In - Tank Circulation Rates?

[Delphinus]

I know you what you mean about the visible gear. Unfortunately it's a good and economical way to get customized flow. So it's a trade-off I guess...

Of course, it all depends on what you like, but I've found you can't have enough flow. Kind of like lighting. I always want to "pump up the volume" just that little bit more. Of course, you don't want water velocity to the point that your sand never settles. Fortunately, water velocity and water flow aren't exactly the same thing.

The problem with increasing flow via your sump return is that more water ends up going through your sump and overflow. This can get noisy and lead to microbubbles, and etc. You want some good flow from your sump return (IMO) but not so much to overwhelm your system.

I'd start off with two powerheads (i.e., Maxijet 1200) at either side of the tank, laterally opposed (ie., pointed towards each other). The turbulence you get where the waters meet will good and randomized. Then see how you like that after a few weeks. If you want more, then jump off that bridge at that time. Maybe some bigger powerheads or some other (strategically hidden) powerheads, or, maybe, nothing more at all because you like it just fine that way.

(My bet is on that between your sump return and two powerheads, you might be happy with that.)

cheers