Noob question:

[xtreme]

It depends on the type of corals you plan on keeping but I would aim for at least 20x/hour for the volume of your tank and go up from there if necessary. Some SPS tanks flow is up around 80-100x per hour.

[krg]

This tank is going to be a FOWLR, as I don't have room for a sump or a skimmer. I'm considering turning a 60ga into a tank with corals and 'community' fish. Planning on going to Calgary this week, and I want to check out a shop or two. Any recommendations? I heard Golds is a really good shop, so I plan on going there. If the prices are good there, maybe I'll buy my powerhead there!!
Anyway, I'm getting sidetracked. Thanks for replying guys, much appreciated!!
Kennan

[globaldesigns]

I run:
- 2 Vortech MP40W's
- 2 #4 Koralia's with wavemaker controller
- Mag 18 return pump

All them together are equal to 11,000 Gallons per hour of momement, give or take. Of course there is a little loss from head room of the return pump... As others stated it depends on what coral you have, but I will put something out there... Remember the wild is not a gentle place, nor is it really calm, if you go scuba or snorkling do you see dietrus and crap on the rocks? I don't, so I believe the more movement of water the better.

Have fun!

[krg]

I would think though that with more movement in the water, wouldn't all the poop and other stuff just be suspended in the water then?

[intarsiabox]

It must remain in suspension for your filter to pull it out. If the debris is allowed to settle it will decompose and turn into nitrates. As soon as the excess debris gets sucked out after you intitially start your power heads the water will probably end up being clearer and your livestock will be happier.

[krg]

DUH!! That was a dumb question of me to ask!! I never even thought of the filter. Boy do I feel dumb! Thanks for your reply
Kennan

[nlreefguy]

Originally Posted by krg

DUH!! That was a dumb question of me to ask!! I never even thought of the filter. Boy do I feel dumb! Thanks for your reply
Kennan

There's no such thing as a dumb question, man. That's what forums are for! I hope we can all be as useful to you. Don't be afraid to ask questions - it will prevent you from making all the mistakes that we all have made as typical noobs!

[ElGuappo]

Originally Posted by krg

DUH!! That was a dumb question of me to ask!! I never even thought of the filter. Boy do I feel dumb! Thanks for your reply
Kennan

the only dumb question is the one you dont ask.... ... most ppl on this board are more than wiling to help..

i ran a reef tank without a sump and skimmer.... just fyi it can be done but the maintanece is insane...

[whatcaneyedo]

Two other advantages to using powerheads in place of circulation pumps is that they are more efficent in terms of electricty drawn and add less heat to the water. Something like a submersible Danner Mag 7 pump will feel noticably warm to the touch and draws 65W. While a Hydor Koralia Evolution 750 will produce roughly the same amount of flow for only 4.5W

[krg]

Hi guys,
Your replies have led me to ask another question..water changes..what exactly am I doing? I have some experience with freshwater tanks, and am used to vaccuuming the gravel when I do a water change. I was told with saltwater I don't want to siphon my substrate cause I have befeficial stuff there. So..am I just basically sucking up water and replacing it? Or am I just vaccuuming the parts of my Live Rock that I can vaccuum? I'm slightly confused on what to do to perform a 'proper' water change.
Thanks to anyone still reading and to anyone replying..I EXTREMELY appreciate it!!! Thanks to everyone who has replied. I look forward to learning some more!!! Take care,
Kennan