Need help with echotech powerhead placement

aaronn · Sep 19, 2016

So I have a 170 gallon rimless Peninsula tank that I am in the process of building. The tank is 3 sided starfire with the overflow on the end. I am trying to decide on the correct placement for the echotech powerheads. I want to place one on each side of the overflow and none on the opposite side since it will be a viewable panel. The tank dimensions are 72 x 30 x 19. I am planning on the tank being predominantly sps. If the placement is OK should I do 2 mp40 or upgrade to mp60. Any input is greatly appreciated. Here is a picture of the tank. Ignore where it is currently sitting, it will be set up as a Peninsula.

Salty1962 · Sep 19, 2016

I would go with MP-60s on each end if it were me. I don't know if 40s would give you enough random flow. JMO

Brew12 · Sep 19, 2016

aaronn said:
If the placement is OK should I do 2 mp40 or upgrade to mp60.

I would be concerned that the reach wouldn't be nearly long enough even with the MP60's. I had MP40's on each end of my 72" tank and needed to have them almost maxed to get good flow in the center of the tank. They provide great flow close to the pump but don't seem to have the "reach" of other powerheads. Since you are looking for 72" of reach I think I would look for a different option entirely.

reefeqmover · Sep 19, 2016

At least 3-4 mp40, or 2 mp60 and 1 mp40 on back panel

aaronn · Sep 19, 2016

I'm thinking 2 mp60s on back panel. I just really don't want them on the other viewable panel.

Brew12 · Sep 19, 2016

aaronn said:
I'm thinking 2 mp60s on back panel. I just really don't want them on the other viewable panel.

From Vortech's website "The Standard for Flow The MP60w features a low-profile, broad-flow powerhead and driver designed for aquariums ranging from 120 gallons to 1,000+ gallons (450 to 3,800+ liters)."

IMO you really don't want a broad-flow powerhead if you are trying to establish good flow across a 72" tank. Before you pull the trigger on this I would recommend you contact Ecotech and see what they feel the effective penetration of each pump is. Your issue won't be total flow, it will be how good your flow is on the far side of the tank from the pumps. Maybe we can get their attention so they can help with this. #TeamEcoTech or @RandoReefer

aaronn · Sep 19, 2016

My other option could be 4 mp40's on back wall. I already have two, so that would definitely be the most cost effective for me.

Brew12 · Sep 19, 2016

aaronn said:
My other option could be 4 mp40's on back wall. I already have two, so that would definitely be the most cost effective for me.

If 2 MP40's wont work I don't think an extra 2 will get you much. Really hoping an Ecotech rep responds soon. What might be a good option is the 2 MP40's for good broad flow at the back of the tank and then 2 high velocity pumps to get better flow at the front of the tank. So many pump are designed to be facing each other across the length of the tank. Your situation is fairly unique. The Gyre pumps would have been a good option since they basically create a flow loop but your overflow would be in the way so that won't work.