External pumps? -QUIET!?

[mitchelliii]

I searched but only found a WTB for a quiet external pump. So - who has a good solution for one? Need it to be 1400 gal+ for a closed loop.

Also - does anyone have good tips on making a cabinet quiet? Right now, I have the sump and pumps on a plastic yoga type mat. So far it works ok, and cuts some vibration and the pumps and bio-balls all report a zen-like feeling. All tips welcome. Also - if I start posting/ranting too often here, someone slap me with a hose. Until then - thanks for all of the help. I love this forum - even if my wife does view it as competition right now.

 

[jessezm]

The Reeflo Darts are really quiet and great for a closed loop. They move tons of water, too. Usually, the only noise is the vibration if it's hard-plumbed, which can be overcome with a short run of Spa-flex or vinyl tubing to absorb the vibration. Ampmasters are supposed to be dead-silent, too, though I don't see as many rave reviews for those as I do the reeflos.

 

[cameron]

And the Dart is very cheap for what you get. Casper is selling a NIB cheaper than you can buy new as well.

Put some non-reactive rubber (mousepad with no dyes) under any pumps in your sump. Also, do you hear any water noise coming from the returns or the skimmer?

 

[flipturn88]

I ran a Sequence Dart on my 100 gal system and it was very quiet (although I recognize that's a subjective description) - much more so than my skimmer. You can put a foam pad of sorts to combat the vibrations on louder pumps, which can sometimes significantly reduce noise. I also like how Sequence Darts don't overheat or send the heat they generate into the tank.

 

[tsciarini]

When I heard Kayla's Sequence Dart, I was pissed that I bought something different. They are extreemly quiet for a pump that moves that much water.
+1 on the Sequence Dart.

Another one with a good reputation are the Velosity line pumps... although I think they've since changed names AGAIN and I'm not sure who's label is on them these days.

 

[theplatypus]

Blueline pumps are quiet as well. YOu can line the inside of your stand with some of the 1/2" foam insulation to cut back on some of the sound.

 

[justonemoretank]

The Dart pumps are really awesome! Super quiet and very little to zero added heat from what I can tell. I love mine.
I have a PanWorld pump (just like a Blueline) and it is really quiet as well.
The Velocity pumps are quiet. I have seen one running at two different LFSs and was impressed. However I have been told that they add substantial amounts of heat to the tank!!! I would suggest you look into that before purchasing a Velocity if that is what you decide.