Best Flow Powerheads for a Hexagonal Tank

[Woody7477]

I am converting my 35G hex tank to salt. Each side is 11.5 inches with a 23 inch diameter. The issue I am concerned about is the powerhead, as virtually any spot on the glass would hit the rock/coral in the middle (downside of a hex :disappointed-face:) except when placed above the formations. I know the top can be a good spot, but with the depth of a hex I need something towards the bottom as well. I was originally looking at the Nero 3, but am also looking at the Tunze 6040. Has anyone here had experience with a Hex, and if so what did you find worked best for your powerhead(s)?

Thanks in advance.

*Will eventually move to a larger tank, so please don't suggest a different tank in this post
*Filtration is a Sicce Whale 500 Canister Filter along with a AquaMaxx 1.5 H.O.B Skimmer
*NOT MY TANK, BUT LOOKS IDENTICAL. USED PIC FOR VISUAL REFERENCE OF TANK STYLE AND SIZE. NOT USING THAT FILTER.

 

[Timfish]

Your corals are the primary determining factor for water flow. But either of those pumps will work for general flow

 

[Woody7477]

So I know the pumps will work, I guess the better question is: What pumps and/or layout will work best to ensure good flow while not blasting the corals? Kinda hard to get flow behind/forward of the corals when the hex shape leaves pumps blowing onto the formation.

 

[twentyleagues]

So I know the pumps will work, I guess the better question is: What pumps and/or layout will work best to ensure good flow while not blasting the corals? Kinda hard to get flow behind/forward of the corals when the hex shape leaves pumps blowing onto the formation.

I would go with the tunze they are aim-able. I would put it in the back aimed at one of the side walls and bank the flow of the opposite wall.

 

[Woody7477]

I would go with the tunze they are aim-able. I would put it in the back aimed at one of the side walls and bank the flow of the opposite wall.

That's what I am leaning towards, just like the programmability of the Nero...

 

[twentyleagues]

That's what I am leaning towards, just like the programmability of the Nero...

I've got a Nero 5 on my tank they are .....ehhh. I think for your particular application Tunze would serve you better. There is very little aiming you can do with the Nero. I have a cube tank and flow is hard wish I would have done something else myself.

 

[Vivid Creative Aquatics Verified Sponsor]

To help mix thing up a bit and add some addition movement to the water column, you could add a single 1/2in Random Flow generator® to the the outlet SICCE canister filer. I could even help reduce the number of power heads you need in that tank.

Our 1/2in Random Flow Generator Flow kit comes with an adapter that will fit the SICCE outlet, and allow you to attach the RFG directly to it.

You may even find this kit at you local fish store.

 

[Woody7477]

To help mix thing up a bit and add some addition movement to the water column, you could add a single 1/2in Random Flow generator® to the the outlet SICCE canister filer. I could even help reduce the number of power heads you need in that tank.

Our 1/2in Random Flow Generator Flow kit comes with an adapter that will fit the SICCE outlet, and allow you to attach the RFG directly to it.

You may even find this kit at you local fish store.

Considering the max output on the canister is 390, and with the head pressure it would likely be under 300, would this still produce a random flow? On your website it says you need 290 GPH minimum to make a randomly oscillating flow pattern.

 

[Vivid Creative Aquatics Verified Sponsor]

Considering the max output on the canister is 390, and with the head pressure it would likely be under 300, would this still produce a random flow? On your website it says you need 290 GPH minimum to make a randomly oscillating flow pattern.

Yes - it would still create a nice randomized flow. The flow rating we provide or more of a "suggested" flow rating. Even at or below the minimum suggested flow, it will randomize but it just wont be very punchy - it would be more defused. In fact, for our freshwater customers , we regularly suggested they aim for the lower end of the flow ratings, so as not to blow to hard, but still get the benefits.

In your case, given the size of the tank, I think a single 1/2in RFG at 290 to 390GPH would do well, and at a minimum would be an easy way add to the overall quality of flow.