Return pump(s) for new build (36x30x20)
 

Hey all

I am working away on my new build (36x30x20 93g) and wanted to hear everyone thoughts on a return pump(s).

My sump is 26x26x16 (9" water level).

So I am looking for the best bang for my buck. I could go with a single 900GPH Rio Plus 3100 or two 600GPH ones. I wanted to know what other brands would work well and are silent.

Any info would be awesome.

I'm using the fluval sea sp4 on my tank. It's 1800gph and super silent. It uses an askol motor block which is the same motor block that they use in the red dragon pumps. It's around $200. Oh and you can just reduce the flow using a ball valve if it's too much.

Where did you find one? Any local dealers?

I also see that Mag-Drive Utility Pump - Model 18 are on sale. Any thoughts on these? 1800gph as well.

My tank is slightly larger than yours and I use, and am happy with a Quiet One 4000. About 68 bucks at J&L

I went with an Eheim compact 2000 ($99 at J&L) on my 93g 30" cube because my Quiet One was waaaaaaay too noisy. I've yet to find a Quiet One that lives up to its name. This is my first Eheim return pump and I couldn't be happier with it.

Anthony

Ordered mine from pets and ponds

Doesn't reducing flow like that cause back pressure?

Odd. I run 2 4000s in my sump and can't hear either of them. Although, I did just buy a 6000 and it's the loudest pump I've ever heard. Maybe the design has changed?
FWIW, Wayne runs an Ehiem on his and it's dead silent. Another friend runs the same pump, and is pretty loud. I dunno.. :)

The fluvals are awesome, they just run a bit hot, would still recommend!

Loud, overrated IMO

Strange, mine is frikken awesome