Mag 9

[ChunksInClemson]

Will a MAG 9 return be good enough for a 90g? I have only heard good things about them. Can someone second that?

 

[shag26272]

yes

 

[Jounior]

I have mag 9.5 on my 75gal dialed back quite a bit. However, I only have one external overflow. If you have an internal or a high flow exteral you should be fine. I would reccomend a gate or ball valve to control eather way.

 

[Fmellish]

Lets see, whatever your flow, (10x or 20x or 30x or whatever), 2-5x should be through your sump with the rest via a closed loop or powerheads. So looking at your range for your sump flow we have the following figures:

90 * 2 = 180GPH
90 * 5 = 450 GPH

So even if you want to pump the max recommended turnover rate, (5x) through your sump, assuming 0 feet of head pressure, the Mag 9 will be too much.

After head pressure it may be a different story, but still you'll need a valve of some kind.

I'd choose a better suited pump and then you'll produce less heat, consume less energy, and not need extra plumbing with valves.

Josh

 

[Fmellish]

And for the record, the Mag pumps get the job done, but they are a lower quality pump. If you can afford it an Eheim like the 1260 will run much much quieter and is much much more efficient.

I started my system with all Mags and have slowly phased them out. Too noisy, not enough pressure at head, too much heat, too much watts per gallon pumped per hour at head.

Josh

 

[Fmellish]

one last thing. If you do decide to get a pump that flows greater than the correct flow, use a gate valve, not a ball valve.

Ball valves seize up over time and they are not precise at all for controlling flow. The slightest change can make a large difference in flow or none at all.

Ball valves are good for on/off control, not reduction control.
Josh

 

[ChunksInClemson]

Well, thanks guys. The reason I am asking is I can get one for 25 bucks. I think thats worth it and btw, noise won't make a difference. Its gonna be in the living room.

And with the money I'm working with (college student) I dont think i can afford an Eheim.

The guy I am getting my tank from used it on his 90g ( the tank i am getting). I guess it worked for him.

 

[sjm817]

I have a 90G, and had a Mag9. Its a good pump, but kind of strong for a 90G. You will want to dial it back. The easiest way is with plumbing size. For full flow, 1.5" plumbing. For less flow, 1". For more restricted, 3/4".