What kind of return pump?

So I'm going to start building my fuge this week. I have a 34 gallon sea max and the sump will be around 10-15 gallons. Can anyone point me in the right direction of what kind of return pump I will need? Most importantly what size and also some brand recommendations. I really have no idea where to start.

Thanks

 

Will the sump be a refugium only? I recommend one of the mag drive pumps for a return. They are one of the strongest and one of the most reliable you can get. Mag drives are tanks, all metal and pretty heavy. They are a bit more pricey up front, however they will likely never stop working and the head pressure they put out will outperform any other pump of its size... and you definitely need head pressure for a return. Save yourself money by buying quality now instead of replacing a cheap pump later on with a quality make. How high does the water have to travel to get back to the tank? That will determine the model you should look into.

 

either way you will wanna look at the #3-5 model range. dont be shocked by price, you can find these used on ebay/craigslist for super good deals. I got a used mag drive 12 off criagslist ($150 new) for $70 shipped. even after 2 owners it runs and looks like new.

Mag Drive - Bulk Reef Supply

 

Its probably going up about 3 feet. Think I could safely get the supreme 3?

And sorry I don't understand what you mean by refugium only? Its just gonna have some mud, chaeto and live rock.

http://www.saltysupply.com/Reef-Oct...p/OC3524.htm?gclid=CP3YjJL8xLMCFal_QgodRGsAiw

This is the skimmer I'm pretty sure I want, and then the return pump. Think the supreme 3 and this skimmer would be good for my setup?

 

well the 3 will be pushing about 330 gph at 3 feet, which in my opinion is a lot of flow through a refugium, so i would think a 3 with a ball valve to throttle it down a bit would be plenty. also be sure to use the foam pad it comes with to cut back on vibration. its very quiet with the pad and pretty loud due to vibration without it. my mag 12 has the pad on the bottom and its 100% quiet, has to be, its next to my bed!

 

Ok. So you think I would be ok with a 2? I don't wanna under do it but at the same time I'm gonna be near broke at the end of this add on. Also since its metal it can't be inside the fuge right?

 

no it can be, they are designed to be in saltwater for continuous use. Also i would go with the 3, look on Craigslist for a sweet deal! they are out there, just be sure it comes with the foam pad already attached or with the pump so you can put it on.

 

Will do. Thanks a lot ford!