Best Aquarium Sump Pump: Review and Buying Guide 2023

An aquarium Sump pump is generally used in the saltwater aquarium, but you can use it in any large tank. Typically, the large tank requires much equipment to keep it clean and healthy. In this case, the sump pump provides space such as a cabinet for holding equipment under the display tank, which is required during the tank maintenance.

A good sump pump is required to ensure continuous water flow in the tank. It is difficult to choose the best sump pump for your aquarium. In this article, we will give you a comprehensive guideline about the sump pump. This article covers everything to select the best sump pump for your aquarium for making the tank ecosystem healthy.

Comparison Table: 9 Best Aquarium Sump Pumps

Homasy 400GPH Submersible Pump

If you are looking for a high-quality aquarium sump pump, then Homasy 400GPH Submersible Pump is the perfect choice for you. It has an adjustable knob for controlling the water flow rate with a maximum flow rate of 400 gallons per hour.

You can easily adjust or control the water pressure by using this pump that you want.  It includes a high-efficiency energy-saving motor that runs using 25-watt energy with a maximum lift height of 6.9 ft.

It features a high-quality motor with two nozzles that provides a calm environment. The impeller shaft is made of corrosion-resistant stainless steel that makes the pump durable and long-lasting.

It also includes 4-physically powerful suction cup with long enough power cord for easy installation; as a result, you can easily place it on the same side of the aquarium either vertically or horizontally.

This excellent submersible sump pump is ideal for aquarium, spout, ponds, fountains, and hydroponic systems, etc. which can circulate and aerate the water, building it more appealing to your fish or other aquarium organisms.

The manufacturer company provides a 12-month warranty and professional after-sale service within 24 hrs.

Pros

• It is a high-quality aquarium sump pump.
• It is easy to set up.
• It has a flow rate of 400 gallons per hour.
• Including a control knob.
• Energy-saving motor.
• Powerful suction cup.
• Ideal for aquarium, spout, ponds, fountains, and hydroponic systems, etc.
• 4-physically powerful suction cup.
• With long enough power cord for easy installation.
• 12-month warranty.
• Long-lasting impeller shaft.

Cons

• It includes only 5.9 ft power cord.

Simple Deluxe Submersible Water Pump with 15′ Cord

If you are seeking for the durable and long-lasting sump pump, Simple Deluxe Submersible Water Pump is the best choice for you because it has non-corrodible polished aluminium oxide ceramic impeller shaft that ensures stable and long pump life. Besides, the shaft is more than three times harder than stainless steel.

The pump includes a prefilter that can prevent waste and debris to enter your pump and help to extend the pump life. The pump provides a maximum flow rate of 1056 gallon per hour with a maximum lift height of 12 feet.

The pump also features an epoxy resin encasement of key internal motor components that prevents an unnecessary conductivity and corrosion of metal parts suitable for use in saltwater.

It is 100% safe for fish and other organisms because it does not expose the copper. It is easy to clean, and in this case, you do not require any tools to disassemble and clean filter/impeller.

The electric cord is 18# gauge copper wire which is covered by a heavy-duty flexible vinyl jacket that resists oil, grease or moisture. It also provides excellent suppleness at all temperatures.

The pump includes three sizes threaded nozzles such as 83 inch, 1.06 inch, 1.34 inch. The outlet and inline nozzles have various thread size. In this case, the inline nozzle has a thicker thread while the outlet has a thinner thread.

The pump also features an epoxy resin encasement of key internal motor components that prevents an unnecessary conductivity and corrosion of metal parts suitable for use in saltwater.

The sump pump can make good circulation and aeration the water which is suitable for fish, turtle and other aquatic organisms.

This submersible pump is appropriate for aquarium, spout, fountains, ponds and hydroponic systems.

As a whole, this Simple Deluxe submersible pump is a quality product which doesn’t require lubrication or special maintenance; as a result, you can save a lot of time and effort.

Pros

• It is easy to use.
• Durable and long-lasting pump.
• Corrosion-resistant.
• The maximum flow rate of 1056 gallon per hour.
• The maximum lift height of 12 feet.
• It includes 100% safety electric cord.
• It is appropriate for aquarium, spout, fountains, ponds and hydroponic systems.
• It is easy to clean.
• You do not require any tools to disassemble and clean filter/impeller.
• Three times harder than stainless steel.
• Suitable for use in saltwater.

Cons

• It can lift a maximum water height of 12 feet.

Fluval Hagen Sea Sump Pump for Aquarium

Fluval Hagen Sea Sump Pump is the best product for you because it is a highly adaptable unit. You can use it for any size aquariums. It also works in both marine and freshwater aquarium with the same efficiency.

It is easy to use, and you can easily place it inside or beside the tank. It is made using super grade materials with ceramic bearings that ensures the long-lasting; as a result, you can serve it for many years.

The pump is designed specifically for your aquarium inhabitants that do not make disturbance your fish, turtle and any other aquarium inhabitants. 

The tank water does not become too warm unpredictably by this pump and always make the tank environment suitable for your delicate species of fish. 

It has a high-quality energy-efficient magnetic drive unit that can not affect the water temperature of the tank. 

The pump always runs cool and transfer low heat into water that makes the tank inside perfect for your fish. The pump is designed for dry use or submersible. Besides, it can powerfully and smoothly keep water flowing between the sump and aquarium and makes the best possible filtration in your tank water.

Fluval Sea Sump Pumps is engineered to deliver and ensure excellent water flow at the rate of up to 1822 gallon per hour. The Fluval Sea Sump Pump is electrically certified for use in a saltwater aquarium.

Pros

• It does transfer low heat that can not affect the water temperature of your aquarium.
• It is designed for use in dry or submersible.
• You can use it for any size aquariums.
• It is easy to use.
• You can easily place it inside or beside the tank.
• It is a long-lasting and durable pump.
• It is suitable for your delicate species of fish.
• It works for both marine and freshwater aquarium with the same efficiency.

Cons

• This pump creates some noise during operation.
• It does not include a filter cap.
• The flow rate is not suitable for some setup.

Aqueon QuietFlow Submersible Utility Pumps

If you are looking for a high-quality pump for your aquarium, then Aqueon Submersible Utility Pump is the perfect choice for you because it is silent, versatile and requires low maintenance.

You can use it for a variety of purposes, and it is perfect for household fountains, aquarium sumps, or extra filtration units and more.

There are many models of this pump in the pet business sector with various adjustable flow rates, making it a good fit for a wide range of sumps and aquariums. In this case, the models AQ400 and AQ1200 have flexible flow rates; models AQ3000 and AQ4000 have a low water level intake connector while models AQ1200 through AQ4000 come with PVC and tubing adapters.

This pump includes a suction cup providing a stable and reliable output that works long and hard with minimal upkeep.

As a whole, it is a right choice for those people who have household fountains to large aquariums that require extra filtration.

Pros

• It is a fully submersible multi-purpose pump.
• High performance.
• It is a silent and versatile pump.
• It requires low maintenance.
• It includes PVC and tubing adapters.
• It is ideal for aquarium sumps and filtration.
• You can also use it for household fountains and more.
• It is safe and secure with suction cups mounting.
• Effective operation.
• It is ideal for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums.
• It is easy to set up.

Cons

• It may raise the water temperature in the sump during operation.

Jebao DCP Sine Wave Water Return Pump

Jebao DCP Sine Wave Water Return Pump is the latest model dip pump that gives you better performance. It features a high-performance motor with innovation electronics saving up to 50% energy than the old model.

It includes dip controller, and you can easily control the pump flow using a controller. It does not produce any sound during operation providing a calm and soundless environment suitable for your fish, turtle and other aquarium organisms.

It requires 55-watt power (110-120v, 60hz) for operation. No copper components are used in the pump, and resistant ceramic shaft included, which makes the long operation life of the pump.

It is a great pump to use internal, which provides the max flow rate of 1710 gallons per hour that makes it the best choice for larger setups. It is also available in smaller and larger sizes in the pet market.

After all, it is a powerful pump that essentially runs because it is made using energy-saving technology.

Pros

• It is the latest model dip pump that gives you better performance.
• It includes a high-performance motor with innovation electronics saving up to 50% energy than the old model.
• It does not produce any sound during operation.
• It requires 55-watt power (110-120v, 60hz) for operation.
• It is a long-lasting and durable pump.
• It provides the maximum flow rate of 1710 gallons per hour.
• Suitable for your fish, turtle and other aquarium organisms.
• It runs cool, and it does not affect the water temperature.

Cons

• The pump is designed only to run internally.
• Occasionally, leaks occur at the point of threads. 
• Sometimes pressure can rise and fall over time.

Eheim Universal Pump 600

Eheim Universal Pump 600 is a world-famous aquarium pump that has exceptional quality and reliable performance. It features a low energy consumption motor which provides quiet and efficient operation.

You can run it externally or internally in both saltwater and freshwater aquariums, making it flexible adequate for most sump setups.

This sump pump from Eheim is made using highest safety standards technology having barb I/O fittings within twist clamp.

The pump includes integrated prefilter that defends the impeller from waste and debris and prevents damage lengthening the lifespan of the pump.

As a whole, the sump pump from Eheim is well known among the aquarium hobbyists due to their reliability.

Pros

• It is a world-famous aquarium pump.
• Low energy consumption motor.
• Quiet and efficient operation.
• It is suitable for both saltwater and freshwater aquariums.
• Barb I/O fittings within twist clamp.
• It includes removable prefilter that defends the impeller from waste and debris.
• It works with a wide range of connections and fixings.

Cons

• The pump is more expensive to purchase.

Uniclife DEP-4000 Controllable DC Water Pump

If you are looking for a high-performance water pump, then Uniclife DEP-4000 Controllable DC Water Pump is the best choice for you. It is an excellent pump from Uniclife, which runs up to 65% less energy than comparable pumps.

It is a reliable pump with a smart controller having 99 Adjustable Speed and 10 minutes pause feed mode. It has three phases 6 poles motor with wear-resistant Ceramic Shaft that makes the motor more stable, long-lasting and durable. It features a memory function that helps to keep the setting the same after each restart.

You can use it for submersible and external, and it is suitable for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums. It makes sure to pour water into the pump before external use.  It can run using 35-watt power that has a maximum flow rate of 1052 gallon per hour with a maximum head of 11.5 feet.

It includes multiple-safe protection system including IC chip control, LACK OF WATER protection, STUCK protection and True Soft Startup that make the pump more reliable among the aquarium enthusiasts.

Pros

• It has a high-performance motor that runs up to 65% less energy than comparable pumps.
• It has a wear-resistant ceramic shaft that helps to extend the life of the pump.
• It includes a memory function system that keeps your settings the same with each restart.
• The pump runs very quietly.
• It can run using 35-watt power that has a maximum flow rate of 1052 gallon per hour. 
• It is an energy-saving pump.
• Suitable for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums.
• You can use it for submersible or external.
• It includes an intake screen that performs as a prefilter to prevent debris and waste intake.

Cons

• The body of the pump is made of plastic which is fragile and will break if it is dropped.

Aquastation Silent Swirl Controllable DC Aquarium Sump Pump

If you are looking for the right device for a fish tank or a coral reef setup, then this unit is the ideal pick for you. The Silent Swirl from Aquastation is a high-performance sump pump suitable for marine and freshwater tanks.

It is a powerful pump that runs with low voltage producing no sound. It has a maximum flow rate of 3100 gallons per hour with a maximum head pressure of 16.5 feet.

It is made of no copper parts making a safe environment for your fish, turtle and other aquatic organisms.

It includes an excellent option for you that is the presence of variable speed control system with up to 20 different speed settings which offer precise modification of water flow for best possible execution.

It has a wear-resistant ceramic shaft making the pump durable and long-lasting.

It is constructed using the sine wave technology, ensuring the silent operation which is much loved by many aquarium enthusiasts.

The Silent Swirl also offers the best possible control and flexibility with 20 different water flow rates. In this way, you can modify performance exactly to match up the size of your aquarium, outdoor pond or waterfall.

It is compatible with freshwater and saltwater aquariums that do not create a sound, but Aquastation Silent Swirl has one downside that is the lack of adapters.

Pros

• It is a right device for a fish tank or a coral reef setup.
• The sump pump is suitable for marine and freshwater tanks.
• It runs with low voltage producing no sound.
• It has a maximum flow rate of 3100 gallons per hour.
• It includes a wear-resistant ceramic shaft.
• It offers the best possible control and flexibility with 20 different water flow rates.
• Durable and long-lasting device.

Cons

• It is not suitable for big-sized tanks.
• Lack of adapters

Jecod/Jebao DCT Marine Controllable Water Pump

It is the best sump pump that has a high-performance motor with innovation electronics ensuring energy saving up to 50% than older models. It is straightforward to set up.

It runs using 30-watt power with a maximum flow rate of 1065 gallon per hour and maximum head pressure of 9.8 feet.

It has a wear-resistant ceramic shaft making the pump durable and long-lasting.

It is made of no copper parts making a safe environment for your fish, turtle and other aquatic organisms.

It features a memory function that helps to keep the setting the same after each restart. It is suitable for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums.

It also features automatic power-off protection upon no water sensor with motor protection if the rotor is blocked.

It also includes an excellent thing is the feed button that momentarily stops the pump and inhibits fish food from getting sucked into the filter. Besides, it has one drawback, that means it does not suppose for external use.

Pros

• High-performance motor.
• Innovation electronics.
• Super quiet operation.
• No copper parts.
• Easy to install.
• Wear-resistant ceramic shaft.
• It is a durable, heavy-duty and long-lasting device.
• Ten-speed mode controller system.
• It is suitable for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums.

Cons

• It is perfect for internal use only.

 Advantage of Sump Pump

• It does free up space inside the display tank.
• It can handle a large volume of water.
• It can increase of stock level in your aquarium.
• It enhances environmental stability in your tank.
• It can save time and hassle during operation.

Why Should You Buy An Aquarium Sump Pump?

The aquarium sump pump is essential for your aquarium due to various reasons. It is usually a useful device to take care of fish in a freshwater or saltwater aquarium. It helps to control the reef or fish in only a display tank.

The sump pump eliminates and disposes of any surface scum and makes the tank water crystal clear.

It helps to raise the water volume and lessen the accumulation of any contaminants.

The sump pump can reduce the water temperature concise time in your aquarium.

The sump pump provides space to keep various devices such as heaters, protein skimmers, and other water monitoring probes.

If you install the sump pump, it will always keep the constant water level in the display tank.

If you add new water or any chemicals into your display tank, the sump will mix all the ingredients uniformly before the display tank demonstrates it.

It helps to boost the oxygenation. In this case, the air is mixed during water enters the sump of the aquarium. Beneficial gas exchange occurs and releases CO₂ by adding O₂.

The sump pump increases water circulation and moves water from the sump pump into the aquarium.

Types of Sump Pump Systems

There are different types of a sump pump. The pedestal pump is affordable, but the motor is not submersible. However, many aquarium lovers use it because it is easily visible above the fish tank while the submersible water pump is costly. In this case, you can place the motor and pump underwater. A lot of aquarium owners prefer this type of sump pump. It is typically less visible in the tank.

Installation Procedure of Sump Pump

You should follow the following most essential steps during the installation of your aquarium:

• You have to wash the aquarium pebbles, ornaments, and rocks  thoroughly;
• You have to connect the airline tubing to any air outlets from the air pump inside the tank;
• The tank should be filled with one-third using room temperature fresh, clean water;
• Some live aquarium or plastic plants should be added to provide a natural environment;
• Then you have to add the rest of the water;
• Near the water flow, the submersible heater should be placed to secure it;
• You have to place the thermometer far away from the heater as possible;

After that, the following steps should be followed carefully:

• Plugin the air pump, the sump pump, the power filter, and the heater and then start them up.
• Carefully check the air outlets and all settings.
• Check and test the sump pump. In this case, you should also check that the water is flowing correctly through the power filter.
• You have to set up the heater with the proper temperature. In this case, the temperature will become stable in the next 24 hours.
• Finally, you should wait for 24 hours to sure that all the equipment is working correctly prior to adding fish in your tank.

What things should I search for while choosing a sump pump?

The following things should be kept in mind when choosing a sump pump:

Is it submerged or dry?

There are submerged, dry or wet sump pumps available in the market. Some sumps pumps are placed in submerge position to work properly while some can work in wet or dry condition. It only depends on your personal first choice. In this case, you have to idea about the different type of sumps pumps and their set up process.

Water Flow Rate

Water flow rate is an important factor to select the sump pump. It depends on how many GPH of flow do you need. In this case, you have to choose the correct flow rate that matches appropriately with your pump. 

Prefilter

Prefilter is a very important tool which can defend the inside of the pump from debris getting in. In many cases, some pump includes prefilter. If it is not included with pump, then you have to buy it separately to maintain the tank environment clean.

Running temperature

During operation of your sump pump, it comes into contact with the aquarium water. In this case, you have to sure that running water temperature is same and it does not influence the tank water temperature.

Sound

Many sumps pumps produce sound and disturb the inhabitants that live in your aquarium. In this case, you have to select the pump carefully that does not produce sound.

Uses of sump

An aquarium sump has the following various uses:

• It is placed usually underneath or next to the main fish tank.
• It makes the water cycle from the aquarium to the sump and back again.
• It also provides extra space to keep all the equipment for your tank needs. 
• It is also used to set up a filtration system increasing the water volume in your tank.
• In this way, it helps to provide a sound and healthy environment in your tanks. 

Concluding Remarks

The aquarium contains several aquatic organisms that need a healthy aquatic ecosystem to thrive. There are many sump pumps available in the pet market at a sensible cost.  Choosing the best sump pump for aquarium is not easy. In this case, you have to idea about selecting an appropriate sump pump. For this reason, we thoroughly reviewed and made a list of the best sump pump. You may get in touch with the above-reviewed article and pick the best one that fulfills your requirement within your budget. 

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