The Compact Size of Extreme Power – EcoTech Vectra S1 Return Pump Review.

When describing a reef tank, I imagine it as a human body. Just like us, your aquarium features a variety of internal organs, or in this case, pieces of equipment. While each system is independent, they must all work in unison to create a healthy, functioning and vibrant reef tank.

Continuing with this thought, if your tank was a person, the return pump is its heart. This vital piece of your aquarium anatomy pumps water from the sump back into the main display tank, which provides constant water circulation between your main tank and sump filtration system.

Throughout my years studying, working with and instructing novice reefers about this wonderful hobby, I’ve learned that many aquarists make one common mistake. They choose a return pump solely based on tank water volume.

Don’t get me wrong, this is an important characteristic, but it is only one of many capabilities of this vital tank equipment. With so many responsibilities, it’s essential to take your time to not only understand exactly what a return pump does, but also to carefully make your selection.

Thankfully, the reefing industry is almost overflowing with acceptable pumps. While this increases the likelihood of finding a solid performing pump, it can also make your selection process difficult.

If you’re like me, and so many other aquarists, you desire efficiency, stability and (useful) innovation. When I speak about return pumps, there’s only one product that comes to mind: the EcoTech Marine Vectra S1.

Developed by one of the most advanced aquarium equipment manufacturers Ecotech Marine, the Vectra S1 is a flexible device I’ve found works well under a variety of conditions.

Although there are many other comparable and equally capable return pumps, I recommend starting your search with this product. Why do I enjoy this pump over many others? Well, let’s take a journey together and explore its features and technologies. Afterwards, you’ll clearly see exactly why the Vectra S1 is swiftly becoming the go-to return pump for serious reefers.

Small Doesn’t Mean Sluggish - EcoTech Vectra S1 Review.

When the Vectra M1 and L1 flooded the market, it was an exciting time for aquarists. These pumps quickly rose to the top in terms of efficiency and capabilities. However, there was a problem. Both devices were quite large, which meant not every tank could handle its power.

It was only a matter of time until a smaller Vectra would rush into the marketplace. As we eagerly waited for the release of the Vectra S1, EcoTech was busy refining and optimizing the original Vectra design.

Unlike other miniaturized aquarium equipment, EcoTech set out to ensure its smaller version remained just as powerful and capable as its popular M1 and L1 series. This, evidently, was a greater challenge than anticipated.

Due to its compact size, its functionality required significant fine-tuning. With larger devices, critical components have ample room for movement. However, the shrunken design of the S1 meant each moving part had to operate with precision. Otherwise, the pump would spend more time in the shop than in your tank.

So, while EcoTech refined its approach to creating a world-class return pump, the rest of us had to patiently wait. If you’ve seen the Vectra S1 in action, then you realize that the waiting was worth it.

Before diving into its features and capabilities, let’s start with the basics.

Elements of Pumping Perfection - Vectra S1 Specifications.

To say the Vectra S1 is a good pump is a dramatic understatement. Out of all comparable pumps, this device blows the rest out of the water.

As with all three Vectra products, which includes the M1 and larger L1 models, the S1 features built-in wireless functionality. While we’ll discuss this is greater detail later, essentially, this feature supports wireless pump control.

With a maximum flow of 1,400 GPH (gallons per hour), or 5,300 LPH (liters per hour), the S1 offers ample power for a variety of tanks. Speaking of power, it offers an impressive 55 Watts power draw. This is quite good for such a compact design.

The maximum head pressure is 11.5 feet, or 3.5 meters, and its fittings are as follows:

• Input: 1-inch (25 mm)
• Output: 0.75-inch (19mm)

In terms of it size, the Vectra S1 is shockingly small. With a footprint measuring 3.5 x 6-inches, I really appreciate how little real estate the pump requires. Its compact size fits most return pump chambers, yes, even those found in compact sump designs.

The Vectra S1 features a solid white body highlighted with darker blue accents. Not only does its size keep its visual impact at a minimum, but the color of its waterproof shell is as attractive as you can get with a return pump. Ultimately, I feel just because a filtration system isn’t the main star of your aquarium doesn’t mean it can’t look sexy. And, based on the Vectra’s design, it appears EcoTech agrees.

Now that we’ve covered the essentials, let’s get down to business and discuss exactly why the Vectra S1 is a top choice among serious reefers as Vectra M1 and L1.

The Effortless Flow of Innovation - Vectra S1 Configurations.

If you’re just starting out in this wonderfully watery hobby, then you may be thinking, “Okay, so a return pump just returns water. No big deal.”

Well, in the most elementary sense, this is true. A return pump does return water from the sump to the main display, but its actual functionality and capabilities are so much more than a simple delivery system.

This vital piece of equipment may seem simplistic, but let’s briefly touch on the basic purpose and functionality of a return pump.

Firstly, unlike some other tank systems, your return pump generally operates 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. This should immediately let you know that whatever pump you choose must be built for durability and longevity. With such extended, or better yet, constant work, cheaply made return pumps are destined to fail.

Secondly, don’t think of a return pump as a piece of maintenance equipment. Rather, elevate its importance in your mind. In the most fundamental sense, return pumps act as a life support system for your entire tank. Without it, you’d simply have a giant tank of lifeless water.

As you can see, this unimposing pump is far more important than efficiently transporting water. It literally is the heart of any aquarium. Its actions pump water for greater filtration capabilities while sustaining the active environment of your tank.

So, how does the EcoTech Vectra S1 support life, filtration and oxygenation? It all begins with its capabilities.

This single device offers four specific uses, or configurations. These include:

Return Pump or Submersible - As the name suggests, the hallmark of this setup is where the pump is installed. As you can guess, the pump is submerged in your sump (return chamber) and pushes water into the main display. This creates constant water circulation. The main benefits of this setup is its quiet operation, especially when compared to the inline setup.

Closed Loop - Essentially, when the Vectra S1 is used in a closed loop system, it’s done so purely for circulation. Water enters the pump through the inlet pipes and then exits back into display tank through the outlet pipe. Closed loop systems, or CLS, is purely to boost water flow/circulation as a powerhead with three different modes: Lagoonal Random, Reef Crest Random and Gyre Mode.

Inline Pump - Also called external pump system, the function of this configuration is to assist moving water between your sump and the primary display tank. The most notable benefit of this setup is it reduces display tank water heat. However, you’re typically required to drill additional holes in the sump tank for its pipes. Also, I feel it’s worth nothing this setup is typically louder than the next setup.

The Modality of Life Support - Vectra S1 Operation Modes.

While the inline and submersible configurations are relatively straightforward in its operation, the other two designs offer a variety of modes. Think the function of a return pump is a simple input-output flow? Think again!

Both the return pump and closed loop configuration offer three distinct operational modes. I’ve found these to be effective and extremely easy to manipulate.

When using the Vectra S1 in return pump mode, you may choose between the following options:

Constant Speed  - When you activate the pump without adjusting settings, this is the default mode. The speed of this constant flow is controlled by the pump dial.

Feed Mode - Unlike other return pumps, which are limited in its interaction level with tank ecosystems, the Vectra S1 works with tank activity rather than alongside it. This mode clearly demonstrates its intertwining functionality. When activated, its operation pauses to allow feeding. This allows food to enter the tank without being sucked into the overflow/filtration tank. 

Speed Lock - Have you ever accidentally adjusted a setting on a piece of tank equipment? If so, then you understand the frustration and potential unsavory effects that can occur from a simple accident. This mode disables the speed dial and literally locks the flow speed.

While the EcoTech VorTech QuietDrive flow pump is among the most precise water movement devices on the market, should you wish to use the Vectra S1 in a similar manner, the closed loop configuration offers three flow modes:

Lagoonal Random - Designed to slowly and gently replicate water currents found in still lagoon environments.

Reef Crest Random - Perfectly replicates swift-moving currents associated with oceanic reef ecosystems. This constantly changing water flow setting is preferred by SPS corals, which thrive under the erratic movement conditions of waves and tides.

Gyre - This is a constantly changing flow pattern of alternating counterclockwise and clockwise movement.

Precision and Control - Vectra S1 Noteworthy Features.

Before closing out, I wanted to discuss a few of my favorite features. While some offerings are similar to almost any other high-grade return pump, the Vectra S1 delivers a host of unique and refined features.

Perhaps the greatest feature offered by the Vectra S1 is its automatic tank calibration technology. Essentially, this setting prevents accidental back siphoning and perfectly configures flow rates when Feed Mode is activated. Not only is this a major timesaver, but it’s an awesome feature for novice aquarists.

Another minor feature I think’s worth mentioning is the battery backup. While this feature requires the EcoTech Battery Backup system, which is sold separately, it’s definitely worth the investment. Much like a power generator, should your main power source go out, this system keeps your tank happy and healthy.

Size Really Doesn’t Matter - Vectra S1 Final Thoughts.

Whether you’re a novice reefer, or an experienced aquarist, the EcoTech Vectra S1 offers a level of precision capable of boosting your overall tank health and operation efficiency.

As a professional reefer, I’m always on the hunt for the next great innovation. With a solid design, refined feature capabilities and necessary flexibility, few return pumps are as capable as the Vectra S1.

What are your thoughts about this device? Have you used it before? Let us know by heading over to our Facebook page and leaving us a comment or send a message.

As always, the entire Reef Hacks team is here to answer your questions or help guide you to the perfect device for your setup. Happy Reefing!

by Yuliya Ivanova for ReefHacks.