Plumbing Flow Rate Question

[BigHildy53]

I have a Pentair Aquatics 80 UV sterilizer for my 180g display tank; overkill I know. I was using a VarioS 4 pump with 1’’ plumbing to push water through the unit. The pump is in the sump and the water flows back into the sump. According to Apex 1’’ FMM I was getting 450 gallons per hour; at the pump’s maximum speed. I wanted to increase the flow rate, so I upgraded to a RO VarioS 8 pump and 2’’ plumbing with a 2’’ Apex FMM. I’m surprised that even at a lower setting on the pump, the flow rate is only 287 gallons per hour. With the stronger pump and larger plumbing, I expected a higher flow rate. What am I missing? Regarding this specific situation; what I’m missing in general is too broad of a topic…[emoji4]

 

[BigHildy53]

Nothing like posting to make me realize that I didn't change the Apex configuration to 2 inch FMM. Makes a big difference.

 

[maroun.c]

80W is not overkill Ifnu want it to be a bit more effective against Ich... For algae blooms yes its more than u need. Why do u want more flow through the UV, lower flownwell give u a higher kill rate.

 

[BigHildy53]

I was concerned it was too low and killing "good" organics in the water.

 

[Steve1500]

I was concerned it was too low and killing "good" organics in the water.

How is the setup working for you? Are you using the Varios 4 or 8? I am setting up a 180G with the exact same UV and trying to figure out the best pump size and flow rate...mainly for algae control. Any other suggestions? The manual says 2700 for algae and some really low rate for protozoa, so I was thinking of something in between.

I have a Jeboa 55W on my 75G right now and it is not making much of an impact. Not sure if the flow is to slow (250GPH). Hopefully the Pentair will do the trick on the 180.

BTW, I am also looking a something in between like the Varios 6.

Thanks in advance!

 

[BigHildy53]

With the Varios 4 I was getting ~500 gph. This was on a high power setting on the pump. Flow is according to Apex FMM. With the Varios 8 on the lowest setting I the flow is ~1000 gph.

 

[Steve1500]

With the Varios 4 I was getting ~500 gph. This was on a high power setting on the pump. Flow is according to Apex FMM. With the Varios 8 on the lowest setting I the flow is ~1000 gph.

Thanks. Sounds like the 6 or 8 for me

 

[BigHildy53]

Thanks. Sounds like the 6 or 8 for me

I view the Varios 8 for the UV sterilizer pump as a backup return pump also.

 

[Steve1500]

I view the Varios 8 for the UV sterilizer pump as a backup return pump also.

Funny you say that because I do too. My return pump is the 8 so I can sleep better at night