55gal,over the tank overflow,sump/in sump skimmer. We have two pumps one is the RIO 2100 692gph and Dolphin 692gph. These will be used to run the skimmer and the return. Is this enough or to much? This is the first time using an over the tank overflow and return. Our other tank was 75 reef with builtin overflow. Both these pumps were used. Also how many power heads should be used? Thank you so very much
Pump size
- Thread starter nataliejo
- Start date
By the sounds of the other posts you may not have time (rock on the way) but I much prefer a drilled tank with a built-in overflow vs. the hang-on types. If by chance that is still an option, I'd recommend doing it.
The (upper) limiting factor with return pump selection is the capacity of the overflow. Considering the losses you'll have from head pressure and friction/form losses of the plumbing/fittings, you'll be getting significantly less ouptut than the ratings given for those pumps. I'd say you'll be fine as most overflows I've seen have more capacity than the actual flow you'll be seeing. Regardless, you should plumb your return pump will ball valves on both sides of the pump so it can be removed for cleaning/replacement. In the event the pump was a bit too strong for your overflow you could always close the valve a bit on the output side to reduce flow.
BTW, you might want to do a search here about RIO pumps. Those larger models are not very well liked by many.
The (upper) limiting factor with return pump selection is the capacity of the overflow. Considering the losses you'll have from head pressure and friction/form losses of the plumbing/fittings, you'll be getting significantly less ouptut than the ratings given for those pumps. I'd say you'll be fine as most overflows I've seen have more capacity than the actual flow you'll be seeing. Regardless, you should plumb your return pump will ball valves on both sides of the pump so it can be removed for cleaning/replacement. In the event the pump was a bit too strong for your overflow you could always close the valve a bit on the output side to reduce flow.
BTW, you might want to do a search here about RIO pumps. Those larger models are not very well liked by many.
Sorry, forgot about the powerhead question...
As for how many in that size tank - it really depends on how large they are and what kind of flow you're trying to achieve (which will basically be a function of what you plan to keep in the tank). If you're talking about Maxi-Jet 1200s (very popular, cheap, durable) probably anywhere from 2 to 4 will be good. If you get a Tunze or Seio (high output, wide flow pumps) you could achieve similar or greater flow rates with just 1 or 2 pumps.
As for how many in that size tank - it really depends on how large they are and what kind of flow you're trying to achieve (which will basically be a function of what you plan to keep in the tank). If you're talking about Maxi-Jet 1200s (very popular, cheap, durable) probably anywhere from 2 to 4 will be good. If you get a Tunze or Seio (high output, wide flow pumps) you could achieve similar or greater flow rates with just 1 or 2 pumps.
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