Please help me find a Vectra M2 alternative

[Miami Reef]

My tank uses 2 Vectra M2 pumps.

They keep breaking and need to be sent to repairs 1-2x per month (not exaggerating) .

I hate having one return pump running while the 2nd is being repaired because I have to adjust the overflow and retune the system, so I bought a 3rd Vectra M2 pump as a backup for the backup.

You guys won’t believe that I’m sending and receiving return pumps 1-2x per month.

I feel like a juggling monkey. I hate this.

Last week, my return pump broke again, so I sent it for repair. Now another return pump that just came back from repair also got the same issue!

The pump just stops working. I saw the downfall myself.

I’m so done. The only reason I haven’t changed it is because I’m not sure how I can find a return pump that will fit my plumbing. I don’t want to redo or replumb things. Frankly, I don’t know which return male to fit the female threads from the Vectra M2.


I really hope someone can help me. I don’t care if it’s AC or DC. I just want a simple return pump that can push water and not break every month.

 

[piranhaman00]

Jebao is better in every way. Sold my Ecotech and moved to all Jebao return after initially trying them. I have 2 DCP 8000 that have been running at 100% for 3 years straight now without issue

 

[Miami Reef]

Jebao is better in every way. Sold my Ecotech and moved to all Jebao return after initially trying them. I have 2 DCP 8000 that have been running at 100% for 3 years straight now without issue

I am crazy for my Jebao powerheads. They are amazing.

I just don’t know how to make the switch for return pumps (since my plumbing is all set). Will it fit my plumbing? What should I expect to make this switch.

 

[Miami Reef]

Just ignore the check valves. They are only there for peace of mind. My tank has siphon breaks on the top, and my sump can hold the water.

 

[Miami Reef]

I have 2 DCP 8000

Just ordered. It will be here tomorrow. I think it will fit without needing to make any adjustments.

 

[Miami Reef]

Jebao is better in every way. Sold my Ecotech and moved to all Jebao return after initially trying them. I have 2 DCP 8000 that have been running at 100% for 3 years straight now without issue

Hi. The Jebao punp didn’t fit the same threading that my echotechs used. :(

 

[tsharpe291]

I had the same issue with vectra l2, went with reef octopus water blaster. just a dumb ac
pump that works.

 

[RedReefer]

Sicce AC return pump. Will run for years!

 

[mjszos]

A little late, but I've been quite pleased with this one:

https://www.innovative-marine.com/shop/MightyJet-XL™-2656-GPH-DC-Submersible-Return-Pump-p265326308

 

[piranhaman00]

I am crazy for my Jebao powerheads. They are amazing.

I just don’t know how to make the switch for return pumps (since my plumbing is all set). Will it fit my plumbing? What should I expect to make this switch.

PVC and glue

Just ignore the check valves. They are only there for peace of mind. My tank has siphon breaks on the top, and my sump can hold the water.

Then remove them.

Hi. The Jebao punp didn’t fit the same threading that my echotechs used. :(

Well yes, ecotech uses proprietary threads because they are junk. You will need to do some minor adjustments, very easy.

 

[Miami Reef]

Well yes, ecotech uses proprietary threads because they are junk. You will need to do some minor adjustments, very easy.

None of the Jebao attachments fit a 1” PVC pipe.

I’m going to cut out the Echotech plumbing, but can this pump work with 1” PVC?

 

[piranhaman00]

Yes, it should have come with 1” fitting. I use 1.25” with mine but thought it came with both. If you have to reduce down that will be fine.

 

[get-salty]

ive been using reef octopus varios for years....... super strong and quiet pumps. most importantly, super reliable. Never had any failures in 8 years - and running strong.

 

[Jimbo327]

A little off topic, but what happens to your M2 to make it stop working? Obviously it is not snails or wear/tear as it breaks down so often. Is it the controller? Does Ecotech repair it or just send you a replacement? Maybe you ask for replacement next time. I figure they don’t want to keep repairing if it is a lemon. Sounds like you have thrown in the towel. This is not a good look for Ecotech.

 

[Miami Reef]

A little off topic, but what happens to your M2 to make it stop working? Obviously it is not snails or wear/tear as it breaks down so often. Is it the controller? Does Ecotech repair it or just send you a replacement? Maybe you ask for replacement next time. I figure they don’t want to keep repairing if it is a lemon. Sounds like you have thrown in the towel. This is not a good look for Ecotech.

They looked through my history, and they said it’s different every time. Sometimes the controller breaks, sometimes the motor breaks etc

I don’t have snail issues because I have a guard and I’ve never seen a snail when I’ve taken them apart.

They wanted to charge me 200 to fix it, but after I complained, they spoke to their supervisor and they will fix it for free.

 

[Jimbo327]

If I was Ecotech, I would send you a brand new one instead of trying to fix it at this point.

 

[Miami Reef]

If I was Ecotech, I would send you a brand new one instead of trying to fix it at this point.

They did at one point. I lost track which one was the new one since the serial numbers keep changing. It’s a mess.

They are going to replace the motor.

We will see what problem the 2nd pump has.

 

[Miami Reef]

Sounds like you have thrown in the towel. This is not a good look for Ecotech.

I just got back the pump from repair and it’s not even working. The motor is trying to run, but it can’t.

I even tried to turn the pump on without it attached to plumbing. I changed cords and everything.

I’m so distraught.

 

[Miami Reef]

I took apart the pump and reassembled it.

I held it back together, and the pump started working.

Then I screwed the pump bath together and it stopped working.

Then I unscrewed it and it started working again.

Then I loosely screwed it and it worked. Then I tightened it, and it stopped working.

When I turn the pump on, it has a delayed 2 beat pulse, then works. In the tank, the pump rattles if it’s loosely screwed.


What in the world am I supposed to do?!?!

 

[tsharpe291]

that is absolutely insane! doesn't seem like they have any quality control.