Your Guide To Picking The Right Return Pump For Your Saltwater Tank. Cheapest, Most Reliable & More!

If you want to know the best return pump for a saltwater aquarium, we have the answer for you! this is your ultimate guide to reef tank return pumps. From the most popular option to the cheapest and most reliable. We help you find what you're looking for.
All of these return pump options are available at Bulk Reef Supply:
➡ The most popular Return Pumps out there Sicce : www.bulkreefsupply.com/pumps-...
➡ Ryan & Randy's Choice :
www.bulkreefsupply.com/pumps-...
Legal Stuff
The content contained in this video is general information on the topic and should not be relied upon as your sole source of information or safety advice for this project or topic. Each product or situation is different and has its own concerns related to successful completion and safety that must be fully researched by the individual considering the project or product. The purpose and content of this video is to provide general information regarding the products and their applications as presented in the video. Aquatic sales solutions, Inc. And its officers, directors, employees and agents disclaim all express or implied warranties, in any way, related to the products and their application as presented in this video, make no representation or warranty regarding the products and the application as presented in this video and shall not be liable for any direct or indirect losses or damages of any type, including but not limited to punitive damages, or from personal injury or death resulting from or in any manner related to the video, and the products in and contents of the video. The viewer expressly agrees that aquatic sales solutions, inc. And its officers, directors, employees and agents shall not be liable for any damages or losses related to the products in and content of the video and hereby agrees to hold the foregoing harmless from any such losses or damages.
00:00 - Introduction
00:22 - Best Seller
01:02 - Best Seller (DC Pumps)
01:46 - Best Seller (High End)
02:07 - Ryan and Randy's Favorite
02:50 - Cheapest
03:29 - Quietest
05:14 - Most Reliable
07:15 - Most Reliable (AC vs. DC)
08:15 - Reliability Considerations - Warranty
09:38 - Most Height
12:10 - Most Accurate GPH
14:22 - High End - Red Dragon or Abyzz
17:28 - Smallest
19:16 - Other Considerations - Auto Shut-off
21:34 - Other Considerations - Cut GPH in Half
22:35 - Other Considerations - 10x Turnover Not Needed
25:42 - Other Considerations - Internal vs. External
26:56 - Other Considerations - When Going External
28:05 - Other Considerations - Notifications
30:27 - Other Considerations - Register for Warranty

[@flipsreef8618]

Good to see that Randy is alive and well after chugging that treat earlier

[@timothydillard9507]

I just hit “like” at the beginning of every BRS video. I trust the content is gonna be on point. Thanks for video fellas

[@goaski474]

Planning a 500g reef - Tuning overflow via the DC controller - priceless info - always learning from you guys, THANKS!

[@hurricaneaquatics]

One of the better videos. Excellent information guys!

[@djmikefury1]

Hydros Controller really works well the Octo VarioS pumps and uses the 0-10v connection for further sensitive adjustments. When you go to 0-10v functionality, you would use Hydros's eye sensor to monitor water level in the return pump chamber. It'll send you messages either in SMS text, push notifications, emails etc depending on how you want to be informed and can also shut down the pump so it doesn't burn out. I have to honestly say that I'm thoroughly impressed how easy their controllers are to use and they're coming out with new products every month.

[@brandong530]

I was looking for a pump I needed this video🤧 it came in time

[@innerpeacefindings671]

I really love BRS TV everything is useful and theknowledge and everything Thank you guys.

[@Fish_Ventura]

Thanks guys, love all of your content.. everything last 5 years. Much love,, have a S-Ton of stuff in my shopping cart

[@Fish_Ventura]

Love LOVE the early Ryan stuff,, who was the other dude with you back I. The day?

[@berniemorris7997]

Wow what a great video so much good info. Great job. Learn a lot. 👍

[@rossreefuk9361]

I really wanted S2 for my tank but decided the float switch on the varios gave me more confidence it would not run dry. I installed it last week its a bit louder than I thought it would be for a DC but overall still happy with my choice.

[@Litrocks13]

Randy, I need that shirt! I can never find brs merch on the site when I see you sportin something cool... The warehouse tour yesterday was awesome! Love you guys!

[@MiddleAgedMike]

Agreed, I want one too

[@HeavyGun1450]

Reef Octopus Varios, been rock solid with no issues for 4 years now!

[@jrink0]

Just ordered my first reef tank last night and was planning on going shopping for a pump and equipment this weekend. Thanks for the video!

[@gentlemanreefer6105]

Any opinion on Jebao/Jecod? I have had only positive experiences up to now. Thank you for the info you share. Keep up with the good work. Greetings from Lake Geneva, Switzerland

[@SchleimBall]

i missed u guys❤️

[@randyklaus3615]

My first Syncra SDC 6.0 water pump was very quiet but then the flow rate would change about every 4 to 8 hours from good to way to fast so I returned it and the second and the third one is very noisy so far, I'm not too happy with this pump looking for a different one? I realy like the pump features but I hate the noise can't have it in the family room it's now in the back room where no one go's.

[@Stephenkillam]

I have the mighty jet dc pump. That thing is a beast

[@MrCites1]

The Red Dragon 2 was Abyzz originally, it was manufactured by Schunk in Germany for Royal Exclusiv, then Abyzz became Triton, and then it became Abyzz.

[@greygoose117]

I had to run my jebao DC pump externally and it’s as quiet as a mouse running full blast

[@alexlancaster7681]

I'm looking at setting up a 6ft tank next year. My question is is it overall volume or display volume when working out the turn over. Logically overall volume makes the most sense.

[@Wiljuchi]

Great video but you forgot to mention the Sicce SDC is now apex ready using IOTA.

[@matsteel2292]

I have a Core 20 and every time I use the feed mode or turn the pump off I have to spend a day retuning my gate valve to silence it as it never powers back up to the same setting.

[@alexchappelear]

if you have 2 pumps running to supply 3 tanks that all flow back into 1 giant shared sump, how do you plumb the 2 pumps, can their pipes become one by using a T fitting or will the pumps push against each other? or would I have to have 3 small pumps each with its own line going to each tank? thank you

[@OriginalMindTrick]

Using two pumps for your sump is a good idea to avoid a crash if one breaks. Having them run with a backup electric system is also advised if you have expensive things you want to keep alive.

[@Physics072]

I run a sinewave ups for one powerhead in a 330 but its only good for like 6 hours. If i lost power for days = dead fish call insurance company. But in 15 years using iwaki and panworld pumps never had one go bad. They just run a little hotter due to bearings again. I would not trust one of those plastic pumps with computers for my main return. Iwaki and pans don't fail like those do.

[@jimjumbuka4161]

It would be great to know more about energy consumption/efficiency. I have am older RedSea max250 and I it's time to upgrade... not sure if the Cicce will fit

[@Jaywil07]

Sicce SYNCRA ADV AC pump with the consumption of a dc pump

[@truereefkeeping6022]

I bought the cor-15 from you guys, the main reason is because it’s HIGHLY controllable I can change the speed 1% at a time and when you have a EXTREMELY TOUCHY overflow you need that controllability and it just happens to be literally the only pump that can do that, I almost went with the reef octopus VARIOS, and I for sure can’t afford a red dragon nor do I think it’s worth the hype anyway, a return pump can only be so good and I doubt I would get 10 years or more out of a red dragon pump, to bad your always out of stock of the Neptune flow meter kit

[@tdadarwala]

Any idea on how many khw the Blueline 100 HD External Water Pump uses in 24 hours?

[@koolaidman823]

Need the shirt randy has one. You guys need more brs swag options.

[@gewglesux]

DC is it for me.... new Tech..

[@DDDarkz]

Purchased my Abyzz A400 back in 2016, the pump finally died today, got over 7 years out of this pump is good enough for me, but with a 10 year warranty, I will give it a shot with Abyzz on the warranty process. Pump internal seems fine (I can still turn it by hand), but I can smell the burn from the rear cable port, perhaps water finally got it there over these years. I used to have reeflo pumps, but they leak crazy regardless of the models, I'd still go with Abyzz over reeflo since it is installed inside my sump all the way in the basement. Just my experience up to point.

[@davidromba3584]

When you do a two-pump setup, do you just duplicate the main pump, go with a smaller one for the second, or do you do two "half sized" pumps to get your desired total flow rate?

[@BRStv]

Most reefers will opt to pick two pumps that will give them the overall flow rate that they're looking for. In the event that one of them fails, the flow rate will be decreased, but the other will keep enough water flowing to keep the filtration and life support system connected to the main display.

[@therevanchist1123]

I would say if you can’t fit two return pumps it wouldn’t hurt to have an extra still lying in back up.

[@akira3871]

If I buy a DC pump will I need to buy a power converter so I can plug it into my surge protector?

[@BRStv]

DC pumps will come with an AC/DC adapter, so they'll plug into a standard wall outlet 😀

[@JH-qv3xf]

Thank you so much for sharing this video. i have a very small return sump and needed an 2nd return and you helped me decide what to buy. but everything is out of stock. BOO. My dream is the NEPTUNE dream system bundle. if you read can you let me know when its back in stock and if youll honor the black friday or cyber Monday sales because i really need 2 and 3 extra doses, ro tubbing, so i can set up myo saltwater and rodi and freshwater mixing station in my garage. i do need to know what external pump i can plumb into the plumbing in the garage that will lift 9 feet and go all thru 16 Aquariums for auto water top off and auto water changes. i know PVC will be running everywhere but it would be so nice to have the neptune systems on my salt water tanks which i want 3 and with a puch of a button on the app boom start the impossible become real. my dreams are extravagant but im tired of lugging buckets and i cant lift them anymore. what are your recommendations for setting up this type of system and a pump or 2-3 or more pumps needed. i currently plan on using python system to drain im going to drain into my sewer access drain or shower or tub. but i need options and i would rather it look nice and not like a crazy pvc running lady trash house apperance. but maintaining these many tanks is my hobby and makes me so happy but it seems harder and harder to get fish and supplies. thanks for your advive. my house is 1700 square feet and there are tanks in 6 rooms. multiple tanks in each room.

[@Songs4712]

Can two pumps inline increase pressure and flow this is how pumps work on a large scale with high-rise buildings

[@Utubereefer]

Sicce is the pump for me

[@michaelchanthalangsy7039]

I've heard different stories with how loud they get...any insight?

[@Utubereefer]

I use the a/c pumps. They’re priced right and the sound is minimal. I had to replace one after four years running non stop because it started to get a little vibration noise. Glad to buy another to replace it tho.

[@stucody]

I has freshwater 750lt tank and seriously considering the maxspect turbine or the SYNCRA SDC 9 but can’t make my mind up? I plan to start a marine tank at some point soon.

[@BRStv]

Either pump will be more than enough flow for a marine tank of that size. There is quite a price difference between those two pumps, so cost may be a factor, depending on your budget. But if not, we have had really good luck with the Sicce pumps over the years and the 5 year warranty (assuming you register the pump when you get it) is nice to have, even if you don't need to use it.

[@npg4339]

Hello BRS TV!! congratulations for your channel, I have learned a lot watching your videos. Taking advantage of your experience, please help me to answer a question: I have a small mixed aquarium of 300 L (including sump) and I am going to renew the return pump, in the market (Mexico) the available options are: Vectra S2 or Octopus VisionS2 or VisionS4. Which of those options do you recommend? Thanks for replying and congratulations again. Cheers

[@BRStv]

The Vectra S2 or VarioS-4 will give you the most flexibility in terms of flow rate and are similarly priced. If you like having app control over your pump, the Vectra is going to be your best bet, but both pumps also have an included controller as well.

[@npg4339]

@@BRStv thank you very much!! I appreciate the comment. Cheers

[@carlosbarajas382]

How do I now how many gallons per hour I got a 55 g and a 20 g sump overflow rate is 150 g per hour please help

[@carlosbarajas382]

The overflow is rated for 150 g per hour

[@melodic_breezy]

Hey guys hope your well. Not exactly return pump related but I have ordered a 60 gallon Waterbox Marine X and was wondering if a single Vortech MP10 would be sufficient enough flow, it will be home for softy and LPS coral, my return pump will be 1000 gl/h.

[@BRStv]

It looks like the glass thickness on that tank is 1/2", so unfortunately, the MP10 won't work as it has a max glass thickness of 0.375". If you're set on the Vortech pumps, you'd want to size up to the MP40.

[@melodic_breezy]

@@BRStv I don’t know why I didn’t check this 🙈. BRS going above and beyond again to give the best and most accurate info available, thanks guys 👌

[@ex_exparrot4663]

*Alright, goal's always for you to say: "Hey, that's for me."*, Literally as I'm adding a Siccee to a buy list for a budget 20gal AIO. The BRS TV Pipeline is REAL

[@pt7788n]

get SKIMZ pump ..they are reliable and quite.. i got 6 unit.. model QP 6/9/12 all is work best inside sump.

[@BRStv]

Unfortunately, Skimz is no longer in business.

[@MrCites1]

Flowfriend are unmatched from Germany… They almost double Abyzz for flow and energy consumption.

[@caseypeploe1273]

Never heard of them before might have to give them a try

[@lisafoster4468]

Personally, I want the lowest price of the most reliable. Had three pumps die on me in about a four-five month period, and I'm definitely not keen to go through that again.

[@jacobside2656]

Abyzz hands down

[@rajgill7576]

My tired brain read "buy pumps return guide"

[@marcelrodriguez2067]

Where the jebaos at? 😂 never had issues with them and i always have multiples for the price of one of these just incase.

[@greygoose117]

Yes I have them too, very quiet DC pumps

[@Team83Redfish]

Not on their site. I’m sure if it was it probably be a huge seller!!

[@landandaquatics8180]

Where can I get the red dragon to purchase

[@shipmate3577]

Get a Jebao and save your money.

[@tashfiqmannan]

Not including budget options like jebao makes it seem like you guys are biased to your money making products

[@ArnoldosAquariums]

Jabeo only allows certain people to sell IIRC.

[@Physics072]

Not one Panworld or Iwaki is telling. I've tried most of them and the DCs ones have a weakness the computer controller if it goes bad and they do the pump is OFF = Dead fish. I've had Lil giants, Panworld, Blue lines and Iwaki. You will get 10 years + of not doing anything to them they just run very robust and do not burn out from power fluxuations. They might draw a little more current but they are more reliable.

[@seanhuber442]

Hey Guys, you don't have the new Pump from Royal Exclusiv ....

[@thomaskamp9365]

If I have fish and corals in the aquarium that cost several thousand dollars, then there is only one pump. Abyzz, because it never breaks.

[@user-pr9cg5if3c]

did i just read 1500 for a pump??? lol crazy id never ever pay that regardless if my aquarium cost a million dollars. i have had a pump for 3 years now been running 24 hours a day 365 never failed silent and cost less than 200 bucks

[@TJXIONG]

Funny how they promote Neptune's Cor. But when you look at the BRS reviews and other KZbin videos everyone bashing the COR because it sucks! Hmz???

[@clintparsons3989]

My cor leaked right outta the box...

[@lunes-1]

👍👈

[@Trickmanii]

Seals burn out...on Externals like the reefflo

[@eraserajm]

Anyone else notice brs got bought out by apex ?

[@d.johnson4998]

Makes one wonder if you can trust any reviews when their product is involved.

[@jamesparrott2073]

Vectra didn't win anything... and mine was delivered today... dang

[@BRStv]

The Vectras are great pumps! 😁

[@jamesparrott2073]

@@BRStv agreed. I didn't realize how tiny the S2 was too.

[@ponyman1969]

1 month later. How do you like the vectra?

[@ajsreef1034]

Ecotech not getting much love these days :P

[@Fish_Ventura]

Support....

[@MiddleAgedMike]

Hate to be cynical but, seems like as soon as ecotech stopped playing so nicely with apex BRS has started to ignore them a bit. Not bash them but ignore.

[@ajsreef1034]

@@MiddleAgedMike guess neptune paying brs more to push their products.

[@ponyman1969]

I was thinking the same thing. Hardly mentioned

[@ronniekregar3482]

Im not sure I'm alone in this feeling, but I hate SICCE pumps. In fact, I really think a class action lawsuit needs to be brought against them for false advertising. They are the LOUDEST pumps I ever owned. I tried rubber mats, styrofoam, taking apart my stands and putting them back together with silicone, rubber dampeners, everything. I tried EVERYTHING. I wouldn't take a SICCE pump now if you gave it to me for free. The fact that SICCE has the nerve to put silent in their name is what is making me so daam salty.

[@sicceus1249]

Ronnie - I run the North American division for Sicce. We take pride in the quality of our products, so to hear about an experience like you've had is upsetting to say the least. My email is [e-mail] - PLEASE reach out to me on Monday and let's jump on a call. I'll make this right for you. There's a reason we outsell the competition 4 to 1 - once we figure out your situation, I promise you'll know exactly why. I look forward to learning more about your experience next week. - Steve

[@kreesdqban]

Also not a fan of Sicce AC pumps. I've gone through many frustrating days with customer service trying to convince them their pumps are loud. Customer service was pretty good though.

[@ronniekregar3482]

@@kreesdqban yeah man, I just don't get it. And everyone who wants to upgrade their pump is automatically like "I gotta get a SICCE pump" and it just boggles my mind. I've bought multiple pumps thinking it was something I did wrong and each time I was expecting a different. result. Nope...I think they outsell the other pumps by default. All that really means is they spend more money on marketing than they do on research and development. And I'm not a cheap person, but those cheap Chinese Aquatop pumps don't make a peep. I just don't get it... personally, I've never called their customer service, so I can't speak to that

[@spam_world20ege]

Джикод от джебао всем помпам напихает по цене качеству удобству тишине

[@YouBetterCallSaul]

Can we please get a “UHH” counter? This has to be a new record

[@kreesdqban]

😂

[@Swany86]

at 25:04 my varios 8 power pack melted...after 7 months it is dead dont buy it...im starting to thing AC pumps are just better

[@SinCityCorals]

How long you had? I have Dual varios 8 on my display for 10 months.

[@tempbamboo8548]

What is the most reliable option? ...... two pump in pair... but wait.. no.. should be.... two pump plus UPSs... yeah!! but wait.. no.. it should be two pumps plus two UPSs... yeah yeah! what a logic..

[@creeper2479]

$1500 for a pump hahaha I’d rather go without a sump.

[@BRStv]

Remember, there are less expensive options too 😉

[@andrewlynam2007]

I feel that you guys always push the most expensive products

[@BRStv]

If inexpensive is criteria #1, check out the 2:50 min mark of this video 🙂