Which return pump?

JakeAndAmanda · Jan 30, 2021

I am setting up a 120g tank with a 40g breeder for the sump. I want to put the sump in the basement which would mean I need about 10’ of lift. I found an Iwaki MD-70RLT pump for $100 on fb marketplace but don’t really want 350w going 24hrs a day forever. It’s an option but not my first choice. Does anyone have a suggestion that I won’t have to take a second mortgage out to afford? I have no demands as far as ac or dc but the obvious dc benefits wouldn’t hurt. Thanks in advance.

laverda · Jan 31, 2021

I don't have a specific recommendation, just some observations. Most in expensive DC pumps will not handle that head height. External AC pumps are much better suited generally. You should be able to find something suitable that uses half as many watts depending on the flow you want. I would look for a pump that is rated for 1200gph at 10 ft of head. Then you will end up with actual flow of 900-1000 gph depending on your plumbing and actual pump. My experience in the amp/watts and flow ratings tend to be more realistic on AC pumps
Careful design of your plumbing will help a lot. Out put to match you pump, as few fittings as possible/practical, use superflex or ultraflex pvc to avoid 45&90 degree bends as much as possible. Ideally one true union ball valve to make pump maintenance easy and just one 45or90 at the tank bulkhead if absolutely needed.

JayLu · Jan 31, 2021

My Pan World 150PS uses about 170 watts. It provides plenty of return flow for my 180 gallon tank on the first floor, with the sump in the basement. It is a great trouble-free pump. But, Iwakia pumps are great too.

ca1ore · Jan 31, 2021

Pumping against that kind of head typically means a pressure rated external AC pump. PanWorld aren’t sold in the US at the moment, but there are plenty in their range that I’m sure you could find used that would work. I’ve also used the PW 150 in the past and it’d work just fine for a 120. PW 100PX might work as well. I’m sure Iwaki have similar sized pumps with comparable power consumption.

JayLu · Jan 31, 2021

Yes. The Pan World 100PX would probably work fine for a 120 gallon tank. (Not the PX-X.) It only uses about 120 watts. So, even better! I think Premium Aquatics may have them in stock.

JakeAndAmanda · Jan 31, 2021

Current USA eFlux DC Flow Pump with Flow Control | 1050 GPH, 1900 GPH & 3170 GPH Flow Ranges Available | Ultra Quiet, Submersible or External Installation | Safe for Saltwater & Freshwater Systems What do you think about this one? Some dude here in the marketplace has one for $150

Anubisxii · Jan 31, 2021

JakeAndAmanda said:
Current USA eFlux DC Flow Pump with Flow Control | 1050 GPH, 1900 GPH & 3170 GPH Flow Ranges Available | Ultra Quiet, Submersible or External Installation | Safe for Saltwater & Freshwater Systems What do you think about this one? Some dude here in the marketplace has one for $150

I has one of these died after 4 months. I bought an apex cor to replace. Every eflux product ive had has had an issue within the 1st 6 months. Both pump and power heads needed to be replaced.

JakeAndAmanda · Jan 31, 2021

Good enough warning for me lol thanks I’ll stay away from it

JakeAndAmanda · Feb 1, 2021

https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/fs-return-pumps-gyre-and-ato.795320/ how about this reef octopus water blaster?

JaaxReef · Feb 1, 2021

I think the larger Maxspect Jump pumps could easily handle the head pressure. The 12k can do 16ft. The price isn’t bad at all and I’ve heard good things from people who have them. Quiet and reliable.

JakeAndAmanda · Feb 1, 2021

JaaxReef said:
I think the larger Maxspect Jump pumps could easily handle the head pressure. The 12k can do 16ft. The price isn’t bad at all and I’ve heard good things from people who have them. Quiet and reliable.

Seems like a solid option, the only reviews I can find for it are on marine depot, one bad review saying it quit after 12 days. Can’t seem to find any warranty info for it anywhere either.

JaaxReef · Feb 1, 2021

JakeAndAmanda said:
Seems like a solid option, the only reviews I can find for it are on marine depot, one bad review saying it quit after 12 days. Can’t seem to find any warranty info for it anywhere either.

Looks like one year from date of purchase. https://www.coralvue.com/maxspect-jump-dc-water-pumps

I’ve had decent experience with Coralvue products and service responses before with my Icecap 3k Gyre that is still running somehow 5 years later.

JakeAndAmanda · Feb 1, 2021

I think I’m just going to do it. My only other question would be how long are the controller wires? Would be nice to have the controller up inside the stand for the feed mode and in case of any oh s*** moments. Would only need to be 6’ to be ideal.

JaaxReef · Feb 1, 2021

JakeAndAmanda said:
I think I’m just going to do it. My only other question would be how long are the controller wires? Would be nice to have the controller up inside the stand for the feed mode and in case of any oh s*** moments. Would only need to be 6’ to be ideal.

That would be nice... I bet you can email Coralvue and they’ll get back to you within a day or two.