Return Pump Size

[LiveRock27]

Looking at picking up a Blueline Velocity pump to use as my return pump on my 90g.

The T3 has a flow rate of 720gph at 4ft while the T2 is rated at 660gph at 4ft.

The pump will only be setup as a return pump to start with, but could also run a carbon reactor.

Which one should I choose?

The pump is not intended to be my main source of flow in the tank. I have a Mp40 and Mp10 for that, but my plan is for this tank to be mainly SPS.

Thanks.

 

[Triggerman77]

Honestly I would go with atleast 1200 gph pump. I ran a Mag 12 on my 90 BC a Mag 9 was not enough,. heck i have a like new Little Giant MDQX-4 heres a like this is a great pump :)

Little Giant Inline Water Pump

 

[skinz78]

I agree with Triggerman, especially if you wish to run other items off of it in the future.

 

[MitchReef]

Optimum return rate is the same rate as your Protein Skimmer. If the Skimmer moves 350GPH, your return rate should be 350GPH. Any more decreases the effectiveness of your skimmer. With higher return rates you increase the risk of microbubbles. Sure, people blast their return pumps, but those who do the real research are my source of this info.

 

[LiveRock27]

Thanks everyone.

I had thought that you wanted less turnover like Mitchreef said and wanted the flow through your sump slower.

At most this return pump is going to run a BRS reactor w/carbon.

 

[LiveRock27]

I have been doign some reading and I keep reading that the Velocity pumps put off some heat. Does anyone have an experience with these pumps? Any other suggestions on brands of external pumps?

Thanks.