Question on Rollermat Filter Plumbing

[drbogger]

Okay, so I purchased a Bubble Magus Rollermat Filter:
https://premiumaquatics.com/products/bubble-magus-filter-roller.html

After I received it, I realized it's only good for 500 GPH. My setup pushes around 2000 GPH.

So I have two options that I can think of doing... And I need opinions...

1. Split the overflow plumbing using a TEE, and install a valve to direct partial flow to the rollermat filter, and just have the rest go directly into the sump.

OR

2. Leave the plumbing as-is (directly into the sump), and just use one of my spare water pumps, and run the rollermat filter off of a pump that sits in the sump.


Which option should I go for?

 

[Big G]

Bump

 

[drbogger]

Bump

 

[Potatohead]

They’ll both work. Personally I’d run it off the overflow to save a few bucks in power, and you’ll probably catch more junk that way too.

 

[Miker79]

How are you determining your flow rate? Measured flow or from the pump rating? The rated flow rates on the pump can be deceiving since they measure it in such a way to get the highest numbers, in real life application you will see much less then what is on the chart. I would run it on the return and see if there is an issue most likely on a 3/4” or 1” return line 500 gph will be fine.

You can also put a container under you return and measure the time it takes to fill and calculate your actual flow.

 

[drbogger]

How are you determining your flow rate? Measured flow or from the pump rating? The rated flow rates on the pump can be deceiving since they measure it in such a way to get the highest numbers, in real life application you will see much less then what is on the chart. I would run it on the return and see if there is an issue most likely on a 3/4” or 1” return line 500 gph will be fine.

You can also put a container under you return and measure the time it takes to fill and calculate your actual flow.

I have 8 tanks plumbed together.

The pump is rated for 4000 GPH, but I'm also running my protein skimmer and UV sterilizer off of it also.

So I figured after the head pressure, and everything else in between, I'm getting approximately 2000 GPH through the drain line.

 

[drbogger]

So after talking to a few different people, I decided to go with Option #2 (see original post).

Seems to be working well so far.