I dont have powerheads...return pump is dc though so that's what I will be running, will just have to run it on lowest setting to conserve batteries. Backups are small computer backups I snagged from the warehouse at work today. Have a power converter in work truck but don't want to use it if I don't have to...save gas is more important.that sucks ,i have been watching,you just need one ph pointed at surface ,if your there are your back up 12v rechargable