Submersible pump for return

[impreza]

I am looking for a suitable submersible pump for my return. I need anywhere from about 800-1200gph+ at 4' head. I don't know much about pumps, so all that I have heard about are the Mag-Drive pumps. Currently considering a MAG12. Are there better pumps for the money? I see that QuietOne makes a suitable pump but is cheaper. Is this a better pump? What about the OceanRunner pumps? Any suggestions are welcomed! I am just look for the best value instead of just buying a MAG12 without doing my research.

Thanks in advance!

 

[theatrus]

An Eheim 1260 or 1262 would be another option. Much quieter than Mag drives, and good reputation.

 

[scottwhitson]

Mag drive pumps are VERY loud but a durable pump. I switched mine out for an Eheim and am liking that alot better.

 

[oct2274]

eheim 1262, don't get a mag. If you can't afford a eheim, than get an ocean runner.

 

[lsir]

I've used a mag12 for return for 10 month now. No problems. Don't know if I'm just lucky here but mine is pretty quite. With my stand door close it is silent.

 

[bassettmd]

Check into quietone pumps... very cheap, quiet, and reliable from my experience.

 

[AZDesertRat]

OceanRunner pumps are more efficient than Eheims at half the initial cost. They use less wattage per gallon of water pumped meaning they produce less heat, they will pump against just as much head and are just as quiet.

I had a bad experience with a Quiet One 4000 which was a great pump up until that time. It shorted out heating my tank to the point the chiller ran non stop for a day or two until I caught it. Its wierd since the pump was still running but was so hot you could not touch it. It also was electrifying the tank so you got a nice tingle when you reached in.

I have owned 5 or 6 Mags in different sizes and every one was noisy in comparison to others pumps. They also create much more heat and use up to twice as much power.

For a pump that is going to run 24/7/365 you want the most efficient pump you can afford.