Return Pump Recommendations
By now you’ve seen that there are several key features with which you can compare water pumps. These include:
- Power: AC or DC,
- Pump speed and Flow control (DC only),
- Flow rate,
- Single speed pump (AC power),
- Energy consumption (DC is more efficient),
- Water level sensor to prevent pump running dry,
- Feeding mode that temporarily reduces flow (DC only),
- Submersible vs. external-only installation,
- Wired vs. wireless control,
- Automation and programming compatible.
All of these factors should be considered when shopping for a return flow water pump.
Basic saltwater fish and freshwater aquariums don’t always benefit from the super-accurate speed control, wave programming and feeding modes of the DC water pumps.
A planted aquarium is the exception where water movement could be adjusted for plant density, leaf size and height.
Reef aquarists, with the desire for ultimate control of water flow patterns and aquarium automation are prime candidates for DC return pumps.
The Hagen Fluval SP4 Sea series is a compact, simple water pump that is at home in saltwater and freshwater sump systems. If you have a sump and need an economical water pump, take a close look at the Sea Pump line.
For larger freshwater and marine tanks that simply need to pump a lot of water, the Pan World 150PS is a nice balance of power, quality and price. If you you’re willing to spend more and want the Japanese-made motor, go for the Iwaki MD40RLXT or similar MD series of low-pressure return pumps.
For the ultimate in flow control, any of the DC return pumps will work in a reef or planted aquarium. When making a selection, consider which brand offers integration into an aquarium automation system.
The Reef Octopus VarioS-6 is compatible with third-party controllers. Current’s eFlux DC Flow Pumps can link up to the LOOP control system, which integrates Current LED fixtures into one App-controlled command center.
If your goal is to build an automated lighting, dosing and water flow system it is helpful to select one brand of equipment so it all speaks the same language and communicates properly, or is known to be compatible with other controllers and automation systems.
For reef aquariums the trend is defiantly toward DC pumps and automation. But if all you want is flow control and a feeding mode, consider the Jecod/Jebao DCP 4000. It has these features plus a low-water sensor that will protect the pump.
