Using the MP40 without a guard

[drblank1]

Does anyone use the echotech's powerheads without a guard? I have 2 MP40s for my tank and they seem so 'open' that a snail or fish could easily get sucked into the head. I use a nem guard but it sure would be less intrusive if I felt comfortable that it is safe without a guard. I few years ago, I lost a blenny because he got sucked into one of my WAVs and they are not as near as open as the MP40. Anyone use MPs without a guard?

 

[exnisstech]

I have 8, 6 mp40s and two MP10s and have never run guards. If you have fish that like to perch on them it can a problem and guards are a good idea especially if you shut pumps off for maintenance or feeding. I had trouble when I added some dwarf cirith snails but I just stopped using them because they are so small. I've had astrea snails on them but never inside.
If you do use guards I would get something 3d printed. The sponge guards they ship with are nothing but a trap for detritus and plug way too fast when I tried them once.

 

[backbayreef]

I have 4 MP60s and 5 MP40s across 3 tanks — no nemguards now. It’s a pita to clean them and restricting flow. I just get bigger fish so they won’t get sucked in - lol

Anemones? I put them in baskets now…

 

[Waters]

I normally don't use them but it depends on the fish. I have had lionfish fins get sucked in so I use the guards with those or any very small fish.

 

[jabberkaycee]

Did you get the flow guards and if so, what do you think about them? Are they a PITA to clean?