Using a pump with a python?

[ajm1961]

This may have been posted before, but I'm looking for a way to do water changes more quickly. I have a 135 gallon tank that's about 35 feet away from the nearest drain. When using a python, I prime it by running the faucet (to which it is connected) as prescribed. But this ends up wasting a lot of water in the process. I usually end up shutting the faucet once the ose is primed, relying mainly on gravity and pressure - but it is painfully slow - a 50% water change can take 30 minutes or more...
I've heard that some of you connect the python or a hose to a Mag pump to drain the water more quickly. The only issue I'm afraid of is that the pump will be damaged by the fine sand in the tank, as well as the debris.
Any suggestions?

[Darth]

I use my maxijet for water changes but it's only a few feet, I alson dont vacuum the sand though but so far no ill effects

[FishBuddy]

This may have been posted before, but I'm looking for a way to do water changes more quickly. I have a 135 gallon tank that's about 35 feet away from the nearest drain. When using a python, I prime it by running the faucet (to which it is connected) as prescribed. But this ends up wasting a lot of water in the process. I usually end up shutting the faucet once the ose is primed, relying mainly on gravity and pressure - but it is painfully slow - a 50% water change can take 30 minutes or more...
I've heard that some of you connect the python or a hose to a Mag pump to drain the water more quickly. The only issue I'm afraid of is that the pump will be damaged by the fine sand in the tank, as well as the debris.
Any suggestions?

My python was hooked up with a Mag 7 and it works fine....  And if I don't need to vacumn the gravel, I sinked the entire Mag 7 with the sponge pre-filter right into the tank....