Brand

Charles Austen HX88 Circulation Pumps

Submersible or flooded-external pumps from 650 to 8,000 litres per hour

HX88 is one of the broadest Charles Austen clean-water ranges. Ten models cover 650 to 8,000 l/h, so the same family can serve an aquarium, hydroponic system, formal feature or screened pond circulation.

The manufacturer specifies submersible or external use, thermal protection and an aluminium-ceramic shaft able to tolerate small particles. A front filter intake helps protect the impeller.

Standard HX88 models are the circulation versions. If a fountain bracket and fountain duty are required, compare the closely related HX88F category.

Model Comparison

Model Maximum flow Maximum head Power
HX8808 650 l/h 1.2 m 8 W
HX8810 1,050 l/h 1.4 m 12 W
HX8815 1,400 l/h 1.8 m 20 W
HX8820 1,950 l/h 1.95 m 25 W
HX8825 2,400 l/h 2.15 m 35 W
HX8830 2,900 l/h 2.3 m 45 W
HX8840 4,000 l/h 3.0 m 70 W
HX8850 4,900 l/h 3.3 m 95 W
HX8860 5,800 l/h 4.1 m 130 W
HX8890 8,000 l/h 5.0 m 200 W

Maximum figures compare the models. Real flow falls as lift, pipe friction and connected equipment add resistance.

Choose the lower, middle or upper group

HX8808–HX8820 suit aquariums and modest circulation. HX8825–HX8840 cover larger tanks and small features. HX8850–HX8890 provide the head and flow for larger features or screened pond returns.

The curve, connection size and intended solids tolerance should be checked on the exact product.

Submersible or flooded external use

External installation must keep the pump inlet flooded and airtight. It is not self-priming. Use unions and isolation so the front screen and impeller can be reached.

For submerged use, position the screen above settled grit and away from blanket weed.

HX88 or HX88F?

The hydraulic range is closely related. HX88 is the normal circulation choice; HX88F is presented as the fountain version with bracket/attachment option.

Our advice: choose the category by installation purpose, then choose the model by delivered flow. Do not pay for a fountain arrangement if all you need is a return pump.

Related Pump and Installation Categories

HX88F fountain versions · Charles Austen pump families · Dry-mounted pumps · Pond pipework

Frequently Asked Questions

Can HX88 be installed externally?

Yes, using the correct flooded-suction arrangement.

Is HX88 self-priming?

No. An external installation must keep the inlet flooded.

What is the largest current model?

HX8890 at up to 8,000 l/h and 5.0 m maximum head.

What is the difference from HX88F?

HX88F is the fountain-oriented version with the fountain bracket/attachment option.

Can HX88 pass solids?

The manufacturer describes tolerance of small particles, but it is not a large-solids pond-filter cage.

Does it have thermal protection?

Yes. Charles Austen lists an integrated thermal protector.

Can HX8808 run an aquarium?

Yes, where its 650 l/h maximum flow and current suit the tank.

Can HX8890 feed a waterfall?

Potentially, after checking its curve at the total lift and pipe resistance.

Does maximum flow tell me what reaches the outlet?

No. Maximum flow is measured at little or no head. Lift, pipe length, fittings and connected equipment reduce delivered flow.

Is maximum head the height for full flow?

No. It is the shut-off end of the curve, where useful flow approaches zero.

Should I use the largest practical pipe bore?

Yes. Generous, smooth pipework usually improves real flow and efficiency.

Can I throttle the pump with a valve?

Where permitted, a valve can trim flow, but heavy throttling wastes performance. Correct sizing or approved electronic control is preferable.

How often should the pump be cleaned?

Inspect and clean the intake and impeller whenever output falls and during routine pond maintenance.

Can you help me choose the model?

Yes. Send us the desired flow, vertical lift, pipe bore and length, fittings and connected filter or feature.

Why is my flow lower than the model name?

The model figure is a maximum comparison point, not the delivered flow through a real installation.