return pump for 40B

[jdavid]

What pump should I get for return on a 40breeder with a 20 long sump? The top edge of the tank sits about 47" off the floor

Basically I need to know what the minimum requirements are, but if you have a good recommendation on a specific pump lets hear it.

If you have one you are trying to get rid of, shoot PM.

 

[heathlindner25]

I have a mag 7

 

[jdavid]

the only problem that I have with mag pumps is that they have no cover over the intake!

Edit: I guess I could just fit a strainer on it though.

 

[porpoiseaquatics]

JDavid....you'll want somewhere between 5 and 6 times total volume as the return flow....so let's assume with displacement and such that your 60g available volume (if everything was full) is really probably 40g (sump half full and 10g displacement of live rock/sand)...then you really only need 200-250 gph at 4' head. Personally, I'd go with a Quiet One for that application. Less heat load and lower power usage. While the QO 1200 would do it, I'd opt for the QO2200 at a minimum. That way you could build a manifold and power everything (reactors, UV, etc) from one pump.

 

[jdavid]

Thanks Jeff. I see your point but I think I am going to go with the 1200. It's cheap and if I need to upgrade later I won't mind having it laying around. I don't have a reactor or UV sterilizer on my frag tank anyway. In the event that I convert it to full reef I will probably do what you are suggesting so thanks for the idea