Return pumps

M

MJMK

I have been looking into replacing my pumps. Right now I"m using a Danner Mag return but looking to switch to DC for efficiency and better control). I have gotten a few ideas and looked into them but now I'm lost because they all have claims but I have no input from the ones who have actually used them. Hopefully you guys can give me insight, maybe even other suggestions.

-Waveline DC-10000 Gen II Pump
-Reef Octopus Diablo DC 10500
-Sicce (still wondering on this one...mixed reviews that their claims aren't reality which would negate them because they are a little higher priced and their efficiency is lacking)
-Red Dragon (I just threw this one up because it was a suggestion. Wow they are expensive compared to the others but OMFG Titanium? Would love one!!!)
-Jebao (not looking at this one but it was recommended....personally I "try" to stay away from chinese companies. I don't agree with their patent infringement)

I was leaning more towards the Diablo because of their efficiency and the brand name has always been associated with quality. I would really like to hear everybody's input to this!!! I have heard of a wavemaking setup using a DC return pump too that would be a cool addition to the tank.
 
I know Jebao is not at the top of your list at all, but from my personal experience this thing is great. I mean it's cheap and works perfect. I have the DC1200 from them for my return. For me personally, I couldn't justify paying a lot more for something to work the same. And if this thing does ever break, for the price, I can buy another and still be cheaper than some of the other returns. The overall consensus was positive as well. Just the way I looked at it.


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@DetroitRodeo wrote:
I know Jebao is not at the top of your list at all said:
How long have you had it and what kind of maintenance schedule do you keep? No noticeable degrading of flow? I do appreciate all the information on this one, even though it's not at the "top" of my list, it's still something to consider!
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@MJMK wrote:
[I]@DetroitRodeo wrote:[/I][quote="I know Jebao is not at the top of your list at all said:
How long have you had it and what kind of maintenance schedule do you keep? No noticeable degrading of flow? I do appreciate all the information on this one, even though it's not at the "top" of my list, it's still something to consider!"]

I use the jebao dc12000 first one ran about 15 months then the motor seized up when I was taking it out to clean it. I never cleaned it before so kinda my own fault. The new one is on running fine for the last 6 months. I should pull it out and clean it soon. But I keep one on backup at all times no matter what pump I use. It never see a degrading flow rate. I used to run a mag 18 as just a return and it did ok. Now with the dc12000 I run it at full power 24 hours a day with 2 reactors plumbed into it, and still have more flow then the mag pump. I bought mine off amazon with prime and was about same as fish street price but faster shipping.
Hope this helps you with a decision.


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Definitely does Eckolancer. I have heard numerous good comments about Jebao so far. The comments make me think about it. Ultimately I want a good product. I would LOVE to get a Red Dragon because I know how titanium survives in harsh environments but its hard to spend $600+ on a pump when others have had great success with less expensive pumps...such as the Jebao pumps.
 
I have A Waveline DC-10000 Gen II on my 300 gal planted tank. While the pump and controller never stopped working, I went through a couple cooling fans on the back of the controller. The good news is that Salty Supply had a new controller (30 second swap, two plugs) in the mail for me USPS Priority the next business day both times and extended my warranty. The latest controller is big/finned enough to not need a cooling fan, so I don't see that being a recurring issue at this point. I would buy it again, although might go with the next size up given the size of my tank.
 
I have two wave lines and hate them. The 4000 did not have anywhere near the advertised flow and the 10000 locked up on me after 6 months. Switched the 4000 out for an eheim and the 10000 for a quiet one until I find something better. I'm still looking.
 
Wes, did you try to warranty the 10000? What was the result?

I should add that I've been told going with a DC pump instead of something known to be fairly reliable like a Red Dragon or a Danner is a bit like gambling. I concluded that for the electrical savings over the Danner and cost savings over the Red Dragon made it worth the risk. Mine is a freshwater tank with an MP60, so nothing bad is going to happen if I lose my pump for 48 hours.
 
Hey MJMK, I've had it going for about 7-8 months now. I haven't touched it since the day it went in. Flow is good for my 120, I'm only using it on the second highest setting.


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Unfortunately it was out of warranty. I did a complete redo of my sump and ordered all the stuff before using it which took me about 6 months to do. Ordered the 4000 for my skimmer/reactor pump and the 10000 for my return. Best laid plans for a clean well organized sump with two interchangeable pumps failed.
 
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