closed loop vs powerheads

[capt85]

I juat purchased maybe my dream tank and could use some advice from the large tank masters. It is a 220 tall (72"wide x 24" deep x 32"tall). I am going to be keeping a mixed reef so flow is important but I won't need anything crazy since my lobos, brains, etc wont like too much.

I have been weighing the options of powerheads and CLs and so far I am leaning towards a CL powered by a 5600(roughly) pump with an OM 4way. 2" return and 4" outlets.

Any input on what has worked for you?

 

[cdness]

I have a 125G with a closed loop. The loop is a 6 outlet running on a Reeflo Dart pump. An OM 4-way controls 4 of the 6 outputs and 2 are always on. I like the flow and will avoid powerheads as much as possible as I like to look of a closed loop better than having the pumps in the tank. You would be just ine with the 5600 GPH pump on a 220. If you need additional flow, install some of the flow accelerators on Loc-Line and you are set.

 

[capt85]

I like the idea of having 2 separate from the om. Do you have this plumbed with PVC or soft tubing?

 

[capt85]

Nevermind i just read your build thread and it looks like both. How do you like it being plumbed with like that?

 

[cdness]

I like it, but if I had the room I would have done all rigid PVC. If you do vinyl, use very hot water to heat the pipe a bit so it will bend nicer. The reinforced stuff doesn't bend well.

Also do two inlets that combine into one right before the pump. It is easier to find grates to fit 1.5" bulkheads than 2" bulkheads. I had to make mine custom.