Pump input

I need some feed back and possible recommendations on a new return pump. I currently am using a Mag 7. I have had it for some years and always performed adequately. Recently it has been making more of a hum and when turned off, fails to restart. I have had to use a thin screw driver to turn the impeller to get it going. Per my LFS buddy I have run the pump in a bucket of water and a lot of white vinegar for 2 hours. I did 4 off/ons and it failed on the fourth. After putting it back in the sump it started right up but was making clicking noise. I did an off/on 3 times and it started up but was loud (hum/vibration) and failed again on the last attempt. I am looking for 700 gph and the 2 main requirements are off/on dependability and quietness. I could afford anything but don't want to over spend so "bang for the buck" is considered also. Any recommendations are appreciated.
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No one? What's up? Never mind I already researched and picked one out. Funny though, no one has a return pump, huh...............

 

OK a little slow here but don't want you totally disillusioned. Look into the Rio HF line of pumps. A 12HF would be about where you are looking.

 

Ocean Runner 2500 or Eheim 1260 are both comparable to a Mag 7, much more reliable, quieter, cooler and lower power consumption.

 

I have 3 Mag 7s. One is a new spare, one is on my 29gal as a return and the other is running my skimmer on my 90gal. When was the last time you cleaned the impeller? Sounds like either the impeller needs cleaning or the ceramic shaft that holds the impeller is broken. If it's clacking when starting, the shaft is broken & you are wearing out the housing out FAST!

Impeller is about $14.91 and it you wore out the front housing cover that is $6.62. If this is the only pump you have I wouldn't recommend opening it until you have the parts in hand. You may not get it to work again if the shaft is broken.

Pondmaster Pump Mag Drive Pond Mag Replacement Parts Impeller Volute Prefilter

I do recommend having a backup pump on hand, so you could buy a new one & fix this one or vise versa..

 

Good heads up. Heat not an issue for me, but less power always a plus.. Thanks!! ;D