quick powerhead question

[sir_dudeguy]

i have 2 aquaclear 30 powerheads. they're not very strong, but on the bottom where the water gets sucked in there seems to be quite a bit of...well...suction. Does that intake thing need something to cover it or not? Just wondering cuz i dont want my fish getting sucked in.
Also, does anyone know if they are completely submersible. And when it says completely submersible, does that mean the cord can go under water too?
thanks

 

[dskidmore]

http://www.hagen.com/pdf/aquatic/AquaclearPH_10-20-30.pdf

Yes, they are completely submersable.

An inlet screen or sponge might be advisable. Usually fish are smart enough to not swim into the pump, but occasionally a sick fish or a stupid invertabrate will get sucked in. The sponge will double as a filter, but has to be cleaned frequently. A screen will be lower maintenance.