Return pump plumbing and features

[SeaCreature]

So I thought I had decided on a R.O. varios S6 for a return pump to be used in a Red Sea reefer 250. I do not have the experience or skill to hard plumb so I was doing some research to determine what type fitting/adapter was required to connect to the soft tubing and based on my research I am now second guessing my decision. Reviews regarding the quietness of the pump,ability to connect with an Apex and the energy cost savings were all aspects that led to my initial thought process.
Questions:
1 Because my intent is to use this pump as a return pump and not for flow is the ability to connect to an apex relevant?
2 Is it a big deal that the pump is not pressure rated?
3Are any D.C. Pumps solely return pumps?
4 what adapter would I need?

 

[mfinn]

The RO VarioS pumps are suppose to be awesome pumps. I know a couple friends in my area who use them and have nothing but praise for them.
But on a Red Sea Reefer 250 ( 54 gallons), there is no way you need a VarioS-6. It pumps 1720 gph ( at 0 head)
Save some money and go with a VarioS-2 ( 792 gph ) or VarioS-4. ( 1056 gph)
IMO you really only need 300 gph to be between 5x and 6x tank volume for flow through the sump.
It's my understanding that they come with hose barbs.
You really don't need a pressure rated pump to use as a return pump.

 

[SeaCreature]

Thank you for the response. I will consider the S4. Specs for 250 call for 660 gph. Am I correct in assuming that the ability to link to the apex has no value since I will be using the pump as a return pump.

 

[Heliarc19]

I have a s6 on a 65gal and it is way too powerful, defiantly go with the 2 or 4. I love them and it runs almost completely silent

 

[Heliarc19]

And they are sold as return pumps, I am not sure what fittings you would need but they come with several different adapters and the fittings are standard size i.e. 3/4 or 1" or 1.25

 

[SeaCreature]

Thank you. I m leaning towards the 4.

 

[Idoc]

I have a Varios6 on my 75g tank. It had been so quiet... can't even barely hear a hum noise. It comes with this hose adapter:

Probably best to go with a Varios4 for your setup.

 

[mfinn]

Thank you for the response. I will consider the S4. Specs for 250 call for 660 gph. Am I correct in assuming that the ability to link to the apex has no value since I will be using the pump as a return pump.

Don't worry about the apex feature. It's there if you have a apex, but fine if you don't.
As far as the 660gph, don't be afraid to try a slower flow.
The system isn't going to fail if you don't crank up the flow.

 

[SeaCreature]

Thank you all for the assist.

 

[Big G]

I have a Varios2 on my 90. Works great. Zero noise.