Charles Austen HR Adjustable Water Pumps
Small controllable pumps for aquariums, tanks and gentle water movement
The HR1000, HR1500 and HR2000 are small adjustable pumps for aquariums, nutrient tanks and compact water features. A built-in flow-control dial lets the output be matched to the tank without adding an external valve.
Charles Austen also fits a filter at the pump head, an easy-open impeller cover and sucker feet for mounting on the base or glass. Published maximum flows are 1,050, 1,400 and 1,950 l/h.
These are clean-water circulation pumps. Their size and adjustability are the advantage; they are not designed to carry pond leaves to a filter.
Model Comparison
| Model | Maximum flow | Maximum head | Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| HR1000 | 1,050 l/h | 1.4 m | 17 W |
| HR1500 | 1,400 l/h | 1.8 m | 20 W |
| HR2000 | 1,950 l/h | 1.95 m | 25 W |
Maximum figures are comparison points measured under favourable conditions. Delivered flow falls as head and system resistance increase.
Built-in flow control
The dial is useful where a full-flow jet would disturb fish, plants or nutrient roots. Start low, observe circulation and increase until dead areas disappear without creating excessive turbulence.
Reducing a mechanical dial controls water output but should not be assumed to reduce electricity in the same way as an electronic variable-speed pump.
Mounting and intake care
Sucker feet allow floor or glass mounting on a clean smooth surface. Position the intake away from loose substrate and give the outlet a clear path.
Clean the head filter and impeller chamber whenever the flow becomes uneven or noisy.
Use the smallest model with comfortable reserve
HR1000 suits very modest circulation; HR1500 and HR2000 give more head and turnover. Leave a margin for normal fouling without creating a harsh current.
Our advice: HR is a neat adjustable pump for a tank or small feature. If the water contains pond debris, step up to a screened pond family rather than repeatedly cleaning a tiny intake.
Related Pump and Installation Categories
Charles Austen pump families · Aquarium accessories · Fountain pumps · Pond pipework
Frequently Asked Questions
Are HR pumps adjustable?
Yes. They include a built-in flow-control dial.
Can HR mount on aquarium glass?
Charles Austen supplies sucker feet for base or glass mounting.
Which is the smallest HR pump?
HR1000, at up to 1,050 l/h and 1.4 m maximum head.
Can HR2000 run a small feature?
Yes, if its delivered flow and head suit the feature.
Can HR pump leaves?
No. It is a compact filtered pump for clean water, not a debris-handling pond pump.
Does turning the dial down save power?
Do not assume a proportional saving; it is a mechanical flow adjustment unless the product states otherwise.
Can HR be installed externally?
Charles Austen permits external use when the flooded-suction instructions are followed.
How do I stop vibration on glass?
Clean the suckers and mounting surface and ensure the pump and pipe are not transmitting strain.
Does maximum flow tell me what will reach the filter or waterfall?
No. Maximum flow is measured with little or no head. Lift, pipe length, fittings, hose diameter and connected equipment all reduce delivered flow.
Is maximum head the height at which I get full flow?
No. Maximum head is the shut-off end of the performance curve, where useful flow approaches zero.
Should I use the largest connection possible?
Usually yes. Generous, smooth pipework reduces friction and helps the pump deliver more water for the same electricity.
Can I reduce flow with a valve?
A valve can trim a water-pump output where the instructions allow, but a correctly sized pump or approved controller is normally more efficient than heavy throttling.
How often should I clean the pump?
Inspect it whenever flow falls and as part of routine pond maintenance. Keep the intake, rotor and impeller chamber clear without damaging seals or shafts.
Can you help size a HR pump?
Yes. Send us the required flow, vertical lift, pipe bore and length, major fittings and the equipment the pump will feed.
Why is my real flow lower than the model name?
Model names and maximum-flow figures do not include the resistance of a real installation. A flow test at the return is the best check after installation.
Can this series be installed externally?
The manufacturer describes the range as suitable for submersible or external use, but the exact flooded-suction, priming and weather-protection instructions must be followed.
