Powerheads/Pumps

Selecting the proper pump is very important for the proper flow of water. Too high a flow can send things swirling and too low a flow can cause algae to flourish. We offer many pumps, so that the proper model can be selected. Pressure pumps are designed to pump the water into a protein skimmer or in-line pressure filter. Circulation pumps differ in that they are used in free flow applications such as direct returns and wet/dry filters. Circulation pumps are the most commonly used pumps for circulation from sump to water jets. The flow rate is much higher on circulation pumps. All our pumps are are made of corrosion resistant and salt water exposure rated materials. The optimum tank "Turnover Rate" is approximately 2 to 3 times a tanks volume per hour for freshwater and 3 to 4 times per hour for saltwater. To approximate a pumps flow rate in closed systems, subtract 25% from the pumps maximum rated flow to compensate for filter and plumbing restriction. When using an external pump measure the height difference from the water level in the sump to the water level in the tank, and refer to the pumps flow data. Note: All pumps should be installed before any filters, UV sterilizers, etc. The suction (inlet) side of the pump must never be restricted. Use plumbing on the suction side that is the same size as the pumps inlet. For long runs, or when several elbow (45?or 90? fittings are used, increase the plumbing to the next larger size. If the flow rate of a pump needs to be adjusted, the valve should be placed on the discharge (outlet) side of the pump, never restrict the suction side. See our sump-to-pump plumbing kits for ready to install plumbing.