How to Choose the Right Powerhead for your Reef Aquarium

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Bulk Reef Supply - Saltwater Aquariums

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mdshop.us/1mWbIuW Water flow in a reef aquarium is absolutely crucial to create a healthy environment for the animals inside the tank. Wild reefs are naturally very turbulent and creating natural flow patterns will help keep debris suspended in your tank, promote proper gas exchange, and help deliver food and nutrients to your tank inhabitants.
When building a reef tank, submersible pumps often called “powerheads” are used to create water movement inside the tank. In this video, we are going take the guesswork out of shopping for powerheads and show you guys how to choose the appropriate powerheads for your tank.
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Пікірлер: 99

@thecasualreefer2328 8 жыл бұрын

spot on video guys!

@ROTTERtube 8 жыл бұрын

good video thanks

@jesterscorner879 6 жыл бұрын

I run the Koralia Hydor 3rd Gens in my 90 gallon (a pair of 1950gph) and they do well. I had a 2450gph and it did nothing but create a sandstorm in my tank no matter how I placed or angled it.

@mariatran614 6 жыл бұрын

Can I use eflux wave pump instead of those pumps?

@ragulkumar9284 4 жыл бұрын

I got 5”2x2 foot freshwater aquarium it’s consuming 540 ltr(142 gallons ) water so how much capacity power wave makers I should buy

@georgeel-qasses564 8 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the info. I have a corner 54 gal tank. Where is the best place to place a water heads

@BulkReefSupply 8 жыл бұрын

Corner tanks are a little tricky simply because of the shape. I have had good luck placing one powerhead on each of the back walls for a total of two pumps.

@harry4965 4 жыл бұрын

I have a 8 gallon reef tank what should I choose ? Won’t the glass crack of water is too powerfull

@sloppyjoe9927 4 жыл бұрын

Which one should I use for a 20 gallon ?

@pavan06061987 6 жыл бұрын

3 feet length and 2 feet height 18' width what capacity of aquarium waver should I take

@Mr5Stars 8 жыл бұрын

thanks or the video,can you elaborate more in positioning and how low or high to place the pwerheads. thanks

@BulkReefSupply 8 жыл бұрын

+Max Power Thanks for watching. This is all based on your tank, with so many factors that come into play it is difficult to make an exact recommendation. With a bit more detail about your tank, I can help you further. The most typical positioning would be one pump and each side of your tank, one placed towards the top and one towards the bottom. With that in mind, be careful not to place the pumps too close to the sand or else you will end up with a sandstorm. The same goes for the top, if the pump is too close to the surface it will pull air from the surface and shoot bubbles into your tank. After the initial placement of your pumps, observe your tank and adjust as needed in an attempt to eliminate any dead-spots or areas of low water flow.

@glenngilbert6566 7 жыл бұрын

I have a 28 gallon bow front aquarium with pulsing Xenia and some mushroom corals. The Xenia's have spread to all over the tank. I also have a couple of clown fish in the tank. My Hydor power head froze up over the weekend. Which power head would you recommend for my tank and how many would I need? Thanks

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

The Tunze Nanostream 6020 is an excellent pump! mdshop.us/2s9MIXZ

@leeandmandybattersby5958 7 жыл бұрын

Hi i have a 6gallon nano with soft and lps could please give me a idea of what wavemaker would be best thanks

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

The Hydor Koralia Nano is your best bet for a small tank. I have provided a link below for you to check them out on our website. mdshop.us/2ip4EFt

@leeandmandybattersby5958 7 жыл бұрын

Thank you that's very helpful

@randyhelms1057 6 жыл бұрын

are the flow recommendations of 10-20 for softies and 20-40 for sps based on display tank volume or overall tank volume including sump size?

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

Yes, the flow rate recommendations are based on your entire system volume. Whether or not you include the sump size or not is sort of situational. I would say include the sump if it is only 15%-30% of your display tank in terms of size. If you are running a larger sump that holds just as much water as the display, I would say leave it out of your calculation. I hope this helps and feel free to let us know if you have more questions. -Robert @ MD

@randyhelms1057 6 жыл бұрын

Ok I will have a 45 gallon with a 20-30 sump so I will pick up something rated for in the middle. Thank you for the help.

@abh3960 6 жыл бұрын

guys what pump should i use for my jbj 10 lps reef tank...rw4 is way to much

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

The Hydor Koralia Nano is a great choice for small aquariums. If you want something a bit nicer, check out the Tunze 6040 or 6020 model pumps. mdshop.us/2tYPj5T

@shazzataz 7 жыл бұрын

My reef tank is a custom made trigon it has a very curved front glass I find getting the power heads in a good place hard the triangular shape of the tank makes it difficult and there are hardly no tanks like mine anywhere for me to gain knowledge from

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

This is a pretty common problem for the corner tanks. It is usually best to employ a couple of smaller powerheads as apposed to one large one in order to spread the flow around your tank. Another good addition is the oscillating return nozzles which can spread flow in various directions. I linked the return nozzles below in order for you to check them out online. mdshop.us/2mt84cu

@wsbtto.ethann2559 3 жыл бұрын

hi i need help my tank is a 30 gallon long what Powerhead should i get. Help!!!

@BulkReefSupply 3 жыл бұрын

Hello! If you would like something controllable both the Ecotech Marine MP10 and the Innovative Marine MightyJet pumps would be great options.

@jmsfluffy27 4 жыл бұрын

This video did exactly the opposite of what the title stated. Can anyone help me choose the right wave maker for a 20 gallon tank???

@truetesus1950 4 жыл бұрын

what do you think I should use for a 20 gallon LONG tank? I have a few zoas and am planning to get a gsp. BUT i do have a pretty small clownfish and two chromis.

@BulkReefSupply 4 жыл бұрын

There are several great options on the market. Ecotech Marine MP10’s are great. Hydor and Sicce also make affordable options.

@truetesus1950 4 жыл бұрын

Marine Depot Aquarium Supplies ok thanks

@ethanbash7446 6 жыл бұрын

Will a wave maker function as well as a powerhead

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

Well it sort of depends on the exact unit your talking about. Sometime the word is interchangeable. Feel free to contact our technical support team directly for fast and friendly advice. 1-800-566-3474 customercare@marinedepot.com

@wessel_1232 6 жыл бұрын

is just a build in return pump enough flow for a 60 liter nano reef?

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

Sorry for the confusion but I am not exactly sure what you are asking. Feel free to clarify on here or contact us directly via email or phone. We have a wonderful support team available to help out and answer your questions anytime. 1-800-566-3474 customercare@marinedepot.com

@samiam9059 6 жыл бұрын

My only criticism was the disk in the tank side(ecotech) was corroding in the second year? Only knew because of a new out of balance noise.

@kohmelvin1343 7 жыл бұрын

I have a 50 gallon innovative marine tank that uses a 476 gph return pump. What is the correct type wave marker i should use for my tank? And how do you calculate that ? Thanks

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

I would recommend one or two submersible powerheads. The EcoTech Marine MP10 pumps would be a great choice here and I provided a link below. mdshop.us/2mf1QOn Take care and happy reefkeeping! -Robert @ MD

@JavierFlores-uk1bj 7 жыл бұрын

Marine Depot Aquarium Supplies , I have a tank boyu LH1000 80 gal, what is the best wave maker for this tank? mp10 or mp40 and quantity 1 or 2 ?

@camron4255 6 жыл бұрын

Which powerhead do you recommend for a red sea reefer 525 xl? Im new to the saltwater hobby

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

I have one of these tanks in the office and I am using x2 of the Tunze 6105 pumps with great results. mdshop.us/2ymRTYH

@camron4255 6 жыл бұрын

is it possible to use just one of the tunze 6105 pump? how do you feel about the maxspect gyre also?

@markyg200 7 жыл бұрын

What's the best pump for a bio cube 29 Salt reef tank

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

For internal flow, I would take a look at the Tunze NanoStream 6020. mdshop.us/2s9MIXZ

@JavierFlores-uk1bj 7 жыл бұрын

I have a 80 gal boyu LH1000 tank, what is the correct wave maker I should use mp10 or mp40? and how many need 1 or 2 ?

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

I would recommend x2 of the MP10 pumps or a single MP40. By using two pumps you can spread flow into the areas you need it more easily.

@JavierFlores-uk1bj 7 жыл бұрын

Marine Depot Aquarium Supplies, Regards, I will buy 2 mp10.

@GJcom-uz9hs 2 жыл бұрын

My tank 6 ft.... Wich kind power head is zuitable

@ukdrillmemes2477 6 жыл бұрын

I have a 120L aqua mini reef, is there any max power head I should use, or what is the average you would use.

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

This depends on the flow rate of each powerhead. In most tanks up to 200 US gallons the necessary flow can be easily achieved with two powerheads.

@ukdrillmemes2477 6 жыл бұрын

Marine Depot Aquarium Supplies okay thank you I will get another one if I start getting dead spots in my tank

@roguestomper8027 6 жыл бұрын

I've been looking everywhere for a pump that like the scotch pump but not as expensive, any ideas?

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

Give our support team a call or email us, we have a ton of options for powerheads and I am sure we can help you find something. 1-800-566-3474 customercare@marinedepot.com

@roguestomper8027 6 жыл бұрын

Marine Depot Aquarium Supplies cool thx

@fishstix1988 4 жыл бұрын

I plan on having a 132 gallon tank that will be fish only. Do you have a recommendation on powerhead for that?

@BulkReefSupply 4 жыл бұрын

For fish only, you obviously don't need the flow to be as strong, but do want to have movement to avoid detritus build up. I would recommend the EcoTech Marine MP40. Here is a link:www.marinedepot.com/vortech-mp40qd-propeller-pump-w-wireless-quietdrive-driver-mobius-ready-ecotech-marine. Thanks for watching. Have a great day!

@tednpam3979 5 жыл бұрын

I have a 420 gallon freshwater aquarium that is 7' long by 4' tall and 2' wide. I have adequate surface flow but nothing at the lower level. The acrylic is 1" thick. What pump would you recommend?

@BulkReefSupply 5 жыл бұрын

With such thick walls, you probably want something with a nice strong magnet mount or even a bracket. I would look at the larger Tunze Stream 3 pumps. They have strong magnets and substantial flow rates for a tank of your size. mdshop.us/2AQkF1Z You might also consider an EcoTech Marine MP60 mdshop.us/2AT9gyv

@tednpam3979 5 жыл бұрын

Marine Depot Aquarium Supplies - Thank you!

@BulkReefSupply 5 жыл бұрын

Glad to help!

@laughcorner 7 жыл бұрын

Hi, i have a 40g reef tank whats the powerhead is right? i have one 739gph is enough?

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

The answer would really depend on what kind of coral you are trying to keep. If you mostly have softies and some LPS that is sounds like you should have enough flow, but if you have an SPS dominant tank you would need to up it to somewhere between 800gph and 1600gph.

@ZaidStill 6 жыл бұрын

Would you recommend me get a power head for just my salt water fish ? I do not have any live rock or corral. But if my fish will like it, I want to get it. It’s a 65 gallon tank. Thank you

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

Yes, the ocean is naturally very turbulent and a powerhead is a great way to not only recreate a natural environment for the fish but also helps with proper gas exchange and keep waste/detritus suspended so your filtration can remove it. You can check out powerheads on our website below! mdshop.us/2BrkKbP -Robert @ MD

@ZaidStill 6 жыл бұрын

Marine Depot Aquarium Supplies, thank you for the info.

@youngblacksmoke1334 6 жыл бұрын

I have a fluval evo 5 gallon, what powerhead is Best for it?

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

Hydro Koralia Nano is great! mdshop.us/2fvkqiO

@youngblacksmoke1334 6 жыл бұрын

Oh ok.. what aBout a rw4 or wp10? Or just stick with hydor koralia 240?

@djyuxexes 7 жыл бұрын

Hi İ have a 150*50*60h fresh water aquarium How to Choose the Right Powerhead how lt/h per hour please help

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

With freshwater aquariums; internal flow should be far less when compared to most marine aquariums. I would recommend about 2-3 times total tank volume per hour and adjust accordingly. Much of this depends on the type of fish you keep in the tank and whether or not they prefer a placid or more turbulent environment. Keep in mind this internal flow rate is completely separate from the rate of flow through your filtration. Feel free to contact us directly if you have more questions. customercare@marinedepot.com 1-800-566-3474

@knightsolaire5362 4 жыл бұрын

Anyone have and suggestions for a single powerhead for a biocube 32? I’ve been building it for over a month and a half now and it seems to be going well. However I’ve learned that some of my corals really need more water flow. Thus why I am here

@lukefoster1000 4 жыл бұрын

Jebao sw4 is a really good one perfect for nano tanks

@BulkReefSupply 4 жыл бұрын

Check out Sicce or Hydor. :)

@mattpaul6805 5 жыл бұрын

How does the Reef Octo Pulse 2 Wave Pump (1600 GPH) compared to a Vortec MP40QWD or a TUNZE 6055's?

@BulkReefSupply 5 жыл бұрын

All of them are excellent pumps and have certain benefits. The Reef Octopulse is affordable and gives you a ton of flow with a directional mount. The Tunze is very similar to the Octopulse in terms of functionality but will give you even more directional flow control inside the tank. EcoTech Marine has long been one of the best powerheads you can buy but will require external mounting of the motor and no directional flow; it only pushes water in one direction, forward. First, consider where you want to mount the pumps for the best aesthetics, then look to see which combination of pumps will give you the flow rates you need and move water in the areas you need it moved. Do you have room to mount the VorTech motors outside your tank? Do you want to look at a large Tunze or Octopulse pump and chord inside your tank? All of which are excellent questions that will help you decide, either way I think you will be happy with the quality of the products here. Tunze, Reef Octopus and EcoTech Marine are some of the best manufacturers on the market.

@mattpaul6805 5 жыл бұрын

@@BulkReefSupply Many thanks for your speedy reply! I am going to be running 1 Ecotech L1 for my two 1'' returns and use my Vectra M1 for my manifold that runs my Dual reactor & my AquaTech UV Sterilizer! For my drains, I have the Synergy 20'' External Overflow box which runs 3 1.5inch drains so I WILL be running a bean Aminal type system. I want to mount my TUNZE 6055 NanoStreams on the back of my 150 and then have a pair of either Reef Octo Pulse 2's, Ecotech Vectra MP40QWD's or just add a pair of TUNZE6105's blowing directly straight across my tank! As far as my sump, I will be most likely ordering it from Synergy a CL-44. I'm getting real close to finally get this new build started :)

@diamonteoliver344 8 жыл бұрын

Im starting my first 20 Gallon High Saltwater tank, so what powerhead would be good for me...I am having a Fish Only With Live Rock and some artificial coral in the tank.

@BulkReefSupply 8 жыл бұрын

Check out the Hydor Koralia Nano pumps. They are affordable and reliable; you would want the 425 GPH model if you choose to use one pump. Being a 20 Gallon Tall, you might be better off with two of the smaller 240 GPH models to help spread the flow around your rocks. mdshop.us/2adnn4g

@joenose290 8 жыл бұрын

+Marine Depot Aquarium Supplies How would you place/position that powerhead?

@DKfir-re5ec 6 жыл бұрын

Hi friend. I need your help. I have a tank size: 150cm length ,55cm width, 65cm height. I want to buy 2 units of wave makers for the 2 sides of the aquarium. Which flow power should I have to choose per unit ( I mean , Liter per Hour)? I will grow all the types of corals, SPS, LPS and soft corals. Thanks in advance.

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

Your tank is around 140 US gallons. For a mixed reef aquarium you want to accomplish around 10-20 times turnover per hour so a total of 1400 - 2800 GPH is about right. With two powerheads I would shoot for a maximum flow on each somewhere between 1000-1400 GPH. This equates to about 3500 - 5500 Liters per hour for each pump. -Robert @ MD

@DKfir-re5ec 6 жыл бұрын

Marine Depot Aquarium Supplies Thank you for your reply. If I have 2 options: 1. Newa 5100 L/H × 2pcs 2. Newa 7500 L/ H × 2pcs Which one should I have to choose??

@OmarTheDeadAziz 6 жыл бұрын

2 smaller water flows in SLI

@zacharystevens8527 6 жыл бұрын

Do I need a wave maker if I only have clownfish? Is it just for corals?

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

You do want to ensure you have some natural like water movement inside the aquarium to keep the tank happy and healthy.

@markfernandez1852 7 жыл бұрын

Hello I have a 45 gallon tank 36in x 24in x 12in Where should I place my 2 power heads One is 700 gph and the other is 500 gph For this tank I'm planning on having softies and LPS Cheers, Mark

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

This all depends on the rock work and coral placement. The ultimate goal is to acheive water movement throughout the entire tank without any dead spots. Start with one powerhead on each end of the tank and evaluate; if you see detritus build up or algae growing it may be a good idea to switch things up.

@christopherrice5343 7 жыл бұрын

what size powerhead would you recommend for a tank of 65 gal 36Lx25Tx18W

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

Total internal flow should be 650-1300 GPH. You can use a single pump or split this up between two controllable pumps for the best control over the water movement in your tank. The EcoTech Marine MP10 is my favorite for tanks of this size. mdshop.us/2gLvdIO

@nicknathu5981 6 жыл бұрын

Help! I can find a correct powerhead for my tank, 29g biocube 1 clownfish 1 scooter blenny Coral Large frog spawn Large colony of red hornet Small colony of rastas Small hammer Medium tubbs blue Thanks for the help

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

The Hydor Koralia Nano is a great choice! mdshop.us/2vPJg3k

@jcbueno369 7 жыл бұрын

2000gph /50gal is al little shot of flow for a sps , in my opinion

@callmenemo491 8 жыл бұрын

you forgot to mention that if i have 2 pumps (1000 gph each) and they oscillate (i.e., Left on + Right off, then, Left off + Right on), then my turn-over is really 1000 gph not 2000 gph.

@daver977 7 жыл бұрын

Should powerheads stay on 24hours?

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

Yes, in most cases you want your powerhead to run 24/7. If you are using a controllable powerhead on a reef tank, it is pretty common to lower the speed during the evening hours only in order to more closely mimic the ocean environment.

@BAbivaJr 7 жыл бұрын

Dave R yes. This creates a water flow current almost as it is in the ocean. I'm pretty sure the ocean doesn't turn off huh?

@takusaako5086 5 жыл бұрын

i only use power head and it works perfectly

@ad78 7 жыл бұрын

Jebao PP-20 FTW lol

@anasansari8389 6 жыл бұрын

what size of powerhead in 85 gallon saltwater aquarium

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

Contact our support team for fast and friendly service; they will be happy to help you choose the perfect powerhead. Customercare@marinedepot.com 1-800-566-3474