To repair or replace?

Treefer32 · Dec 6, 2020

I have two MP40s that are around 7 years old. Only used for three years. They were stored in cold storage (below zero temps in the winter) for 2-3 winters. I got new wet sides just to start off fresh on my 350 gallon display. They worked for about a year on the new display then one faulted and no matter what I did I couldn't get it to run again, just red blinking light. Then about 2 months later the other one did it. In the meantime I had bought two new MP40s to run as they died. So, I've got 2 MP40s and 2 Skimz S18s on my 350 gallon display. around 20k gph if all are running at max performance.

I'd rather have more powerheads running at lower speeds than fewer at higher speeds. I think 6 powerheads would be perfect. Tank is 6 feet long and 3 feet deep and 31" tall.

I've talked to Ecotech support and they said I could send in (Me paying shipping) and they could repair, up to $150 each if repairable with no guarantee they keep running. repaired.

Am I better off getting two new Mp40s and throwing these two away. or Just say screw it and get a couple more Skimz S18s or a Gyre or would you take the chance repair two older Mp40 units?

And yes cost matters! I'm giving up more corals and fish and/or other equipment like a QT or a second dream nano tank for a couple powerheads if I go with two new MP40s.

Rp8 · Dec 6, 2020

I would get 2 new ones

jda · Dec 6, 2020

IMO, they are not large enough for a 350g tank anyway. I would sell them for parts and get a pair of Tunze 6255s or MP60s. I guess if you want to buy 6, then that can work, but that is a lot of pumps.

Gyres move a lot of water, but it is very static and I don't like it. They are not expensive, though.

Treefer32 · Dec 10, 2020

I discovered that my cheap Skimz S18 died tonight. Not sure how long it was dead. I think I'm going to replace it with an MP60. Why are these pumps so fricken expensive?

I'd have 1 MP60 - rated at 7500 gph, 1 more operational skimz S18 rated at 4800 gph, and two MP40s rated at 5000 gph. Plus my return rated at 2500 gph = 25k circulation. One more MP60 would probably give the whole tank the circulation I need.

jda · Dec 10, 2020

They are expensive because you will pay it.

Get a Tunze 6255 if you want to move the same water for less. I have had both and the tunze moves a bit more water, IMO, but the GPH readings are mostly BS for all of these flow pumps. MP60 or Tunze 6255 both move a LOT of water.