powerheads

[matt_trace]

hi all recently got a new 40g tank it will be fish and corals such as zoas finger leather im just wondering how much gph my powerheads should be pushing in a tank this size thanks in advance
tracey

 

[Drewbie]

I would love to know as well if there is some formula

is it something like 4 x TV = DGPH ?

TV = total volume
DGPH = desired gallons per hour

 

[Speakerman]

Does the tank have an overflow/sump?
Is it 40g long or tall?

 

[CaptainAhab]

10-20 times .. so 400-800 gph + (includes your sump return if applicable). As always it's a guideline.

 

[matt_trace]

hi its 40g long no sump/overflow i have the power head pushing 800gph at the min is this enough or should i supply more?

 

[CaptainAhab]

800 is fine... another one to create more turbulent flow (pointed at each other) would be better.. But at 20 X, that's fine. I assume you also have a HOB or canister that is adding flow too... That flow counts also.

 

[matt_trace]

ok thanks i have an ehiem filter system external which creates a little flow maybe i might invest in another ph thanks to all for the help
tracey

 

[CichliditisExtremitis]

With marine tanks, you can rarely go wrong by adding more water flow. If you've ever gone snorkeling in a fringing reef, you'll know what I mean. There is a constant movement of water. While I currently do not maintain any marine tanks, in the days when I did, in a four-foot marine tank, I would typically place a Penguin 1140 powerhead in the back left and right corners, as well as use two Penguin 330 Bio-Wheel filters, one on the back left, and one on the back right. This would provide sufficient water movement for anemones, corals, etc.