Avoid These 8 Return Pump Errors in Reef Tanks!
Your return pump is one of the most critical components of your reef tank, responsible for maintaining water circulation, filtration, and oxygenation. However, many reefers make common mistakes when choosing, installing, or maintaining their return pump, which can lead to inefficiency, stress on livestock, or even system failure.
1. Choosing the Wrong Size Pump
An oversized pump can create excessive flow, stressing corals and fish, while an undersized pump may not provide adequate water movement for filtration and circulation.
Determine the proper turnover rate for your tank—typically 510 times your total water volume per hour—and select a pump that matches that flow rate while factoring in head pressure.
2. Not Considering Head Pressure When Choosing a Pump
Head pressure—caused by vertical height, plumbing bends, valves, and fittings—reduces the actual flow rate of your return pump. Ignoring this can lead to insufficient water movement.
Refer to the manufacturer’s flow rate vs. head pressure chart to ensure your pump can handle the required lift and plumbing resistance in your system. Use larger pipes and minimize sharp bends to reduce head pressure.
3. Using a LowQuality Pump
Cheap or unreliable pumps can be inefficient, noisy, generate excess heat, or fail prematurely—putting your reef tank at risk.
Invest in a high-quality pump from a reputable brand known for durability and efficiency. Look for models with DC motor technology, which provide adjustable flow, quiet operation, and energy efficiency.
4. Not Accounting for Redundancy – Not Having a Spare Pump
A failed return pump can lead to stagnant water, reduced oxygen levels, and an increased risk of livestock loss if not addressed quickly.
Keep a backup return pump on hand or have an emergency plan, such as using a powerhead for temporary circulation. For added safety, consider running dual return pumps for redundancy.
5. External vs. Internal – Choosing the Right Pump for the Job
Choosing the wrong type of pump can impact heat management, efficiency, and system complexity.
Internal (submersible) pumps are easy to install and quieter but add heat to the water. External (inline) pumps run cooler and more efficiently but require additional plumbing and space outside the sump. Pick the pump type that best suits your tank size, heat concerns, and sump setup.
6. Skipping Pump Maintenance
Over time, calcium buildup, detritus, and algae can clog your pump, reducing flow and increasing wear and tear.
Clean your return pump regularly (every 36 months). Soak pump components in vinegar or citric acid to dissolve buildup. Check for wornout impellers or seals and replace them as needed.
7. Using the Wrong Size Plumbing Diameter or Installing Complicated Plumbing
Incorrect pipe size can restrict flow, reduce efficiency, and put unnecessary strain on your return pump.
Match your plumbing diameter to your pump’s output size (or slightly larger to reduce flow restriction). Use smooth bends instead of sharp elbows to minimize resistance. Keep your plumbing as simple as possible to improve water flow.
8. Not Accounting for Future Upgrades and Using Quick Disconnects for Easy Swapping
If you upgrade your tank, add more equipment, or need to replace your pump, an inflexible plumbing setup can make changes difficult.
Choose a pump with adjustable flow or higher capacity in case you expand your system. Install quick disconnects and unions on your plumbing to make pump removal and replacements fast and hasslefree.
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