RO mixing tank and externally plumbed pumps.

[littlebigreef]

I've purchased a 35 gal ace roto mold tank for holding RO water while I mix it. I want to use the bulkhead to install a pump in-line that will be 'T'ed off and valved with one leading back into the RO tank (for mixing) and the other to a hose (for filling the sump).

1) What is the best pump to use for mixing purposes? Are some brands better for being externally mounted? Should I spring for a ceramic shaft? The sump will be 36" from the tank with no head so I don't need an overly powerful pump. I'd prefer something with an enclosed housing for the motor as there's bound to be drips.
2) I believe its a 1" bulkhead , if I replace the bulk head should I go with a narrower diameter or is it just as well to reduce down the existing bulkhead once I have my pump picked out?
3) any 'gotchas' associated with externally plumbed pumps?

I'm looking forward to automating this part of the process.

Thanks!

 

[dbl]

Just about any pump that you can run externally will work. You'll want it to be strong enough to pump the water to your display/sump area. If it is at least that strong, it will be plenty strong enough to mix salt while using it for that.

Take a look at the article below. I wrote it a while ago but there is a lot of great conversation on mixing stations. It may provide an idea or two you may not have thought of.

Bottom line...You'll love a well designed mixing station.

https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/let’s-mix-it-up-designing-and-using-a-water-mixing-station.270585/

 

[littlebigreef]

Just about any pump that you can run externally will work. You'll want it to be strong enough to pump the water to your display/sump area. If it is at least that strong, it will be plenty strong enough to mix salt while using it for that.

Take a look at the article below. I wrote it a while ago but there is a lot of great conversation on mixing stations. It may provide an idea or two you may not have thought of.

Bottom line...You'll love a well designed mixing station.

https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/let’s-mix-it-up-designing-and-using-a-water-mixing-station.270585/

Thanks! I didn't see your article when I was researching but it certainly filled in the last few questions I had. thanks for the help!