Placing a filter sock over the pump intake -- dumb?

[geno]

I have a sump/refugim from LifeReef -- it has 2 overflow tubes that don't allow a for a sock -- they are mounted against the acrylic wall of the sump.

So, I decided to place a sock over the intake of the sump pump -- I took it off after a day or two because I was concerned that restricting the intake might damage the pump over time.

Any thoughts? Is a sock essential?

thanks,
-gene

 

[jade76]

I would NOT restrict the return pump flow with a a filter sock. The appropriate place for a filter sock is on the return pipes that fill your sump....just my opinion.

 

[dannybradley]

Restricting the intake of the pump will cause it to draw more power and generate more heat. This will shorten the pump's life.

 

[acroholic]

I wouldn't say dumb, but that would be a very poor choice!

Use a pre-filter sponge if you use anything, lkekthe one Mag pumps come with, but you have to regularly clean it, otherwise it is like restricting the intake. You can ball valve and restrict the output of a pump all you want, but never restrict the intake