need some help guys

so should I go with the eshopps pf300 overflow box, pumping 300gph and a rio 1400 return pump, pumping 420gph. Or should I go with the eshopps pf800 overflow box, pumping 800gph and a rio 1700 return pump, pumping 642gph.

 

You could always go with the pf800 and get the smaller pump, that way you can upgrade your pump if you want more flow without having to buy a new overflow

 

i was planning on putting a ball valve on top of the pump to control the flow

 

Ya, I understand but what I am saying is why not spend the extra $10 and get a larger overflow so if you ever get a larger tank or want a stronger pump you dont need a new overflow to accommodate the higher flow

 

I can get the 800 and put a ball valve on it to slow it down and get the rio 1700 with a ball valve on it. My wife will not let me go any bigger on the tank. I had to beg and beg to get her to let me go to the 40g.

 

Oh ok I see, I have a 60g and even though i could get away with the pf300 I went with the pf800 to be safe. Just a side note but you do not need to restrict the overflow, it flows perfectly with the pump.

 

The pf300 is plenty, even if you upgrade to a 55g later. If your only turnover for your tank is the return pump (not advised) then you need to go with a large pump. Otherwise, save your money, buy a pump rated at 200gph and save the electricity. Then buy a couple powerheads to get better circulation.

 

power heads, or wave makers. How many gph on each one?

 

Depends on what your trying to keep. I have a 29g with a koralia 750gph and a 240gph, that's not including the 275ish gph my return pumps (return pump turned down with a ball valve). So with just power heads I'm at 990gph, basically at about 34x turn over rate.

 

Hmm.. I'm not sure where you are shopping.