Most reliable external return pump manufactures.

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
Randys

Randys

Polypterus
MFK Member
Nov 3, 2015
486
470
87
Traverse City, Michigan
Who currently makes the most reliable external return pumps?
I'm targeting 2,500-3,000 GPH but am having a hard time getting to that flow rate unless I double up on the pumps. It would be nice to have the redundancy but that would increase the upfront cost and electric bill considerably.
I had planned on an Iwaki but gezzz, I'll need to mortgage my house to buy TWO. LOL
 
I use a hayward pool pump
 
Randys said:
Who currently makes the most reliable external return pumps?
I'm targeting 2,500-3,000 GPH but am having a hard time getting to that flow rate unless I double up on the pumps. It would be nice to have the redundancy but that would increase the upfront cost and electric bill considerably.
I had planned on an Iwaki but gezzz, I'll need to mortgage my house to buy TWO. LOL
Click to expand...

Is pump noise a concern for you? You may get some options are ghp, but they may be noisy. Have you considered DC pumps?
 
DN328 said:
Is pump noise a concern for you? You may get some options are ghp, but they may be noisy. Have you considered DC pumps?
Click to expand...

Pump noise isn't a top concern since the tank will be in my man cave in the basement. Do you have a link for ghp? I've done a little research on DC pumps but I don't think you can beat the reliability of well built external pump.
 
Thanks pacu mom!

It's funny you should mention that because I came to the same conclusion just this morning although I was leaning towards the Dart Gold. That model puts the flow rates and head pressure RIGHT where I wanted them. And an added plus that I wasn't expecting was the low amps they draw. I plugged the wattage into my spreadsheet and found it will save HUNDREDS of dollars a year in electricity usage over other pumps I've been looking at. I feel much better about that because when I first saw what the others would cost to run it sorta put a crimp in my desire to build a large tank.
I'm also glad to hear you've had good luck with the reliability of your Reeflo pump. I read several reviews complaining about impeller and seal issues. I figured I'd just keep extra impellers and seals on hand. I just haven't found any other pump on the market that fits my needs like the Reeflo.
I've been indecisive on whether to use 1-1/2" or 2" diameter drain pipes. Now that I know a flow rate north of 2,500 will be an option I can continue with my tank/overflow design figuring 2" drains.

Thanks again to all that responded!
 
Shop around--the pricing can really vary. I always check Bulk Reef Supply and Marine Depot first for my equipment needs. Surprisingly, Amazon is really good too, for replacement parts and equipment (even UV sterilizer parts). Unfortunately, Reeflo is almost as bad as Nike and their running shoes--a new model is always coming out. I can't even keep up with their different pumps. I have Hammerheads, Barracuda Golds and a Tarpon pump still in their boxes--none of which are being made anymore.

http://www.marinedepot.com/search?Category=FIWP&Brand=MM

http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/pumps-plumbing/external-pumps/reeflo.html



https://www.tbaquatics.com/reeflo/r...dn2Y6e1og3zbxqCuoyeWlqzYJSp1bBXP__RoC3hTw_wcB
 
Randys said:
Pump noise isn't a top concern since the tank will be in my man cave in the basement. Do you have a link for ghp? I've done a little research on DC pumps but I don't think you can beat the reliability of well built external pump.
Click to expand...

It sounds like you have your mind made up on external pump, and it would be hard to speak to reliability of DCs, as it's only anecdotal from me.

I dont have gph with head pressure chart, but have been using waveline 12000 externally for my cls. I use a 10000 ll for my return. They are 3150 and 2800 gph respectively. Again doesn't include head pressure. There are other DC brands out there like deep water, echo marine, even Jebao.

They are all very quiet and good with power consumption. Of course being DC, flow is adjustable.

When I was looking for return pump for my 260g, I was about to pull the trigger on Iwaki, Japan made model. My reefer bro-in-law introduced me to DCs.
 
If you want reliability for the system run two smaller return pumps. If one dies...the system wont and you can take your time replacing it.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
MonsterFishKeepers.com
Top Bottom