I want to use the wavemaker feature on my reefkeeper elite. The problem I have is that I need some feedback on what powerheads are best suited for this. I would prefer they do not clack everytime they turn on. I am also unsure on what duty cycle they are designed to handle. I would imagine that the start-up and shutdown would cause extra wear and tear on them. The controllable hydor models seem like they use a DC motor which is controlled through the Hydor controller....they claim variable flow so this makes me think they are DC motors. That is unless they are using some sort of variable frequency drive (VFD) on AC motors. Any advice is appreciated.
Which Powerheads for wavemaker on Reefkeeper Elite?
- Thread starter mkengr45
- Start date
gatorlover
New member
I have 2 jbj oceanstream powerheads on a reefkeeper lite and in wavemode they are dead silent. been running for about a month so far with no issues.
TimeConsumer
Active member
Hydor controllable are DC motors that must be powered using Hydor's controller. The only thing comaptibl with the RKE on/off wavemaker would be an AC powerhead. I have personally used the Hydor Koralia Evolution's with an on/off wavemaker (not the RKE) and they do make a small audible "click". It didn't bother me after a while. But it is hard on the pumps and one of mine snapped. It still worked afterwards, but started backwards half the time.
I have also found that my Hydor Korlia Evo's can only be turned on and off with the RKE by using channel 1 or 4 on the PC4 because these are controlled by a mechanical relay. Channels 2 and 3 are controlled by a triac and the Hydor powerheads don't quite understand they're supposed to be turned off. Here's the response I received from DA:
"The issue is in the technology and how it interacts with different devices. There are two different type of switches used in the PC4 (and in other devices similar to the PC4.) Because both types of switches each have different strengths, we use both. We use both in order to provide our customers with choice. Channels 1 and 4 have a Relay. They can handle more current (Amps), and they have a mechanical on/off switch (which clicks when it switches.) [I have not noticed this] In Channel 2 and 3, there are Triacs. These devices switch silently and quickly. They also have a potentially longer lifespan. But some devices can become "stuck." In these cases, the Head Unit and PC4 both display that the power is off, but the device is still on. It has more to do with the way the device draws electricity from an outlet, than how much power they draw."
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