Need help with wave maker and pumps

[cobra2806]

I plan on using a wave maker in my 55g long tank. I want to run a maxi jet 1200 at the bottom on one side of the tank to blow waste out and to the filter. I also want to run two pumbs at the top. I think if I add two more 1200's the current would be to strong, but if they are on a wave maker then all three wouldn't be on at the same time. What is everyone's suggestions?

 

[chainsaw5vent]

if you have the room behind/in/under your tank would it be possible to run one pump for current and one pump attached to a central line that has several sprinkler valves connected to a timer to create wave motion? this is most likely how i will set up my next tank that my wife authorized yesterday (once we move)

 

[melbournefl]

Good afternoon Chainsaw,
1st congrats on getting permission for a new tank I like the sound of your idea of using a sprinkler timer/valve to simulate waves and may have to incorporate it into the tank I'm building now. My only concern is, I wonder how much water pressure is needed to "cycle" the sprinkler valve? I'm not planning on putting in an irrigation pump LOL I'd really love to find a very low pressure sprinkler valve, if you know of one, please post the info.
Later, Paul

 

[chainsaw5vent]

hey mel. hadn't even thought about psi needed to cycle the valves. i just figured that i would have them operate in timed cycles of varying time frames. sometimes they would operate as a single unit and other times multiple (electrical) valves would be open. are you thinking about sprinkler heads?
this way i would be able to use lesser amount of pumps w/no powerheads to add heat to the tank and a lower electrical cost. and a single line to operate the returns for less clutter.
of course with a pg wife, the aquarium electrical cost is very low. our house currently stays at 71-74 degrees (74 is when i sneak on over and turn it up a little bit ) 24/7.
p.s. don't argue w/ a pregnant lady. even when you're right, you always lose.

 

[melbournefl]

Well no PG wife here but spoiled kids abound so the temp manages to stay darn low anyway, regarding the sprinkler valve issue. The way I understand it, when the sprinkler pumps turns on, the pressure somehow cycles the valve to the next zone, of course that change could occur when the pressure stops but either way, I still wonder how much pressure is needed. I fully intend to check out spec sheets as soon as time allows. I love the idea, not only a potential equipment cost savings but my sprinkler valve has been working thru 20+ years and 3 pumps so I think it's a bit more reliable than most of the wavemaking devices out there. Keep me up to date on your research and I shall do likewise.
Later, Paul