Interna/external pump question

[beester15]

Hey guys, Been out of the reef hobby for a while (almost 10 years-wow does time fly). Just curious if most of you use an internal pump for your sump/fuge or do you perfer an external pump? And if you care, please share what kind of pump you use.

I am currently trying to decide between an external pump.

 

[cet98]

I think the choice has a lot to do with the overall system size (display and sump) and available space. I personally do not keep large systems (all well below 100 gals) and typically have a limited amount of space for my equipment so I always use an internal Eheim Universal pump.

 

[bpcardona]

I have two Reeflo snapper/dart hybrids. One is for the display circulation and the other runs my manifold. What size are you building?

 

[beester15]

I got a 5 foot long 150 (5x2x2). Got a deal on an aqueon proflex4. The tank is plumbed to handle 2000 gph turnover through the overflows, so I am debating what kind of pump I should use. I have a little giant pump that will do 750 gph but might want something that can push more water. The sump is also not drilled, so if I went external, I would have to drill it...

 

[TellyFish]

Are you confident drilling the sump?

I wouldn't hesitate, but I prefer external pumps and rigid plumbing. I run the Reeflo pumps and they are fantastic with low power draw for the amount of flow.

 

[beester15]

I drilled a few sumps in my day. I prefer soft plumbing things...this is due to me always changing my mind..lol

 

[beester15]

The smallest reeflo moves too much gph for my needs...

 

[bpcardona]

The smallest reeflo moves too much gph for my needs...

Stay away from Reeflo's blowhole style pumps. I have blown up 5 in 2 years. Granted they have replaced them every time, and shown great CS. That is why I will continue to buy their products, just not that one.

 

[TellyFish]

I would look at Iwaki/Panworld pumps if you need lower flow.

Also keep in mind you can bleed off the extra flow from a higher flow pump back into your sump.

 

[dja1980]

The smallest reeflo moves too much gph for my needs...

Have you done the head-loss calculation to see how much gph the Reeflo would actually be moving in your setup? It will likely be considerably less than the max output you see advertised unless you are using as closed loop... since these pumps aren't rated for pressure. Keep in mind that you can dial down the Reeflos... and they'll actually draw less electricity. There are definitely advantages and disadvantages to using Direct Drive style pumps (ReeFlo) compared to Mag Drive style pumps (Iwaki, Panworld, etc... )

I'm using 2 ReeFlo Darts... 1 for sump return, and 1 for closed loop.

 

[beester15]

yeah, I have calculated the head loss. I also came up with some rough numbers when "Teeing" off the return line. Still too much water movement for what I am doing. I don't need 2000 or even 1500gpm flow.

I am thinking this set up for a Freshwater Stingray tank, but using all my reef equipment just incase I end up going with a FOWLR tank.

 

[aaronpentz]

I have a waveline dc pump. Honestly one of the best pumps I've ever owned. I cant here this thing run. The water in my sump makes more noise. It's adjustable flow with very low power requirements. I have the second gen and isn't compatible with an apex like the first gens / jaebo pumps are but I honestly don't mind much. It soft starts from a power loss so it isn't spraying water all over the place until your loc line is fully submerged. I also have plans to build a 24 vdc power bank (more efficient then a UPS). This will power the return and my vortechs. I could even run my radion from it.

 

[steri]

I use an internal pump. Mag 12. Thing is on beast mode!