In Line Pump

[DrRob]

Can you run a standard powerhead as an inline pump or does it need to be underwater to not burn out? I've been pondering a project that would use an inline but pretty much everything I can find is a submersible.

 

[OldMan47]

Each pump is its own rule. Some are designed to use the water they are sitting in as cooling while others, like a typical sump pump, do not require external water to keep the motor from overheating. Pumps are made to use in-line with no water around the outside but most of those are not submersible.

 

[DrRob]

That'd be the ones I was looking for. Inline for piping but no designed to be underwater.

 

[OldMan47]

That kind is often found with a pump and motor that are separate. I don't think I have ever seen one in a pet shop. Instead it will be sold by a supply house as a pump for moving liquids from one point to another.You might try a plumbing supply store and ask for what they would consider a very small pump. They should be asking you for desired pumping rates, inlet and outlet tubing sizes and what you will be pumping. Pump seals can be quite different depending on the liquid being moved.