New tank start up..power head recommendations

[joe-ejs]

Hello.

I just started up a 90gl reef with sump,etc. I need to add a power head but am not ready to invest in one of the more advanced models,.just looking to get movement beyond the return pump until I get a base of corals. My tank just finished cycling and have a pair of clowns. I was wondering what might me a good entry level PH ...later to be moved to the Brute formixing.etc..

any advice is appreciated

 

[ShepherdReefer]

I use one MP40, one MP10, and RedSea reefwave45. To be honest, I like them all, they have their purpose.

 

[X-37B]

These work well and are priced right.
They will provide plenty of flow for your 90 and are a good start.
You really need 2 as you can set them to run slow to start and they have many programable settings.
You could also go with the ow 25's as they are smaller. I used 2 in my 120 for a year with no issues.

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[joseserrano]

Look into Tunze ac

 

[gabrieltackitt]

Check out the Aqamai KPs/KPm stuff. They’re made by Hydor and my KPs has been great! Super controllable for how tiny they are.

 

[Big Bosha]

For a start, you could always use the newer AI Neros. They are a LITTLE more pricey than some of the easier powerhead like hydro korellias, or similar. But they are an intuitive powerhead on the affordable side that can be used for the end goal.

 

[slojim]

some of the powerheads have better reputations for longevity, but in the basic AC motor, plug-it-in and it spins category, I'd suggest you check the shelf of your LFS without sweating it too much. Most likely, you'll want something that moves a lot of water, in the 1,000gph range. Every basic powerhead I've purchased has lasted a long time.

I suppose one option for you is a rossmont. I have one and it works well for me. I mention it because it is a basic AC powerhead if you plug it into the wall, but if you buy the controller (separate purchase), then you can program it or control the speed. I have mine on a varying program throughout the day. Starts out a minimum power, ramps up after the lights come on, peaks in the early evening with a wave period, then settles back down for the night.
You can do that with lots of powerheads, but not many AC powerheads, and not many that you can upgrade later. But the upgrade will add up to be similar money to the more full-featured powerheads you are trying to avoid.

 

[takitaj]

You want a basic power head that moves water, to be relegated to mixing later, then one or 2 of the Hydor Korralia in the 1000+ range would fit your wants/needs. I still use one of the gen 2 1150 gph to mix salt in a 22gal tote. It's around 10 years old now. It's not the quietest anymore but it moves water and it's only in use 24 hours at a time twice a month so I really don't care.

 

[PghReef]

If this is temporary and you plan on upgrading later when you get corals, then amazon.com for cheap Chinese ones work great. That's what I use in my qt and waterchange systems and use the mp40 and redsea in my DT

 

[Cell]

If you aren't ready to invest in high end models, then you wont be going with MP's or Nero's.

I'd recommend Jebao SLW's, I'm currently employing one each of the SLW10, SLW20, and SLW30. Or if you want something a little step up in quality, but not crazy money, look at Tunze powerheads. If I hadn't discovered the SLW's, I'd probably still be using solely Tunze pumps.

 

[Doctorgori]

I like Sicce and Tunze ...they are a lil large tho ... but last
I got a BOXFULL of Chinese pumps, looks like the land of misfit toys ...
I do buy Amazon/made in China sometimes, but keep my expectations inline with the price