need help sizing up a new sump pump

[Frogmanx82]

I'm debating between the Sicce Syncra 3.0 or 3.5 and the fluval sp2 or sp4. Also considering the Vectra S1.

I'm looking to replace a Jebao DCT 4000 running wide open that is having some reliability issues. I like DC and if it takes spending for a Vectra I'd do it if they are any more reliable. I want quiet but need a pump to work when I'm out of town.

I have a 90 gallon tank and I'm guessing I need about 600 gph at 4 feet head.

Thanks

 

[JUNBUG361]

Check royal exclusives Red Dragon pumps or simplicity pumps

 

[Frogmanx82]

I guess what I need to know is if people are running either the sicce or fluval pumps on a 90 gallon, and assuming the normal head height with a pump underneath the tank, which model did you go with and is it a good flow rate.

For Fluval it seems I really need something between the sp2 and sp4 but they don't make a sp3. Sicce is odd in that the syncra 3.0 seems to have more flow at 4 feet than the 3.5

Of course the Vectra is adjustable and I assume the S1 would be plenty for me. Its just triple the price and a DC pump which I'm still not clear on how reliable it really is vs the AC pumps above.

 

[RobZilla04]

IME all of these pumps are made with the same source internal parts. If it were me I'd upgrade to the latest Jebao DC model. I've run my 9000 on a 90g for 2+ years with 100% reliability. Cleaned only once a year.

I know it's not what you are looking for brand wise, but just keep in mind my opening line.

 

[mcgyvr]

IBTORODPR
(In before the outy rant on DC pump reliability)

 

[Frogmanx82]

Now I'm looking at the tunze 1073 line. Thoughts on it?

 

[Vinny Kreyling]

Stay away from the Vectras, too many problems including heat transfer & failures.
Fluval's are one of the most reliable pumps & a valve on the return side will give you control over the flow.

 

[HBtank]

If you need an affordable pump that you can be comfortable with while out of town look at a proven AC motor; the Fluval was a good start.

 

[Bono]

I had a Tunze return on a 90 gallon for about 2 years with zero problems. I think it was a 1072 but its hard to recall as it was several years ago.

 

[Frogmanx82]

I'm leaning hard on the getting the tunze 1073.05, I haven't heard anything but good on them.

 

[HBtank]

Tunze rarely puts out a product that is not reliable, I buy Tunze with confidence when I do; I guess these get less attention (as DC return pumps) since they are relatively small and probably developed originally for their skimmer lines.

Also, since you had mentioned a goal of 600 GPH, just be aware that it will probably be 500 GPH with head at max power.

 

[Frogmanx82]

Also, since you had mentioned a goal of 600 GPH, just be aware that it will probably be 500 GPH with head at max power.

Thanks for that. I went with the 1073.06 for a little more power in case I need it. I just couldn't decide between the fluval sp2 or sp4, neither seemed right and I'm not spending on power just to valve it down.

 

[HBtank]

Yeah I just installed an overpowered DC pump, nice to have the ability to turn it up (if your drain can match it), threw on a sock and got my tank to 20x turnover and blasted the rocks. I’ll be taking advantage of that periodically. But normally I’ll be at like 30%, being efficient and hopefully less wear/tear on the pump.

 

[drtrash]

Why 6? Have not heard much was going to suggest a sicce 4. I have the.04 impellar lasted about 5 yrs great pump, if i found a deal on a 6 would go that route for 100 gal system

 

[Frogmanx82]

Well I got the 1073.06 and honesty I didn't realize that its completely different than the .05 which is a DC pump. The .06 is an AC pump. Oh well, its probably that much more reliable and while a bit noisier than a DC, its well within acceptable and supposedly it will get quieter after 2 weeks of operation.

I was leaning a bit toward AC anyway just because reliability trumps the little bit less noise though I did like the idea of being able to turn down the wattage. At least the .06 has a built in adjustment on the intake to allow for flow control without having to valve it on the pressure side.