return pump question

[mandown123]

I have a 30 gallon with sump (10-15 gallon?). I need to increase the flow in my tank because the return pump is very weak - the one that came with the filter.

I was wondering what i could get away with because the tank will have to have a balance between overflow and return, correct? I am new but this seems logical i cant just put in the biggest pump i can or it will mess up the level of water.

Can anyone advise/help me out to understand this.. What is the best flowing return pump (and quiet would be awesome) i can get away with with that setup. The drain pipe is like 1" wide

 

[fijiwigi]

a 1" drain pipe is a good choice. All you really need to make sure of is that your overflow has a rating that matches up with your return pump New Acrylic Overflow Box and Skimmer Box for Saltwater Aquariums This is the overflow that I have. works with a mag5 or even a mag7 I have a mag7 on my 46g tank. the mag5 would be a better choice for a 30g MagDrive 500gph Water Pump: Premium Aquatics

 

[Ziggy953]

1" PVC allows for 600gph drain. A MAG5 or equavalent would work well for your size tank.

 

[mandown123]

is that the good one? the mag5? I will go with this one if its the best bet.

Thanks, you guys are the best.

 

[Ziggy953]

Danner pumps are very reliable and have good reviews. I own two a Mag5 and a Mag7. They can be used submerged or inline. Look for them online you will save money over buying them at an LFS.

 

[mandown123]

i just looked it up, i think i have a CAP 1800 pump. is this mag5 better or is it like the same?

 

[fijiwigi]

CAP Aquarium Water Pumps Jacksonville Florida it looks like the Cap 1800 has about the same GPH rating as the danner mag5 I don't know how accurate that is because I have never had a Cap1800. I am happy with my danner mag7 very strong flow You could always continue to use the Cap1800 and add more flow with a strong powerhead

 

[mandown123]

thanks maybe i should just geta maxi jet

 

[melosu58]

IMO mag pumps are the best. I have the mag 9.5 and mag 12 and they are reliable and quiet.

 

[cmor1701d]

Mag's are great pumps, but they do add some heat to the water too If you only need more flow in the tank and you already have a pump rated for your overflow, then you should add some power heads. Look at the Hydor Koralia's and MaxiJets.

 

[Ziggy953]

I agree with Cmor. If you don't need a new return pump then pick up a koralia they do a great job of adding flow and they use very little power.

If you do need a new return pump you will do well to get the Danner Mag pump.