powerhead question

[fat_ed]

I have a 55 g High tank FOWLR with about 55 lb. live rock that is currently cycling. Right now I have a single Rio 600 about 1/3 of the way down the tank pointed slightly upwards for surface agitation. It seems to generate a nice horsehoe shaped current around the tank. Would it be advisable to add a second powerhead to the opposite side of the tank, or would this create too much turbulence for smaller fish? If it would be advisable, can you recommend a brand with a longer cord than the Rio, as it will not reach from the opposite side of the tank to the powerstrip w/o a short extension cord, (which I would like to avoid). Thanks.

 

[tacks]

You should definately add one more if not two more. Don't worry about too much current for the little fish. What you need to worry about is them being sucked up by the powerhead. Don't make the same costly mistake I did. The rio is designed in a way that it seems impossible to suck a fish up. I have three AquaClears in my tank. I had to add on a filter on the bottom of the big one to avoid another fatality.
Current is GOOD. The fish seem to enjoy it and it also keeps un-eaten food suspended. Good luck and welcome.
[ May 27, 2001: Message edited by: Tacks ]

 

[grumpy vet]

I agree...
I have added more and more powerheads to my 75G reef. I have a big Rio that I turn on from time to time to "stir things up". My tank has done better and better as I have added circulation. Yes - you see a fish swim by one and get blown around - but they seem to love it.
GV

 

[fat_ed]

Thanks, gang. That was what I suspected. Any thoughts on reliable brands of powerheads known to have longer cords?

 

[tacks]

AquaClears by Hagen seem to be pretty good. You can lengthen (word??) a power cord fairly easy if that is what is holding you up. You can also buy a power strip with a long cord. I'm guessing you'll eventualy need more outlets like everyone else.

 

[jimi]

Maxi-jets or aquaclears.

 

[lcc]

Rio also makes a rotating device that you can add to the powerhead it is like a wave maker at least that is what Rio claims. I have a fish only tank and I have 2 powerheads one is an old 802 aqua clear and the other is a rio 800 or 1100 . I have one pointed at 45 dregrees and the other pointed across 5the bttom of my tank to keep the CC cleaner.