I've got a 110 gallon main tank with a 30 gallon sump. Sump has a few pieces of LR and Caulerpa and Chaeto in it. Main tank has about 200 lbs of LR. I've read conflicting opinions on how much return flow there should be. I've read the higher the flow the better. I've read the slower the flow the better. I've also read the rule of thumb is 3-5x turnover. Is this 3-5x the total water volume of the entire system (140 gallons in this case), or is it just the main tank volume? Do you take into account water displacement from the LR? For example, my system probably only has about 90-100 total gallons of water in it if you take into account the rock.
Return from sump...how much flow?
- Thread starter scowar
- Start date
dougchambers
New member
If it were me, I would look at less turn-over through the sump and focus on a closed loop for the display. Slower flow through your return helps to reduce micro bubbles and system noise.
-Doug
-Doug
I'm looking at the Via Aqua model 3300 or 2600. Should I be measuring the flow rate at max, or at the head? I'm assuming head (which is the distance from the pump outlet to the discharge isn't it?). If so, at a distance of approx 4-5 feet the 3300 would appear to be slightly oversized and the 2600 slightly undersized. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Also, if there is another brand/model anyone would suggest over Via Aqua's i'd love to hear it. Via Aqua's appear to be a very good pump for the price. Eheim's are way more money, as are Mag's.
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