Wavemaker?

[RayAllen3422]

Do you think a wave maker is required. I had a Tunze one in my previous tank but for the money it didn't seem to do much.

 

[Deftones2015]

I personally don't think they're worth the money, BUT this is one of the many highly debatable topics haha. I prefer controllable power heads.

 

[chimmike]

What size tank? What's the goal?

 

[RayAllen3422]

Still looking for a tank but shooting for 125 gallon tank with all corals maybe SPS but doubtful.

 

[toothybugs]

I like the ability to create a surge, not necessarily a standing wave, so I second controllable powerheads, be they Jebao, Tunze, or VorTech.

 

[A1t2o]

It is good for the corals so that more of the polyps get light, not just the same part of it all day long. The movement means that you will get less coral burn to the top and more light to the sides and underside. Of course this is not a great amount of difference here but it is closer to natural ocean conditions.

 

[Ron Reefman]

They are not absolutely necessary, but I think the more random flow they create helps mimic the ocean and more importantly spreads things around better in the tank.

 

[NS Mike D]

They are not absolutely necessary, but I think the more random flow they create helps mimic the ocean and more importantly spreads things around better in the tank.

Agree.

Keep in mind that wave makers will wear our AC powerbeads faster. DC are better suited for constant on and off cycling. The wave maker will do a better job of spending debris around and creating tank whirlpools.

I decided to compromise the wear and tear on my powerheads by going with a tidal flow pattern alternating on 6 hour cycles. Both powerheads on the same side wall, one on the top going up and to the back and the other closer t the bottom going down and to the front. You can do this cycle with two cheap timers in lieu of a wave maker. I do like the feeding cycle on the wave maker, conveniently shutting down both head when I target feed or do water changes.

My sump return adds a bit of turbulence to the flow.

 

[firemountain]

SPS will benefit more for varied and alternating wave patterns. People report better polyp extension with using them.

Are they absolutely necessary...probably not. Do I use one...yes!