Return pump options help...

[fishgate]

I have a 125RR with two Mega-flows. Each has a 1" drain and a 3/4" return. I like the Eheim 1262 due to the great reviews. The return on it is 900gph and it costs around $160. The other option I looked at is the Mag 12 at 1200gph and about the same price. It has threaded adapters where I could use regular plumbing parts. The Eheim has the slip fitting that takes clear tubing.

Can someone comment on what they prefer and why? Something besides these two? Not looking to break the bank on the pump either!

Eheim
Model Power Usage Maximum Head Pressure Maximum Flow Overall Dimensions
1046 5 Watts 3.11 Ft. 80 GPH 4" x 5.8" x 3”
1048 10 Watts 6 Ft. 160 GPH 4.5" x 5.8" x 4.75”
1250 28 Watts 6.5 Ft. 320 GPH 4.75" x 7" x 3.75”
1260 65 Watts 12 Ft. 640 GPH 6.25” x 8.5” x 4.5”
1262 80 Watts 12 Ft. 910 GPH 6.25 x 8.5 x 4.5”

Mag
Model Power Usage Max Head Height Max Flow Rate Outlet/Inlet Overall Dimensions
2 24 Watts 7 Ft. 250GPH 1/2" MPT/FPT 5.0" x 3.8" x 4.2"
3 35 Watts 11Ft. 350 GPH 1/2" MPT/FPT 5.0" x 3.8" x 4.2"
5 45 Watts 11 Ft. 500 GPH 1/2" MPT/FPT 5.0" x 3.8" x 4.2"
7 70 Watts 13 Ft. 700 GPH 1/2" MPT/FPT 5.0" x 3.8" x 4.2"
9.5 93 Watts 14 Ft. 950 GPH 3/4" MPT/FPT 5.0" x 3.0" x 5.5"
12 110 Watts 15 Ft. 1200 GPH 3/4" MPT/FPT 6.4" x 4.5" x 4.6"
18 145 Watts 20 Ft. 1800 GPH 3/4" MPT/FPT 6.4" x 4.5" x 4.6"
24 265 Watts 20 Ft. 2400 GPH 1" MPT/FPT 7.25" x 4" x 5.25"

 

[BHD]

don't buy the Mag. I had Mag3 and Mag18, very noisy.
I have Eheim 1260 and it has been running continuously for 5 years and still very quiet. I built a silicon base for it, not much vibration against glass at all.

 

[fishgate]

don't buy the Mag. I had Mag3 and Mag18, very noisy.
I have Eheim 1260 and it has been running continuously for 5 years and still very quiet. I built a silicon base for it, not much vibration against glass at all.

But will 910gph be enough return flow? This will be going about 5-6 feet up. Not sure what the head-loss on that will be.

 

[BHD]

Try this one:
http://www.marinedepot.com/Eheim_Co...ds_Compact_Pumps-Eheim-EH11036-FIPHCP-vi.html

the Eheim 5000.

My friend has one and it is running his 180 gallons.. quiet and pretty small.