Turn over rate for reef

[wormhauler]

This I am sure has been covered. What is the turnover rate in gph that we strive for in a reef tank? Is there a guidline like 5 times per hour?

Thanks
Roger

 

[darknessheir]

I have read about 10 is good with upwards of 30 being best for a reef tank.

 

[wormhauler]

Thanks I have read so much stuff lately that I begin to forget the basics.

 

[melosu58]

IMO it should be about 10-15 times but also IMO it needs to be chaotic flow. Not a straight direction flow. I have a mag 12 and a mag 9.5 return line aimed at each other to provide this chaotic flow in the tank.

 

[wormhauler]

Thanks again. I understand there can bee too much flow also. Can the sump/refugium be too big? I plan on having a small DT for now, upgrade to larger. If I put the sump in the basement, I will have a lot of room for a large sump for may later purchase of a 180 gal tank. But start with a 40 or 50 to be sure I can keep up with all I need to do for these critters.

Thanks, roger