Sump Return Pump - How Much is Too Much?

[mikeyv]

I am in the process of upgrading my return pump from my sump. I have a 55g reef/fish tank. I am replacing a 750gph return pump with a 1200 gph pump and adding a second overflow box. Is this overkill because it looks somewhat harsh inside the tank, although the corals aren't getting thrashed and the fish don't appear to mind. Besides, I now have a great micro-bubble battle on my hands

 

[t316]

Originally Posted by MikeyV
http:///forum/post/2614835
I am in the process of upgrading my return pump from my sump. I have a 55g reef/fish tank. I am replacing a 750gph return pump with a 1200 gph pump and adding a second overflow box. Is this overkill because it looks somewhat harsh inside the tank, although the corals aren't getting thrashed and the fish don't appear to mind. Besides, I now have a great micro-bubble battle on my hands
I think the more flow the better, but you have some good questions. First, what looks 'harsh' inside the tank. Are you just talking about the appearance of two overflow boxes? And where are the bubbles coming from?
You can disapate some of that "fire hydrant" incoming by adding some splitter ends to the incoming tips so that you are directing the water in various directions.

 

[mr_x]

i think the pump you have is fine
increase the flow inside the tank if you want with powerheads.
i don't think a larger pump will solve the microbubble issue. as a matter of fact, it might increase it.

 

[turningtim]

Sounds to me like to OF's can handle the flow but maybe you're out flowing the sump. With the added flow is there enough time for the bubbles to disapate before being returned to the tank? I mean 1200 is fine for the tank but maybe not the sump. Can you adjust the flow of the pump a bit and see if thats the issue?
HTH
Tim

 

[scsinet]

What you are suffering are common problems had by those who attempt to accomplish their entire flow objective via filtration.
Your filtration system should only have enough water flowing through it to support the equipment. Use powerheads or a closed loop to provide the balance of the flow.

 

[stdreb27]

It all depends on the length of your sump, the effectiveness of your baffling and the flowrate of your pump. Go smaller, a 1200 gph pump will be to much. If you can post pictures of your sump with actual dimentions. Might give somewith with more experience like SCSinet with enough info for a good flow recomendation.