Powerheads and flow in a Nano.

[Fsh]

So I’m trying to work out how many powerheads and placement.

I have a 20 gallon RedSea Max Nano.

I want to keep SPS at the top, and a few LPS and softies at the bottom.

I have one small cheap powerhead that I’m going to have at the back behind the rock to keep there from being dead spots, and have it points up to keep detritus suspended in the water column. I also have one Vortech MP10 QD. I plan to have this on the right hand side two thirds of the way up. And have a module to ramp it up and down on my Neptune APEX.

I’m considering a second MP10. Now first is this overkill in such a small tank? Will one MP10 create enough flow and circulation by lifting the opposite side wall? And will this still be the case when SPS has grown? I also have a sand bed and don’t want to cause a sand storm.

If I should go for two, how should I do it? My ideal is to have them on the right hand side as that side faces the wall. Do I:
• have one high and one low at the front on the right hand side to create different types of flow.
• have one each side facing each other Ramping up and down alternatively
• have them on alternate sides, with one high and one low to create a lot of circulation.
• one on the back wall and one on the right so they meet at different places. My issue with this is when the coral grows out I think the flow may be blocked, and my very small back sump is pretty full.

Thanks all. Any help, advice and comments greatly approximated.

 

[andrewey]

I grew wads of SPS back in the day with nothing more than a koralia and return pump in a nanocube dx (24 gallons). One mp10 should be more than enough. If not, you can pick one up later once your SPS grow in, if you see there isn't enough flow.

 

[Tahoe61]

I grew wads of SPS back in the day with nothing more than a koralia and return pump in a nanocube dx (24 gallons). One mp10 should be more than enough. If not, you can pick one up later once your SPS grow in, if you see there isn't enough flow.

Yup 1 mp10 should be enough.

My old 20 with an mp10.

 

[Fsh]

Great thanks both,

I think you’re right I can probably add at a later date.

What do you think about placement?