Remote sump room..what return pump?

Mshort03 · Feb 11, 2019

Looking for suggestions on return pump for my build.
( https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/martys-8-300g-sump-room-build-750g-system.551827/ )
The return will be 1.5 inch piping, with about 15-20 horizontal feet and ~7 vertical. Not exactly sure on number of elbows/fittings but will keep it minimal as possible. I've been suggested a vector L1 but I have also looking into the red dragon 230watt and the abyzz a200...just trying to justify that kind of price tag. Let me hear your thoughts

JMetaxas · Feb 12, 2019

You should run a Reeflo Hammerhead for that head pressure and tank size.

Mshort03 · Feb 12, 2019

JMetaxas said:
You should run a Reeflo Hammerhead for that head pressure and tank size.

that was a consideration however I'd really prefer to run internal pump if possible

ca1ore · Feb 12, 2019

Vectra is not all that good against head pressure. What net flow you are aiming for? Only you can decide if the entry fee for a RD or Abyzz is worthwhile. I believe both have pressure mods available, but you should make sure. Although I’m not personally a fan of Jebao, their largest model might work (for a while lol). Most pressure rated pumps are externals unfortunately. You could look at the fluval SP-6, though that may not deliver the flow you need, but it is internal. Otherwise the really good pressure pumps are externals, PanWorld or Iwaki. I use the PW250 against 14’ of net pressure for my 450.

fishyguy7 · Feb 12, 2019

If you want an internal I would recommend a abyzz pump. Granted you’ll have to take out a loan but I don’t think there is a better pump on the market

Mshort03 · Feb 12, 2019

This is what I'm coming to find. I reallllyy didnt want to go external but I may have to. The abyzz is possible in budget but would eat rest of it. I'd just hate to buy external then switch to abyzz in a yearyear but I think that can be ran external as well. Original plan was a jaebo 18000 till upgrading to abyzz.. I'd like ability to achieve 3k at tank but will prob only run 1500-2k most of time..

rushbattle · Feb 12, 2019

Run two of the same pumps in series. So the output of one feeding another. It doesn’t increase flow at zero head pressure, but doubles the output pressure capability so should drive head twice as well.

Mshort03 · Feb 12, 2019

rushbattle said:
Run two of the same pumps in series. So the output of one feeding another. It doesn’t increase flow at zero head pressure, but doubles the output pressure capability so should drive head twice as well.

2 L1 is almost a G....at that point Id pony up extra 800 for abyzz... That pump seems to fit all my needs but the price tag is disgusting. rd3 is a bit less at ~1400

KSReef · Feb 12, 2019

With that head pressure I would run an external reeflo. You can dial back the output which also lowers the amount wattage used. I use two pumps just in case one fails and need to be resealed. I have to do that at least two times. $400-$500 x 2

fishyguy7 · Feb 13, 2019

If you get a reeflo I’d suggest getting a silicone carbide seal for it. They cost 30-40 bucks and I have had one running none stop for 16 months and zero signs of salt creep. The stock seals are not really up to par if you ask me. They did recently change to a newer design on the seal but don’t know if they are any better

Mshort03 · Feb 13, 2019

fishyguy7 said:
If you get a reeflo I’d suggest getting a silicone carbide seal for it. They cost 30-40 bucks and I have had one running none stop for 16 months and zero signs of salt creep. The stock seals are not really up to par if you ask me. They did recently change to a newer design on the seal but don’t know if they are any better

This is what worries me with external is leaks. Internal doesnt have that issue. Pump stips working everyrhing is still in tanks. I don't want to go out of town for a week and then have it leak and I'm screwed.. then again idk how bad these "leaks" get I just hear constant complaints about reeflo and seals.

ca1ore · Feb 13, 2019

The only reason to go reeflo is if you need flow north of 1,800. If you can live with less than that then the big pan world or iwaki are far better and more reliable pumps. If you do need more flow, I’d choose dolphin over reeflo.

Mshort03 · Feb 13, 2019

ca1ore said:
The only reason to go reeflo is if you need flow north of 1,800. If you can live with less than that then the big pan world or iwaki are far better and more reliable pumps. If you do need more flow, I’d choose dolphin over reeflo.

I Wanted ability to have 10x at tank if possible which would be ~3000. But maybe I should just tone down my expectations since 3-5x is plenty...

fishyguy7 · Feb 13, 2019

Go bigger and put a manifold on it. Then plump anything you need off that. This is exactly how I have my setup done. Like I said I would replace the seal with the one I mentioned. The silicone carbide seals are designed water that is abrasive.

Mshort03 · Feb 13, 2019

fishyguy7 said:
Go bigger and put a manifold on it. Then plump anything you need off that. This is exactly how I have my setup done. Like I said I would replace the seal with the one I mentioned. The silicone carbide seals are designed water that is abrasive.

Where did you get this seal in case I decide to get this pump?
This pump will be return only I have a separate pump for manifold/skimmer

Snoopy 67 · Feb 13, 2019

Have you looked into a Red Dragon?

Mshort03 · Feb 13, 2019

Snoopy 67 said:
Have you looked into a Red Dragon?

I have looked that was the "rd3" I was referring to. Its about 1400. Abyzz is 1800. Hammerhead is 400 but has seal issues and is external. Vectra L1 is 400 and I've personally seen it used on two separate basement sumo setups and push fine but the online reviews have me worried (prob dumb) so idk. Internal is my #1 choice but without ponying up over a G idk if I'll get that.