Pump flow and overhead pressure for 55 gallon tank

[Scottie]

Hi I am new to reefing and about to set up my first tank. I ordered a 45 gallon high with a 20 gallon long breeder sump I am planning on filling approx 7 inches so I think my total tank volume will be around 55 or 56 gallons. I reccently ordered two synccra silent 1.5 model pump (350 gph) to plump parallel with 3/4 pvc using two right angle connects, wye check valves and a bit of tubing. Total piping will be 40 inches approx. The head pressure limit for these pumps is 6 ft. I talked to my lfs guy and he seems to think this won't be enough flow for the tank. I will be running a bean animal overflow at 1" drain (1000 gph) and I also will have two turbelle nano (750 gph) in the tank for waves. I was eager to hear the community's feedback if this set up should work. I also was wondering if flow (gph) increases and if so by how much, if two pumps are running parallel? I have heard mixed ideas on how fast flow should be anywhere from 5 to 10 times total volume. I am planning on having a skimmer - the basic reef octopus 4 " model and a small refugium so I would like the contact time in the sump to be efficient. The lfs guy said to go with 2 1000 gph pumps. Is this correct?

 

[RJinPV]

Welcome too R2R!

I agree with your LFS. I have a 55 gal display tank with a sump and I think you need more flow. I run SICCE 3.0 for my return which is about the same as two 1.5's but you have to look at the curve of flow versus head pressure. I have always wanted to have a higher flow return than I have. I especially think the Turbelle nanos are too small. You be disappointed in the flow they generate. I started with two nanos, then replaced with a GYRE 130 combined with a Tunze 6055. Detritus still seem to accumulate so now I added two AI Nero 5's (which are overkill) to the 6055.

 

[Scottie]

Welcome too R2R!

I agree with your LFS. I have a 55 gal display tank with a sump and I think you need more flow. I run SICCE 3.0 for my return which is about the same as two 1.5's but you have to look at the curve of flow versus head pressure. I have always wanted to have a higher flow return than I have. I especially think the Turbelle nanos are too small. You be disappointed in the flow they generate. I started with two nanos, then replaced with a GYRE 130 combined with a Tunze 6055. Detritus still seem to accumulate so now I added two AI Nero 5's (which are overkill) to the 6055.

Thanks for your knowledge and experience on this subject. I was planning on working up to lps and maybe the montie sps but I wanted to start with softies. It seems apparent that I will need to get better return pumps, I will save one of the 1.5's for the chiller and one for backup, and maybe go for two 3.0's. As far as the nanos, will they be enough for softies? If I am diligent about sand cleaning- giving me more time to save up. Or do you suggest returning them and trying for a more powerful option?

 

[RJinPV]

If you can exchange for something with higher flow then I would. If you can’t then they’ll probably be OK for softies only. Eventually you’ll probably get better ones later and spend the money anyway