pump output

[esoxlucius]

I am aware that a pumps actual output in litres/hr will, in reality, be nothing like the actual output that the manufacturer states. The height it has to pump water, length of piping and elbows come into play, i understand that. My pump has a stated max litres per hour of 4500 litres. It pumps up to a max height of about 5 ft on my setup, the length of piping isn't that long (maybe 8 ft), and there are only 2 elbows, i've kept it as simple as possible.
Imagine my surprise when i tested the turnover earlier at only 720 litres/hr!!! Is this deficit in volume normal or must i just have a crap pump (its a soboWP6000). Pipes aren't clogged, they're cleaned regularly as is the pump itself. Return piping is 3/4 inch (about 4 ft of flexpipe and 4 ft of rigid with 2 elbows).

 

[Lepisosteus]

that's an 1100gph pump with a 5' head pumping around 200 gallons per hour which does seem a little low. Maybe the piping is to big for it?

 

[joe jaskot]

A better quality pump such as the Supreme Mag 12 pump (1200 gph) (4542 liters per hour) at 5 feet would pump around 800 gph (3028 litres/hr). Deducting for the resistance in the run and the elbows would still yield a flow >700 gph (2650 litres/hr). Sorry to say your pump is crap.

 

[thebiggerthebetter]

I am not finding an output-versus-head chart for this pump which should be available from the manufacturer http://www.newsobo.com/en/displayproduct.html?proID=1109737 You need to find one and then you will know your answer.

I do note that the pump has a rather small max head of only 4 meters = 13' so at 5' of rise plus the piping, that may be ~6'-7' of head, that is half of the max head of the pump. It might be not surprising that the flow = output decreases so much but the chart is needed.

In pumps it is important to remember that some pumps are made for the max head, others for max flow, and yet others for something in between.

Some pumps have a variable flow.

Is your measurement and math correct?

 

[esoxlucius]

The large fish store where i bought my set up is owned by a chinese lady. She imports her tanks from a place in china called "five star aquarium equipment". I've looked at them on line, they're quite big and export all over the world. The pump came with the tank (also chinese surprise surprise). I've had no problems whatsoever up until doing some tests and realising this particular model of pump just isn't up to the job. It's not a problem getting a better pump. Thanks guys.

 

[Ihsnshaik]

The large fish store where i bought my set up is owned by a chinese lady. She imports her tanks from a place in china called "five star aquarium equipment". I've looked at them on line, they're quite big and export all over the world. The pump came with the tank (also chinese surprise surprise). I've had no problems whatsoever up until doing some tests and realising this particular model of pump just isn't up to the job. It's not a problem getting a better pump. Thanks guys.

A failed pump is bad. Get a reputable brand that will last you a decade. If your pump fails and your not home they fish can potentally die. Even if your home its hard to say if the pump is working or not depending on noise level.

I forgot to plug in my pump for a day after water change and couldn't tell. I always run sponge filers so my fish were fine.

 

[esoxlucius]

There are that many pumps out there its mindboggling. Which do you consider the best, the fixed rate or variable speed models?

 

[thebiggerthebetter]

There are that many pumps out there its mindboggling. Which do you consider the best, the fixed rate or variable speed models?

I'd send you to Ted at PondUSA https://www.pondusa.com/ He has been one of the greatest helpers to me when it comes to pump choosing. He is highly knowledgeable, patient, considerate, will explain all and answer all questions and help you pick the right pump for your need.

They sell many brands and Ted knows all their differences. I'd use him to cut through the fog.