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View Full Version : Equipment advice for new 180g set-up (return pump)


Stickboy97
10/17/2013, 01:05 PM
So I've ordered a new 180g & I'm in the market for a 75g sump. The 180 has dual overflows (with drains & returns in each). I'll be researching and asking plenty of questions about the plumbing, but figure I'll start with the return pump.

What size pump do i need to buy (GPH)? Any suggestions on good pumps that wont break the bank. The 75g tank I have in my office is 5+ yrs old with a cheap ebay special pump that has never failed me (knocks on wood) but I'd like to buy something a little better for this big tank.

I want something that is in sump, adjustable is ok (I can also adjust the flow with the valves in the piping), or what else should I look for?

Thanks!

shaginwagon13
10/17/2013, 01:08 PM
If I were you I would use a Reeflo Dart.

I used the Dart for my 180 and I loved it because it has enough power that you can plumb to your return line your calcium reactor, chiller, return line, UV, etc. and keep the water temperature down.

This is a great thread on how to accomplish this:

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1599945&pp=25&page=16

hkgar
10/17/2013, 01:38 PM
I am using the Mag 12 and running two take offs for GFO and Carbon reactors on my 180 with a 75 gallon sump.

http://www.marinedepot.com/Danner_Mag_Drive_Supreme_12_1200_GPH_Pump_Over_1000_Gallons_Per_Hour_Submersible_Aquarium_Pumps-Danner_Mfg.-DN1119-FIWPSBTO-DN1129-vi.html

TruReef
10/17/2013, 01:51 PM
I'm planning on using a Water Blaster 7000 on my 180g build.

Stickboy97
10/17/2013, 03:42 PM
If I were you I would use a Reeflo Dart.

I used the Dart for my 180 and I loved it because it has enough power that you can plumb to your return line your calcium reactor, chiller, return line, UV, etc. and keep the water temperature down.

This is a great thread on how to accomplish this:

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1599945&pp=25&page=16

Great build thread, WOW thats a pricey pump!

I am using the Mag 12 and running two take offs for GFO and Carbon reactors on my 180 with a 75 gallon sump.

http://www.marinedepot.com/Danner_Mag_Drive_Supreme_12_1200_GPH_Pump_Over_1000_Gallons_Per_Hour_Submersible_Aquarium_Pumps-Danner_Mfg.-DN1119-FIWPSBTO-DN1129-vi.html

Great price, is that enough flow, 1200 gph?

I'm planning on using a Water Blaster 7000 on my 180g build.

Another pricey pump. Wasn't really looking to spend $250-$300 on a pump.

Are there cheaper options?

gone fishin
10/17/2013, 03:47 PM
I run the dart in mine. seems like once you hit the 180 mark things jump up in price quite a bit.

DavidinGA
10/17/2013, 05:30 PM
I run a eheim 1262 on my 210gal and it works great. I prefer slower flow thru my sump and I don't rely on it for flow inside the DT (I have two WP40'S for that pushing almost 8,000gph!)

I also prefer to have dedicated pumps for other things like reactors so I'm able to make the most of my reef angel's ability to control everything.

TruReef
10/18/2013, 04:26 AM
Most of these pump suggestions(internal) are low power/high flow pumps that stay relatively cool. The cheaper pumps will draw more power & run hotter. In the big picture you will spend less $ investing in a better pump from the start.

hobbzz
10/18/2013, 05:07 AM
Laguna max flo. You only need about about 3-5 times display volume going through the sump. I have a 1500 on my 300g. It's silent and only cost $150 shipped. It's the pump that the $700+ red dragon skimmer pumps are made from.

GatorAlum05
10/18/2013, 05:13 AM
slower flow through your sump will help your skimmer work better.

I have a sicce 5.0 but made a manifold for gfo and carbon. I'm guessing I get around 800gph in my 150g tank.

GatorAlum05
10/18/2013, 05:14 AM
forgot to add.My sump is 50 gallons or so.

Stickboy97
10/18/2013, 01:12 PM
Any thoughts on the Quiet One line of pumps? Looking at the 6000 model.

viggen
10/18/2013, 02:44 PM
I fee. You get what you pay for. There is a reason the mag pumps are so cheap... They are made much cheaper and are designed for pond use where noise isn't as much of a concern. I have a mag 5, 7 and 36.

The water blaster pumps are a bit more money but you also get a more efficient pump that makes a lot less noise! It might take years to recoup the added up front expense with a more efficient pump.

With the smallish tank that you have for a sump, I would go with a slower turnover vs faster rate. I think going with something like a dart which does 2-3k gallons a hr would possibly be to much flow for your sump depending on how its setup. Something like a waterblaster 5000 or 7000 or a comparable pump from another manufacturer is all you need. I use the waterblaster 5000 on my 475g.

Stickboy97
10/19/2013, 02:01 PM
Thanks. I think I will look for something in the 1200 - 1500 gph.

Looking at the DC pumps by Jebao. I hear lots of good stuff about their WP pumps (I have 2 WP40's waiting for the 180). Their DC 6000 and 9000 seem very reasonably priced.

hkgar
10/19/2013, 02:18 PM
Some people aren't too impressed wit Jebao

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2340711&highlight=jebao

hobbzz
10/19/2013, 03:19 PM
Jebao would be a risky bet. Personally they're too new for me. Six months or a year without a failure is not long term success.

rishma
10/19/2013, 04:40 PM
Strongly support the comments on low flow through the sump....

Eheim 1260 is a good choice.

target 2-4X tank volume through sump per hour

azjohnny
10/19/2013, 05:43 PM
IMO the best options are

Eheim 1260
Sicce 5
Laguna Max Flo 1500

I have use all 3 and the laguna is my fav, all 3 pumps are quiet and dependable. Install a ball valve at the pump exit to fine tune your flow

( I have mine valved back about 50%)