Return Pumps

[zigi99]

Other than redundancy - is there any another consideration for using two return (upload) pump vs one ?

 

[gms1234]

I'm going to be running 2 on my tank. one is my main return going straight up, other pump is going via chiller and uv at dedicated flow rate. second will also serve as redundancy.

 

[Piotrek]

I'm using 2 return pumps to enhance circulation. Each outlet is divided into 2 separate ones, so a total of 4 outlets create a decent cross flow pattern.
I recommend using the same model for both, based on my bad experience.
I'm using a Jebao 10000 and Jebao 20000. If for some reason the Jebao 10000 is turned off, it cannot be started while the Jebao 20000 is operating. The bigger pump generates so much reverse flow on the smaller one, that it's unable to start.

 

[MrDeeds!1215]

It gives you options. I run 2 returns as well. One is my main and the other use for my UV sterilizer. It seems like redundancies like this are a part of this hobby.

 

[backbayreef]

If possible, I always run dual returns for redundancy, more flow, and aux manifold for UV & reactors. On my big tank, I run dual Abyzz A200, each at 70%. Each is also connected to a different power circuit and one is connected to a UPS.

 

[mcarroll]

Other than redundancy - is there any another consideration for using two return (upload) pump vs one ?

Not really. There are plenty of subjective reasons like running some other device and returning the water to the tank.

But efficiency will be higher and failure rate will be lower with a single *quality* pump.

Keeping a spare on hand isn't a bad idea....with luck and a quality pump it won't happen for several years, but "someday" every pump will fail. And that failure ALWAYS happens on the weekend when the fish store is closed. Always. (You'll shut it down for basic maintenance for the nᵀᴴ time but *this time* it won't fire back up when you're doing with everything.)

 

[Tangdora]

out side of redundancy. Assuming you pipe it correctly with check valves. The only real benefit that I can think of that a second pump gives you is the ability to clean each pump one at a time without having to stop sump turnover. Particularly useful in cold winter months when heater usage is more critical.