What's the best return pump for me?

[Stray32]

I am in the process of setting up a new 75 gallon, with 15 gallon sump. I am in the market for the return pump, and I have received varying opinions on what I need.

I heard the Eheim 1260 is a good, quiet pump, but has vibration problems if not secured and uses a lot of electricity.

I have been told that Mag pumps are loud, but also that they would work well for this setup.

What would you guys recommend?

 

[patsfan1130]

I have been very please with Mag over the years. VERY reliable. They can be a little noisy in terms of vibration. I simply put some aquarium safe silicon on the bottom and problem solved. I think a Mag 9.5 would be a good choice.

 

[crvz]

Uh, where did you hear that about the Eheim? I'd say it's probably got a bit less draw (or at least equivalent, no way is it more) than a mag of equivalent power (probably the mag 7), and any pump will vibrate a bit if left poorly secured.

I'd more quickly recommend getting the Eheim 1262 and backing it off with a gate valve a little. this will give you more margin and allow you to redirect water flow for a reactor or two if desired.

 

[AZDesertRat]

Ocean Runner 2500 would be my first choice and Eheim 1260 second. Whoever told you the Eheim uses lots of power and vibrates obviously has never owned one. They do use very slightly more than the Ocean Runner but not much and they are as well balanced as any pump made. Vibration problems are caused by poor plumbing and installation. Always use a short piece of flexible tubing to break up any vibrations and do not stress the pump by hanging gobs of rigid plumbing off of it putting stress on the housing and you will be fine.
I use the OR pumps myself mostly because they cost less than half what an Eheim does and there is that slight electrical advantage which figures in 24/7/365 so total cost of ownership is much less over time.
Mag pumps are horrible heat producers especially in smaller systems, run much louder and are not as energy efficient. I have thrown three of them away recently.

 

[frank2926]

what you heard about Ehiem is just not true. It is one of the preferred pumps in this hobby. It uses a little electricity compared to other pumps. The general consensus on submersible pumps is IMO
Eheim, Ocean Runner, Quiet one. Mag pumps are highly used, but use a lot of electricity and are very loud compared to the above mentioned pumps. With any submersible pump it is a good idea to use flexible pipe or tubing for at least a couple of inches near any connections to the pumps to dampen vibration noise.