Last Updated on October 21, 2022 by admins
Sump pumps are a beneficial addition to saltwater aquariums. If you plan to get one, you will want to use an aquarium sump pump size calculator. This will help ensure that you get the right-sized sump pump for your fish tank.
For the well-being of your fish and plant life in your aquarium, it is vital to have proper water flow in your tank. By calculating the correct size of the pump, you can make sure your aquarium is getting the proper flow for its size.
If you buy a pump that is too big, you can have overflow problems. On the other hand, if you buy one that is too small you may not have enough flow in your tank.
What is an Aquarium Sump?
A sump is a tank that resides underneath the aquarium itself. It typically houses the filtration system of the aquarium.
Water flows from the aquarium by gravity to the sump where the water goes through a return pump and back into the aquarium. It creates a balance of water flowing in and out of the fish tank without causing an overflow.
In addition to a return pump, the sump will also generally include a check valve, heater, protein skimmer, bubble trap, and filter sock. For those with saltwater aquariums, a sump is often a good investment.
Aquarium sumps are often glass or acrylic tanks. However, some people will even use plastic or Rubbermaid containers for their sump. Though Rubbermaid or plastic containers can also work, it is often best to stick with a glass or acrylic tank.
One of the biggest benefits of a sump is that it gives the aquarium a more appealing look as the equipment sits below the tank. In addition, it can make the maintenance of the equipment easier as well. A sump also allows for better filtration, no surface gunk, more oxygen, and increased water volume.
Learn more about Saltwater Aquarium Filter Setup
Aquarium Return Pump
The return pump of an aquarium works to return the water from the sump back to the display tank. It is very important to have the correct size return pump to make sure your tank is getting the right flow. Having the right setup can make a big difference in your tank.
An aquarium return pump is specifically designed to pump water uphill and can handle head pressure. They can be DC or AC, however, DC is currently more popular.
DC pumps offer controllable precision, with the ability to have feed modes that shut off the system whenever you are feeding your fish. Some brands even come with apps that allow you to control the pump with your phone.
AC pumps tend to be more reliable, as the only failure point is at the motor block. DC pumps, on the other hand, have failure points at the motor, power supply, and controller. However, AC pumps can also be loud and are often not as adjustable as DC pumps.
Return pumps can also be internal or external, however, many people refer to external pumps. An internal pump will only run when it is submerged in water. An external pump operates exclusively out of the water and generally has a higher flow rate.
Return Pump Calculator
It can be overwhelming to find the right return pump for your aquarium. There are so many different options and sizes to choose from when it comes to finding what is right for your aquarium. It is important to get the right size return pump for it to properly work with your aquarium.
The pump flow should also match the flow rate for the protein skimmer to ensure maximum efficiency in the filter. This will allow for the whole setup of the aquarium to run smoothly.
To calculate the right size, you need to figure out the gallons per hour (GPH). Aquarium tanks are rated by GPH. To find the right return pump for your tank, you will need to calculate this number.
Generally, the rule to follow is to have a turnover/flow rate of 5 to 10 times the tank volume per hour. So, to figure out the GPH to find the right return pump, it is best to follow this equation: tank volume x 5 to 10. That means a 60-gallon tank will need a pump flow rate of 300-600 GPH, as 60 x 5 to 10= 300-600.
Using this aquarium GPH calculator will allow you to find the right return pump for your aquarium. This simple calculation will ensure that you are buying the right size pump for your aquarium.
Having the right return pump will give you the proper environment for your aquarium. Your fish and your plant life will both benefit from having proper water flow. In addition, the right water flow will help keep your aquarium in good health and help prevent algae as well as other chemicals in the water.
Benefits Of Using an Aquarium Sump Pump Size Calculator
Having an aquarium in your home can be a great hobby. Not only is it fun, but it can make for a beautiful centerpiece in your home. There are so many beautiful fish species and even plant species you can add to your tank.
It is important that the tank has proper water flow. Water flow is important in order to maintain a healthy environment in your aquarium. It will help the aquarium maintain a healthy ecosystem where your fish and plant life can thrive.
When having an aquarium, a sump can be a beneficial addition. It allows you to store the filtration system for your tank out of sight, giving the aquarium a more appealing look. In addition, it provides improved filtration, no surface gunk, more oxygen, and increased water volume.
One of the items in the sump is the return pump. It is important to calculate the right size of the return pump. Too big and it can cause overflow too small there won’t be enough water flow.
To End
Do you have any questions regarding how to use an aquarium sump pump size calculator? If so, please ask your questions about return pumps and how to find the right size in the comment section below.
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