Lifegard Quiet One Pumps

[ReefDoberman]

I am in the process of setting up a 47 column for pipefish and softies and was considering using the Quiet One 3000 as my return pump. Has anyone had experience with these pumps that could help me to make a final decision here? I am considering these pumps because of their low draw on energy, the fact that they should be quiet (this will go in my foyer) and overall price (can get the pump for about $40). I am looking to get about 400 gph through the return and will have roughly 5-6ft of head.

Any feedback is appreciated.

 

[Jade]

Good pumps. Have one on my 75G Silent as can be. Energy and sound were my main reasons for buying as well. You'll love it!!
Never had one problem!
Chris

 

[ReefDoberman]

Thanks Chris - what model do you run? It seems that after the 3000 the next three sizes are of similar price and energy draw so I am thinking maybe it is just the impeller that makes them different?

 

[Jade]

I have a 3000. Not sure of any other model. This is the first Quiet One that I have ever had. I really like it, and would use another one for future tanks.

 

[BIG-G]

I have a 4000HH and it sound like a train! Maybe the 3000 is different or maybe i just got a POS! It pumps alot of water but its way to loud for my living room.

 

[Red_Six]

I have run a Quiet One 4000HH for 3 years now as my return pump. It runs silent and I have had no problems.

 

[romanr]

The two I had (6000 and 3000) were very prone to calcium buildup on the ceramic shafts which would make them seize up after about 3 months and required a vinegar soak. Have not had that problem with the Mag pumps using the same maintenance schedule. Other than that I had no problems with them.

 

[ricde]

I've had a QO 3000 and a QO 4000 (not the HH). Both lasted about 4 months each. I believe they don't like restricting their flow with a ball valve or head pressure. Both of mine developed a bad vibration and became very noisy after about three months. They still start now but the racket's too much for me.

I went with an oceanunner 2500 (ordered a 3500 but that pump was HUGE, ended up exchanging it for the 2500). It puts out the roughly the same GPH at head as the QO 3000 and is absolutely silent.

 

[Duff Man]

I have a QO 4000 and I agree with romanr, the calcium builds up pretty quickly. It comtinues to run, but if the power goes out, I have to give it a vinegar soak. As far as the noise goes, I had mine external for a while. It wasn't silent, but it wasnt like some I have heard either. I have since put it in mys sump and you can't hear it at all.

 

[ReefDoberman]

I was not aware of the calcium build up issues. I guess I will take the pump apart once a month a do a vinegar soak. I am hoping this pump turns out to be what I need because on paper it appears to be perfect...

Is everyone using these for their return pump?

 

[Duff Man]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14484307#post14484307 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by sfauth
Is everyone using these for their return pump?

I am.

 

[devgru]

q1 9000 here,lasted about 4mos.went with a mag and im glad its in a cabinet as its noisy(even have it on a rubber pad)

my boss has had a 4000 for 5yrs w/o a problem