Does an aquaclear6000 need to be submerged?

B

bcreef

[I want to use a pump externally to run a closed loop in my display. Some pumps, I have two laying around from pond systems, (laguna), say in the instructions to always use submerged. Do I have to get a specific pump to use externally? I'm trying to eliminate the look of the intake sticking down into the display. What if I put the intake into the overflow chamber? Would it disrupt the balance of flow from the sump pump and overflow?

bc]
 
[If you can fit it in the overflow, and it doesn't suck in air bubbles (which would cause microbubbles where it returns to the tank), you can do that.

I've used Mag pumps externally without issue, but some have had problems. Eheim pumps work externally, as do many others that are specifically designed for such application.]
 
[I would think putting the pump in the overflow might cause the pump to run dry when the return from the sump is shut down in some cases. Here is my thinking....

Let's say your overflow holds 2 Gallons of water when the return from the sump is off. Let's say your tank drains 5 gallons of water into the sump when the return is off. Now have the closed loop on. The 2 gallons from the Overflow chamber will be pumped into the main display but it will not be enough to displace water from the display back into the overflow chamber you are basically 3 gallons short. Then the pump has run dry.

This is all hypothetical and I just made up the gallon figures above, BUT if there is not enough water in the overflow chamber you run the risk of running the pump dry when your return pump is shut off for some reason.]
 
[That makes sense to me. You'd have to shut off the closed loop whenever you turned off the main pump. Thanks for thinking that through!]
 
[I see what you mean. It would run dry unless I have it powered on the same on - off switch as my sump. Better to be safe than sorry. Also, I assume you recomend a pump specifically designed to run externally. Do closed loop systems always use a sqwd or other wave device? Is that better for reef aquaria that constant flow?

Thanks for your help.

bc]
 
[I run mine on a Mag9.5 (externally) with a SCWD. The Mag series say they are internal/external but sometimes they leak when run externally. I have noticed a small amount of salt creep on mine but no real problems. I was happy with the SCWD but mine has recently froze up and is pushing water out one port only. My tank is still happy so me being lazy and trying to get my newer tank started I have left it.

I thinked the varied flow (SCWD or OM) is probably better but you can definitely use a closed loop with just ports (multiple/single) to keep the large powerhead/pump out of your display.]
 
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