EcoTech VorTech Dilemma

[Rory's Reef]

So I'm starting an RSR 250 reef tank and I'm trying to select some good powerhead's. Initially I decided to run 2 VorTech MP10w's, but they're only rated for 9.5mm glass and the Reefer is 12mm.

I've seen others running the Reefer with the MP10's, so has anyone had issues with them not holding?

Second, If I did go with MP40's instead, would it be ok to go with just one? Or should I still get two and just run them at lower speeds?

This will be an SPS dominant tank

 

[Diesel]

Your MP10's will not be enough flow for a SPS dominant tank, even if they will hold.
Two MP40's QD is your best solution if you stick with the Vortechs.

 

[Rory's Reef]

Your MP10's will not be enough flow for a SPS dominant tank, even if they will hold.
Two MP40's QD is your best solution if you stick with the Vortechs.

Even with the return pump at 660GPH?

If that's the case then I'll definitely go with the 40's

Thanks

 

[Diesel]

You RP can't be considered flow for SPS.
It's to return clean and nutrient rich water back from the sump full of bacteria and pods that reside in the sump.
A constant flow on SPS and your corals won't be happy or will STN later on.
The reason why we have these complicated schedules on the pumps like vortechs.

 

[Rory's Reef]

You RP can't be considered flow for SPS.
It's to return clean and nutrient rich water back from the sump full of bacteria and pods that reside in the sump.
A constant flow on SPS and your corals won't be happy or will STN later on.
The reason why we have these complicated schedules on the pumps like vortechs.

Wow, I didn't even know that. Learning new things every day

Thanks for the help. Makes this decision much easier.

 

[Diesel]

Your welcome my friend.

 

[mcarroll]

@Rory's Reef Is that tank about 36x18x18"D on the inside?

I tried in my 50 gallon tank (same size; bare bottom) what you're about to try with the upgrade.

I ended up having to replace that pair of pumps with a set of three Tunze Turbelle® nanostream® 6045's ($78 each) and I had so much better more flow and flexibility – even just running them off of simnple timers as a tide simulation. (These Tunze's last forever by comparison too...)

If you're feeling dedicated to controllable pumps I'd look at these three first:

• Turbelle® nanostream® 6040 ($140) - tranverse pump for hiding in tight places
• Turbelle® nanostream® 6055 ($185) - controllable, more powerful version of the 6045
• Turbelle® nanostream® 6095 ($230) - more powerful than the 6055, but very wide, short flow. (Not unlike the pumps you're using in flow, but in an awesomely adjustable package.) I think these are probably better for a 24" tank, but depends on your plans. (I have a pair of these in addition to my 6055's....across two stony coral tanks.)

2¢