Return pump set up
 

When I bought my setup there was a mag pump included which was being used for the return in the sump and it has a sponge filter on it.

I notice that alot of what I would classify as sump crud ends up in the sponge and the sponge is squeezing inwards on its sides towards the intake. I am concerned that this is not only becoming a trap for stuff I do not want but also restricting flow. Is there another way to jig the return pump without the sponge and prevent critters from being sucked up into the display? I am not really looking to build an overflow in the sump for the return just wondering what other options there are.

Palmer

Throw the sponge away. Unless ypu plan on cleaning it often, it just acts as a nitratre trap. If your worried about critters being sucked up you can build a little cage out of eggcrate and zipties to put around the inlet. The only thing that will hurt the pump is shells.

You don't need the sponge, my mag 12 been running for over 1 1/2 years now. I took the pump apart the other day (first time) to clean, and it only had a little scum inside. Make me wonder why most said that it should be clean every 6 months.

Thanks I removed it and my return flow looks like it more than doubled. I think the sponge was just getting clogged and I only incrementally noticed my flow going down.