Submersible Return Pump Recommendations for a 135

[bigjohn]

I have a 135 display tank with a 29 gallon sump. I have been using a single Mag Drive 950 as a return. Now I am thinking that I would like to increase the circulation in my tank.

I don't have much space in my cabinet so I need a submersible pump.

1) I could buy a second Mag 950 (or similar) and connect one pump to each return.

2) I could buy a larger pump and save the 950 as backup.

How much turnover is enough?? How much is too much??

[digital_dragon]

My pesonal opinion is a MAG 12 or a MAG 18. I am using a MAG 12 for my return on my 90 Gallon returning through a spray bar that I made with holes offset every 6 inches across the top back of my tank. I an considering replacing the MAG12 with a MAG 18 and see if it will add a little more current or be to much. For your size you would be safe with a MAG18. Just my opinion.

Earl

[Casey]

it is whatever you like I only run a mag 7 on my 100 gal lots of people on here like to run much bigger current rates. Casey

[Doug1]

FWIW I had a Mag18 returning thru 4 5/8 outlets and I didnt think it was especially high flow

[tdwyatt]

Originally posted by Doug1
I had a Mag18 returning thru 4 5/8 outlets and I didnt think it was especially high flow

changing to 1" diameter pipe will make a HUGE difference when comparing the final delivery rate for pumps. A Mag 18 with 1/2 inch pipe will underperform a Mag 12 when the 12 is equipped with 1" pipe.

[Minnreefer]

I have used both a Mag 12 and a mag 18 for a return on our 135, I have also used both the mag 12 and the mag 18 for a return at the same time, I like flow . If in doubt get a mag 12.

HTH

Jon

[bigjohn]

Thanks for all the replies.

I realize that different tank inhabitants prefer different amounts of turbidity.

I didn't mention in my original post but I also have a MJ 1200 in the tank to stir things up.

Do the folks with larger amounts of turnover use power heads to circulate their tanks or do you strictly depend on the current from your return??

[Minnreefer]

on our 135 we currently have a mag 12 for return plus 3 maxi1200's, a ampmaster 3000 (3000 GPH) on a closed loop, and I want a little more flow.

HTH

Jon

[chewie]

I'd say Mag 12 or 18. I'm running a mag 12 on my 135 and want a little bit more but not much.

As for turnover, you are right. It all depends on what you have in your tank.

My tank is mostly SPS and I want more flow. I have the mag 12 return, 2 MJ1200's and a Mak4 on a closed loop feeding 2 SCWD's(i jumped on the wagon too LOL). Soon I'll be adding an Iwaki 40 on another closed loop. I probably will still want more flow.

[thebigblue]

im using a mag 18 on my AGA 125 with 3/4" returns...the problem becomes that the overflows just cant take it...im pushing mine at their max right now with the standard 4' of head...

if i had it to do over again, i think i would have a smaller return pump which would put less pressure on my overflows and limit sump bubbles etc...then setup a second pump on a closed loop...

but, if your just lookin for one pump, the mag 18 really moves the water...

BTW, i dont have any PH's in my tank...

brad

[digital_dragon]

To compliment my MAG12 with a return spraybar I have 3 MJ 1200 in three different areas of my 90 to get some good cross current and to alleviate any dead spots. I am with Minnreefer I like current.

Earl