Size of Return Pump to Aquarium Size

Hello!

I have a 155 gallon marine tank with a 50 gallon sump can anyone tell me what the rule of thumb is for turning over your tank water ? Is it 3 times your tank volume per hour.

What size return pump would you suggest? I have had the same pump in there for over 6 years...its still running but I feel like the circulation isnt as good as it should be.

Thanks!
Marine Queen (Cheryl)

 

I always shoot for 10x my sump volume. So in your case, about 500gph. (which works out to about 3x your tank volume in this case)



I would look at an ehiem 1260

 

3 to 5x your tank volume is a good starting place. As thatgrimguy pointed out though, you need to consider the sump volume also as a larger pump on a smaller sump could lead to microbubble problems even with baffles. In your case with a 50G sump you should be in good shape though even at 5x the display volume or a little higher. It when you see people with 10 or 20 gallon sumps on a 75G or larger display you get nervous recommending pump sizes. The sump needs time dissipate bubbles so a lower velocity is nice.