What's a good small powerhead?

[deeze]

I'm trying to find a good powerhead for my new 65 gallon tall tank. I'd like one with a rotating head to create a good current in the system and most of all I'd like to find one that is small and relatively out of sight. Any ideas?

 

[tony detroit]

Powersweeps most always quit working in less than a year.
Rios have caused many tank failures.
I'd go with a maxijet, minijet, mag drive, or Aquaclear.

 

[robchuck]

Seio powerheads are relatively small, push a lot of water, and don't use much electricity. Otherwise, Maxijets are probably your best bet.

 

[donahue]

Have you considered a closed loop system?

 

[cayman isl]

I've been running AquaClear 301s for over a year without any problems other than needing a tap or two to engage the impeller after they have been off for a bit. They are visible, but not really obnoxious. I have them in each back corner of the tank. They are also covered in coraline now so are somewhat inconspicuous.
The new tank is getting a closed-loop with a Quiet One 4000 as the pump. If you have the finances you might want to consider that option.
Good Luck!

 

[deeze]

huh... a closed loop? What is that all about? I like the sound of that. In fact any info you can give me about that would be great because I'm still waiting on parts (refugium) before I can finish setting everything up. Thanks so much,

 

[cayman isl]

Do a search on closed loop in the DIY forum. Lots of useful information, diagrams, etc.
Search button at the top of the page /

 

[tony detroit]

Closed loops are alright, but keep in mind you increase your chance for a leak by 20.

 

[golfish]

Originally posted by tony detroit
Closed loops are alright, but keep in mind you increase your chance for a leak by 20.

how did you come up with that number...

 

[tony detroit]

I made it up. Usually you find closed loops on large tanks, so:
Say you have 4 bulkheads
4 unions
4 elbows
4 connectors
2 pump inlet/outlets
Ok, that's 18 chances, pretty close.

 

[golfish]

Originally posted by tony detroit
I made it up. Usually you find closed loops on large tanks, so:
Say you have 4 bulkheads
4 unions
4 elbows
4 connectors
2 pump inlet/outlets
Ok, that's 18 chances, pretty close.

I guess that's the same way people felt when they first brought plumbing into their house..Imagin all the leaks

 

[squidd]

I've had to take more than 20 "leaks" in my house...
Sure Glad I have indoor plumbing...
I feel the same way about the C/L on my tank(s)..
OMG.. That's almost 40 chances of a leak...
I gotta go to the bathroom...