How many pumps do I need?

[franktobia]

Hey guys.


I'm about to start my first saltwater tank (i have done plenty of freshwater but i want to expand). It's a 30 gallon tank that would probably have 4-5 fish in it. I was planning on doing a cartridge filter and a protein skimmer. I heard since i'm not doing a sump, i should have more then one pumps. I'm looking at hydor pumps right now and i'm not sure if i need one or two and how many gph do i need per pump. Would two 600 gph pumps be too crazy?

 

[Sniperhank]

Two pumps will help you create a more 'chaotic' and randomized flow pattern in the system. It will help with minimizing low flow areas.
In terms of 600 gph, that is just fine. A minimum of flow is around 10x turnover of the system and can go as high at 50x in high flow sps tanks.

 

[franktobia]

Two pumps will help you create a more 'chaotic' and randomized flow pattern in the system. It will help with minimizing low flow areas.
In terms of 600 gph, that is just fine. A minimum of flow is around 10x turnover of the system and can go as high at 50x in high flow sps tanks.

Ok thank you. Also how should I position the two pumps. One on the left wall and one on the right? Should they be the same height or one lower and one higher?

 

[54seaweed]

I always try to offset some so every part gets a little circulation