Return pump set up

[Palmer]

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

[Madreefer]

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.

[ILIKECOUGARS]

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.

[Palmer]

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.