Powerhead recommendation needed for 105G

[Deinonych]

Hello,

I'm in the process of piecing together a new 105G setup. Tank is 48x24x21 and will be FOWLR eventually moving to reef. I'm trying to determine which powerheads to purchase and how many. I'm considering two 6055s -- is that too much flow for my tank? Thanks in advance.

 

[rvitko]

It would be fine for a FOWLR or soft or LPS reef, it would be a bit on the low flow side for SPS, if you plan SPS, the 6095's would be a better choice.

 

[Deinonych]

I do plan to have SPS eventually. So, if I get the 6095s, I should just run them at their lowest setting for FOWLR, and raise the rate once I go to corals?

 

[rvitko]

The power supply includes jumpers for 12, 15, 18, 20, 22 and 24V, likely you will start at about 15-18V for the FOWLR and increase later when needed.

 

[Deinonych]

Great. Thank you very much for the assistance!

 

[TylerHaworth]

I just received a pair of 6095's for my build (I had a little chuckle when I saw Roger's name on the box) and they put out some massive flow for their size!

Definitely get the 6095's, don't skimp with the 6055's - You can always cut flow back, but you can't add more!

 

[Deinonych]

OK, here's an added wrinkle: could I get away with one 6095 at the beginning (FOWLR) and add another once I move to corals? At ~$270 a pop, it adds up quickly. My return pump will be an Eheim 1262.

 

[rvitko]

That would work, the flow will be low on the far end and detritus will tend to accumulate on the far end as the flow won't alternate, but the flow will be sufficient for the animals.

 

[Deinonych]

OK, that was what I was afraid of; I don't want detritus build up.

What about going with two lower-end models like the 6045 for FOWLR? Again, trying to keep my budget under control and get the tank up and running. I figure by the time I'm ready for corals, I can upgrade to the 6095 and sell (or repurpose) the 6045s. Does that make sense?

 

[TylerHaworth]

Save yourself the money in the long term and buy what you won't have to replace.

 

[Deinonych]

I may indeed do that. Still, would like to know if starting out with smaller powerheads would be satisfactory. I like to weigh all the possibilities.

 

[rvitko]

I would consider 2 6045's maxed out on a 75, a 3ft 60 is more where they are suitable. These are not controllable in the same way as the 6095's or 6055's, they have a very simple mechanical adjustment and no electronics controls. I could see a 6095 and a 6045 just to balance the far end or a single 6095, making due for a few months and adding the 2nd.

 

[Deinonych]

Great, thanks very much Roger. That info is extremely helpful!