Sump flow, GPM?

[banditpowdercoat]

Trying just my sump return in the new 150. Originally was going to use a Little Giant 3-MDQX 700GPH pump, pumping 5 ft of head. But, that pump, the bearings were noisy. So the tank came with a LG 4-MDQX 1325GPH pump. Now, I am wondering is that to much flow? the spec sheet says approx 1100GPH with my head. Tank and coast to coast overflow are handling it great. But wondering if maybe I should tap my Berlin Skimmer off it???

[Myka]

Are you getting micro bubbles? If so, I would steal some flow from it, but I figure you may as well steal some for the skimmer anyway because it's there and it eliminates the need for a separate pump for the skimmer.

[BlueAbyss]

+1, I don't see any reason not to steal some flow for the skimmer... You've got more than enough flow through your sump.

Most people say you don't need any more than 10x turnover through your sump (many have less turnover than even that).

[Myka]

10x turnover through is sump is kinda old school. 5-8x seems to be pretty popular these days, but as little at 3x is quite sufficient. Personally, I like 5-6x through the sump.

[banditpowdercoat]

Well, No micro bubbles in sump with all the flow. But, I tried to steal the skimmer off it, Not enough flow. I need to up the skimmer line size, 5/8" hose atleast, and downsize the tank outputs to Two 1/2" outlets instead of Two 3/4" outlets.

Like my other tanks, I hope to not have to use powerheads in the tank. maybe a Vortech or a Wavebox at most. Other pump is a Leakmas...ER AmpMaster 3000 LOL. Upgraded to new seal, so shouldnt leak.

I do have a mag 7 I bought to run the skimmer. And I was thinking of making a better air injector on the MAG intake. The Air injector on the skimmer is on the skimmer in/Pump out. Don't think it makes as good of bubbles??? ost skimmers I see have the air on the pump intake. Is there a way I could make a better air injector to go on the Sump return feed to the skimmer??? It's a cheap Red Sea Berlin Turbo skimmer. But it's going to have to do for AT LEAST a year. No way I can afford a BK or anytihing soon.

[Scavenger]

My 2 cents is, low flow through the sump allows the skimmer to grab more crap before it returns to tank. Just my opinion though.

[mark]

Nothing wrong with your sump return pump contributing to the overall turn over in your display.

Not that skimmers are 100% efficient but if stuff is missed the first time through, it's a loop so there's always next time.

[Pazil]

I have approx 2600 gph going through mine:mrgreen::mrgreen: