Overflow and return pump for sump

[CarolinaVT]

think I finalized my design to maximize the area of my sump without overflowing but am trying to figure out what pump and overflow size to go with.

I'm thinking I don't need too much flow since I have 2 Koralia#3s in my tank. Also, the skimmer section is high because I have a HOB bakpak.

My tank is 55 gal. and my sump is from a 20L gal tank.

Here is what I'm debating:

Eshopp PF-300 (300 gph) overflow with a mag MD5 (310 gph at 4ft) or MD7 (450 gph)

or

Eshopp PF800 (800 gph) overflow with a mag MD9.5 (800 gph at 4 ft) or MD12 (1100 gph)

Any suggestions on design overflows or different pumps would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

 

[CarolinaVT]

Also, I'm really thinking I don't want a mag pump due to the high heat and extra work for maintanance.

 

[UncleJT]

I'd go with the PF800 and a smaller return pump of around 400-500 GPH @ 4'. I'm using an OceanRunner 2500 on a 40G Breeder and I love it. It would likely be a very good pump on your 55 as well.

 

[CarolinaVT]

Thanks uncleJT for the quick response, is it ok to go with a return pump of less flow than your overflow? Does this mean I will never have a full display tank because the return pump can't keep up or is it so small you don't notice it and prevents a flood?

 

[CarolinaVT]

I do like that the OceanRunner 2500 is cheaper than the eheims.

What flow rate would I get at 4ft. from an OceanRunner 2500?

 

[UncleJT]

Overflows are rated to the MAXIMUM they can flow. For example, if your overflow is rated for 800GPH and you try to run 900GPH through it, the overflow box will not be able to handle it and your display tank will flood. Going with less flow is fine and encouraged.

 

[UncleJT]

What flow rate would I get at 4ft. from an OceanRunner 2500?

Best price on the OR2500 at the moment is $55 from Bulk Reef Supply. You'd probably get 400 to 500 GPH @ 4'. I know it's moving a good amount of water on my new 40G Breeder setup. It will be fine for a 55 with a good overflow box on it.

 

[CarolinaVT]

I think I will get the oceanrunner later today, I've been looking for the past two days and it seems to be near or at the top of everyone's list.

 

[AZDesertRat]

I use 4 OR pumps and wouldn't trade them for anything else except possibly an Eheim.

 

[kileysmama]

Have you constructed the sump yet? Im not sure about the baffle placement being much help with bubble control. It seems like flow will cascade over the first one, creating bubbles. I would do the 3rd one the same height as the 1st one. That way you are avoiding the waterfall from the first baffle and the bubbles wont be able to travel all the way down under the 2nd. Does this make any sense?? The only negative I see is the loss of return section volume, but its a minor loss and bubble control is more important IMO.