Need some input

[BlindZide]

Hey reefers! I have some questions regarding my 54g corner tank that I would like to get some input and opinions on.

Should I use a UV Sterilizer? The tank I bought came with one. Not sure of brand or anything but they did have it in use when I purchased it.

Flow from return seems to be a bit much. I know I can install a ball valve of some sort to help adjust and turn it down. Can I do the same for the overflow?

Powerhead positioning in a corner tank seems to be tricky with the curved front glass. Right now I just have a WP25 in there because the return is so high that more flow would stir up the tank pretty bad. What are some successful positions people have used. I have available to use....

2 Koralia 850s
2 Koralia 3s on a wavermaker
1 WP25

Thanks!

 

[thegrun]

Trent,
I'm not a big UV fan, as they kill indiscriminately both good and bad. They will not eradicate ich but do have some value in controlling algae provided your water flow is correct through the UV sterilizer and the bulbs are changed out regularly. To me in the end they are more trouble than they are worth. You will find it easier to control your flow with a gate valve rather than a ball valve on your return line since they are easier to make small flow changes with. Always place the valve on the discharge side of the pump, never on the suction side as that will harm the pump. You can only place a valve on the drain line if you have a second emergency drain line, otherwise any small obstruction in the drain line will cause a flood. I have never owned a corner tank so I can't help you with advice there, but there is a large thread here on Reef Central for corner tank owners, make a search for corner tanks and I'm sure you will get some great advice there.
-Mike

 

[BlindZide]

Wow, awesome response! Thanks! I will sit the UV to the side. I really never had issues with algae except the normal cleaning the glass stuff.

Now with adjusting my return I have a bit of a dilemma. I think if I adjust it then my overflow would be faster and my sump would over flow. So I am thinking this valve idea may not work unless blocking some of the overflow teeth would slow the flow. Would I be better off doing either a dual or triple return to disperse the water different ways?

 

[BlindZide]

Can anyone comment on the return dilemma and point me in a direction to get the parts please?