A/C seawater pump? Other than March?

[bstreep]

OK, I know that our A/C units (and our refrigeration units) run on March pumps. These pumps are quite expensive - like $600. Can anyone see why a pump designed for reef aquarium systems (saltwater environment) wouldn't work as well, for a fraction of the cost? The specs are very similar, including the head pressures:

March Pump: Rated at 900 GPH@1’ head, 820GPH@5’ head, 555GPH@12’ head - maximum head is 21'

Panworld Pump: Rated at 1100 GPH@1’ head, 780GPH@5’ head, 660GPH@12’ head - maximum head is 29'

Street price is $265. And, these pumps have an excellent reputation.

Pan World Magnetic Water Pump

[S/V Alchemy]

I don't know, but as a March pump owner, I sure wouldn't mind reading if you find the answer. I would buy one as a spare at that price. It's a little similar to finding something like the Sherwood F-85 water pump">raw water pump ($500) for $175.

[Paperbird]

The Cal pump is another alternative to consider. Here's where I bought ours:

Marine Pumps by March and CalPump

The 900 gph model is $160. Works great. Can't speak to longevity yet - just installed it a year ago.

[S/V Alchemy]

A year? That's pretty good for a backup pump. Thanks for the tip.