Return pump/overflow questions

[Sniperhank]

Ok, so before I get everything up and running with my 55 gal there are some def upgrades that I need to make. One of which is my return pump. I'm running a crappy Rio w/ 500 gph.

This is my overflow box. Amazon.com: CPR Aquatics CS50 Siphon Overflow: Pet Supplies
It is rated at 300 gph.

My question is, how much stronger of a pump could/should I use? Right now with the Rio, most of the waterflow from the tank is being supplied by the aqualifter...it is far from a "waterfall" of water. More like a slow trickle.

I am also ordering a Dual BRS Reactor with MJ1200 Pump. I have no clue how I am going to get all of this stuff together at this time... I am a plumbing retard. To demonstrate what I think it should look like, I have utilized the technological magic of MS Paint. Enjoy.

 

[Sniperhank]

Be amazed!

 

[mfdrookie516]

There's a calculator on reef central that calculates head height. I'd look at something like a mag 5, which would probably put you about where you want to be with flow at head height. Also plan on putting a ball valve above the pump so that you can always control how much low there is.

 

[Sniperhank]

Yeah, I was looking at the mag 5 and it appears to work out in the calculator. Think it will be ok with the dual reactor plumbed directly into everything?

 

[mfdrookie516]

I would get a 7 and run a tee off of it with a ball valve on each side of the tee... run the reactor separately, so that you can tune the flow but not restrict the turnover rate of the tank

 

[Sniperhank]

I like that idea.

 

[Reef79]

I'm running a danner mag 7 on my 55 with no restrictions now wish I had went with. An 8 it would be more flow at the far end which I had to run additional powerhead to make sure there were no dead flow zones

 

[Sniperhank]

I'm not worried about flow in my tank. I have 2 750s, a 1250, and a 550. I'll figure out the right amount for in the tank when it is done cycling, until then the larger will keep the water moving and the other 3 will stay in my 36.