who uses a submersible return pump, and what is it???

[Capt_Cully]

I've only used externals to this point. Under tank, they take up space and make some noise. I don't think I'd use a submersible with a basement sump. But, with new tank plans I'd like to explore the possibilities.

Let me know what you've got.
Are you happy with it?
what would you do different?
Issues-heat? noise? output?

Thanks!

 

[toddmh]

I've only ever used a mag 9.5 submersible pump 120g system with a 40g sump..It really nice for space..

No heat problems or noise in my system,I do have it sitting on the black mesh sponge that came with the pump..

I like this configuration myself..But I can see why people like the outside pumps though.

 

[Capt_Cully]

I'm concerned with vibration and noise. Any issues?

I had a Aqua-C EV120 skimmer when I first started and the Mag 5 rattled and hummed and I hated it. I'm wondering if this is a proprietary thing, or if I got a lemon

 

[Neoz]

Cully I used a Mag18 for my 180 and no issues at all. No noise or vibration. Now I'm using a MAG 9.5 on my 90 gallon and that runs very quiet as well. I'm thinking you got a lemon

 

[Capt_Cully]

I know I melted it when I used it in my ATO and it went dry.

I've done the big elaborate basement sump, and aside from water changes, I feel like it's an obtrusive PITA. I think I'm going back to under the tank with satelite ATO and Kalk. If I can fit the 200DD like I plan, there should be plenty of room for a refugium, and Ca reactor. I LOVE the look of those Octopus Space Savers. Niiiiiiice!

 

[jfl14609]

mark I have used mag pumps forever 7, 9.5, 12, and 18 I even had a 24 for a while. They were great pumps but right now I am using a or 6500 and have not had any problems at all it loves to restart very quiet and much less heat issues than the mag pumps.

 

[jacksonpt]

I know this doesn't answer your question about submersible pumps, but as far as external pumps being noisy... my Velocity T4 is all but silent..nooticeably quieter than my Eheim 1262, which seems to be the benchmark for quiet and reliable smallish pumps.

 

[jacksonpt]

On a side note, I've got a mag 7 (virtually new) and a mag 9.5 (very little use) that I could lend you to try for a month or so.

 

[wetbehindears]

Mag pumps are horrible they are great for water changes and thats about it. In the past year ive had 2 lock up. They are noisy and when they get aged and powered down they have a hard time powering up with out help.

I dont recomend at all

 

[Gravesj1s]

I use a mag 9.5 ,prior to that mag 7.very little if any noise.Its on a 72 gal with about 4 ' head.

 

[johno4]

I have a mag 7 running my skimmer that rattles a little if touching the glass, it can sometimes be annoying. I also run a mag 12 for a return pump that is pretty quiet. I have had no problems with heat or restart.

 

[Dave VG]

I used a mag 9.5 when I had my 90 going never had a problem with noise or starting up after being shut down during water changes. I also use one for my pond filter never had an issue with that one either. Good pumps IMO. I ‘m using a quiet one right now but only because it was cheaper than mags and I’m on a very tight budget. I still have the one for the pond and would have no problem using a mag again for salt.

 

[Conesus_Kid]

Here's another testimonial for Ocean Runner 6500. Lotsa flow, reliable, and pretty quiet.

 

[elFloyd]

Mag 9.5 on my 90 w/ 30g sump for over a year now... no issues, no noise, and heat is not a problem.

 

[NirvanaFan]

I'm a huge fan of Eheim pumps. I've cleaned my 1260 twice in the 3+ years I have had it, and once was a move 2 years ago. It's quiet and runs like a champ.

I'm actually debating about using a 1262 for my breeding setup. I can't decide if I want to use a more powerful pump so I can expand later.

 

[cardiffgiant]

I used a mag 5 and an eheim 1262 and didn't have noise issues with either. I used hard PVC plumbing with both.

 

[Johnny C]

I personally use the Marineland Maxijet Utility pumps and they are both efficient and dead silent. If that wasn't an option, I would have bought an Eheim. I haven't personally used one but they get the best reviews by far. While Mag Drives may be the most common, they certainly aren't the quietest or most efficient. JMO. By the way, great call on the new Octos... I just picked one up for myself!

 

[acdraindrps]

I personally use the Marineland Maxijet Utility pumps and they are both efficient and dead silent. If that wasn't an option, I would have bought an Eheim. I haven't personally used one but they get the best reviews by far. While Mag Drives may be the most common, they certainly aren't the quietest or most efficient. JMO. By the way, great call on the new Octos... I just picked one up for myself!

+1.

I am also seeing a lot of good, cheap products coming from a company called Deep Blue. Their pumps being one of those products.

 

[khaosinc]

I use a couple of mag 18's and a ehime 1262... no issues w/ any of them.

 

[superkat]

both my return pumps (90g and 120g) are internal. Both are mag18's, I believe. I think they are doing a great job. (knock on wood). the 90g sump is under the tank. 120g is sumped to basement. Both my sumps are pretty basic...not too much room for being elaborate. So far...so good.