View Full Version : How loud should a Reef Flo Snapper sound?
nightOwl
03/14/2011, 08:57 AM
Hi all I am in the process of tank upgrade and not use to external pumps. I purchased a set up with a used Reef Flo Snapper external pump and while I am pleased with the flow I am getting through my system I am concerned with the noise. Is a new pump fairly quiet or could it be the pump is noisy since it is used?
nightOwl
03/14/2011, 06:45 PM
Anyone?
slief
03/14/2011, 07:08 PM
Noise is a relative term. I find the reeflo pumps to be very quiet. I compare to Iwaki and little giant pumps. Without hearing your pump, its difficult to tell. Try putting some neoprene under the pump itself. Also, if you are using rigid PVC without any flex between the pump and sump, that could also be a source of noise as these pumps do vibrate a bit and that will resonate down the plumbing. If any of your plumbing after the pump is contacting a wall or drywall, that too will cause noise. See if you can isolate the noise. If you have a marginal bearing or something, that too could cause noise. I did have one used reeflo pump make a vibrating noise which ultimately ended in a seal failure. There is a small rubber or plastic seal that that the shaft runs through and can be seen when looking between the motor and the pump head. I have seen those come loose and bounce around on the shaft which also can make some noise but that would be more of a ticking noise.
Noises I would associate with the pump would be the motor hum which is normal. Then you have vibration type noises which are usually caused by the pump being in direct contact with the floor or wood as well as vibration type noises that would be associated with vibration working their way through the plumbing. Those are typically resolved by using some flex PVC and making sure that the plumbing doesnt contact walls, floors, cabinets etc.
nightOwl
03/16/2011, 06:54 AM
slief,
Thanks for the input. I will look into some of the things you suggested below. If possible I will try to get a video with sound as well.
nightOwl
03/31/2011, 07:13 AM
I took the removed impeller, the back plate of the impeller housing, and fan cover off to try to isolate the noise but it is still making an almost grinding/squealing sound. I was in a LFS last weekend and I had to touch a similar pump to see if it was on because it was so silent. The ceramic bearing and rubber plug from the back of the impeller seem to be in great shape. The noise seems to be coming from the body itself :(.
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