Head?

[dicjones]

I'm curious exactly what head means in regards to pumps. Is it the total length of pipe involved or just the distance the water will need to be pushed vertically. Thanks.

 

[BurntOutReefer]

basically back-pressure based on several factors including vertical height="head".....

 

[chemisfun11]

Basically the distance from your pump to the exiting water vertically. If there is too much "head" for your specific pump, the downward force of gravity creates pressure and can prematurely burn out your pump.

For example, I have a sump two feet below my tank, but 4 feet of head. The distance from my pump to my return nozzel is a total of 4 feet. You can use the head loss calc on reef central and most manufacturers will provide specs on head pressure. Hope this helps.