Maxi-Jet Powerhead 400?

[gemini9]

I ordered a Maxi-Jet Powerhead 400 for my 30 gallon tank to get some more water circulation going. All the circulation I have now is from my marineland 350 filter and I needed more flow, so I ordered this maxi jet from brs along with some more dry rock. This maxi jet is rated for 500 gph and I have a few questions hopefully you all can help me with. You've be such a great help so far. So first off I'm wondering if 500 gph is too much? Sounds a bit much for a small 30g tank.... or maybe it's not enough? lol I have no idea but I impulsively ordered one. The second thing I need to know is how to set it up. Do I attach it towards the top or bottom of the tank? Do I direct the flow of water upward? Downward or straight across? Also, it has different modes and attachments as a circulation pump, powerhead, and a utility pump. I'm guessing the utility pump is for other attachments like skimmers and things? But what is the difference between the Circulation pump and Powerhead mode? It looks like Circulation and powerhead modes both just circulate the water... Not sure I understand the difference between the two settings. Can anybody explain them to me? :bigsmile:

 

[Reefing Madness]

500gph is a good number for your tank, a reef tank water flow numbers would start up around 600gph or so, so you'll be fine using that one.
I'd set it up on the side of the tank, middlish of the tank, pointing slightly up, you want a lil ripple at the surface.
You want to use it in circulation mode, as this is the strongest of its flows, in the powerhead mode it only moves 110gph.

 

[gemini9]

Thanks for the info. Whats the pros and cons of powerhead vs circulation mode? Seems to do the same thing to me just different gph

 

[Reefing Madness]

Yea, they do the same thing, one is just alot more GPH than the other. They kinda set up a bit different also, in terms of what it looks like in the different modes.

 

[gemini9]

Thanks! Wow I seriously need to take a break from this computer today. I have no life haha. Is it any wonder why my fish tank is right next to my computer? haha