Aquarium Sump Pump Size Calculator

Pump Flow Rate Formula:

\[ \text{Pump Flow Rate} = \text{Tank Volume} \times \text{Turnover} \]

Pump Flow Rate:

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1. What is the Aquarium Sump Pump Size Calculator?

The Aquarium Sump Pump Size Calculator helps determine the appropriate pump flow rate for your aquarium sump system based on tank volume and desired turnover rate. Proper pump sizing is essential for maintaining optimal water circulation and filtration.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the pump flow rate formula:

\[ \text{Pump Flow Rate} = \text{Tank Volume} \times \text{Turnover} \]

Where:

Pump Flow Rate — Required pump capacity in gallons per hour (GPH)
Tank Volume — Total water volume of your aquarium in gallons
Turnover — Desired number of times the entire tank volume should circulate through the sump per hour

Explanation: The formula calculates the minimum flow rate needed to achieve your desired water turnover rate for effective filtration and circulation.

3. Importance of Proper Pump Sizing

Details: Correct pump sizing ensures adequate water flow for filtration, prevents overflow in the sump, maintains proper water chemistry, and supports healthy aquatic life. An undersized pump leads to poor filtration, while an oversized pump can cause sump overflow and excessive current.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter tank volume in gallons and desired turnover rate (typically 3-10 times per hour depending on aquarium type). Consider head height and plumbing restrictions when selecting your final pump.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical turnover rate for aquariums?
A: Freshwater tanks: 3-5 times per hour; Reef tanks: 10+ times per hour; Fish-only saltwater: 5-8 times per hour.

Q2: How do I account for head height?
A: Add 10-20% to the calculated flow rate for every foot of vertical lift. Check pump performance charts for specific models.

Q3: Should I include sump volume in tank volume?
A: No, use only the display tank volume for turnover calculations. The sump volume is additional system volume.

Q4: What about plumbing restrictions?
A: Elbows, valves, and pipe diameter reduce flow. Add 10-30% to calculated flow rate to compensate for plumbing losses.

Q5: Can I use multiple smaller pumps?
A: Yes, using multiple pumps provides redundancy and allows for adjustable flow patterns in the aquarium.