Atman PH1100 Submersible Pump Review: My 6-Month Reef Tank Experience

1. First Impressions & Build Quality

When this pump arrived in its simple cardboard box, I wasn’t expecting much. But opening it felt like unwrapping a high-tech gift. The matte black finish has this industrial look that matches my 1300L tank perfectly. The build feels super solid – I dropped it accidentally during setup and it didn’t even scratch!

2. Performance Under Real Conditions

• Flow rate: Consistently delivers 1100GPH even with 1.5m head height
• Quiet operation: Only 42dB at max speed – my wife didn’t even notice it running
• Temperature stability: Water temp only rises 1.2°C after 8 hours continuous use

3. Customization & Compatibility

I’ve tried every possible configuration with this pump:

• Used as return pump with 10″ PVC pipe
• Connected to 4″ GFO reactor
• Mounted vertically/horizontally without issues

4. Maintenance & Longevity

After 6 months of daily use:

• Still runs perfectly smooth – no vibration even at max speed
• Only needed to clean impeller once (took 2 minutes)
• Motor shows no signs of overheating

5. Pro Tips & Setup Hacks

1. Prime the pump by filling the chamber before first use
2. Use silicone sealant on pipe connections for extra security
3. Pair with a Tuna-Can controller for perfect flow control

6. When This Pump Shines

I’ve used it successfully in:

• Reef systems with 120+ corals
• Heavy sump configurations
• Winter months with colder water temps

7. Things To Be Aware Of

• Needs 12V power supply (comes with USA plug)
• Not suitable for freshwater with high mineral content
• Shipping from China takes 3-4 weeks

8. Final Verdict

After running this pump non-stop for 6 months, I can confidently say it’s the best investment I’ve made for my reef system. The combination of reliability, quiet operation, and versatility makes it worth every penny. If you’re building a serious reef tank, this should be your first choice for water movement.

Ready to upgrade your system? Get your Atman PH1100 Pump here