Inline pump selection for python

DrNo

DrNo

Overworked Member...
Jul 9, 2008
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A little help from our experienced AC community please.

I'm tired of wasting water with the python during my weekly water changes. I must run the water constantly for all water changes as a simple gravity drain (or simple suction prime) doesn't work; the distance involved is too great and the aquarium tanks are higher than the faucet. I'd like to install an inline water pump but am unsure which model and gph rating is appropriate for this application. Here are the vitals for the python system:

1) 75 total feet of tubing

2) Inlet AND outlet of water pump must match existing tubing of 5/8" ID or be retrofitted to do so

3) I do a gravel vac with every single water change.... suction created by the pump must be strong enough to lightly disturb substrate, but not too strong as to suction up substrate indiscriminately

Any idea as to what gph rating makes sense here or specific model recommendations? Thanks for the feedback!

DV
 
Gould's pumps for wells would be what you are looking for based on your description. They are not cheap and will pump a 3/4 inch line at 60psi with a nominal flow of 50psi and can handle a 75' run. You can find them at Lowes and Home Depot. They are not continuous run (meaning 24/7) but can be run more than long enough for your needs. The one I have was about $250. You might want to also check out pond pumps as they too can do a higher head. Figure out the total height that the water has to be lifted and add 1/3 again. (12' lift + 4'= 16 ft head minimum)
 
Thanks for the suggestions excuzzzeme! I checked the Home Depot website and found a utility pump option I think will work. I'm a bit concerned about too much suction, but the advantage of a big-box store is the easy return/exchange if i need to downsize. The unit accepts threaded garden hose at 3/4'" so I will have to purchase some thread to barb adapters to use the existing 5/8" ID line.

http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs...3&productId=100067909&N=10000003+90401+503440

In the interim, keep any other options coming.
 
Or, you could drain into a toilet or bathtub, or out a door...got to be something within the 75' length of the python (unless you're in the basement and there's no bathroom).
 
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