Who uses sea swirls?

[Swamp Donkey]

Good or bad?

 

[Pufferpunk]

I've only heard good things about them. Have one sitting here for my 90g upgrade!

 

[Edward Smith]

Did you get it for free? :lol:

 

[Sk8r]

I use a 1/2 inch in my 52 bow. Sweeping side to side with the flow bouncing off the arced glass, it keeps a pretty good flow going and I have no dead spots. I fudged the mount, putting it on the bowed downflow, contrary to manufacturer instructions, but an Allglass bow is built like a tank [pardon pun] and I think I'm safe.

My corals, particularly the lps, responded wildly to the chaotic flow. They like getting tossed around gently.

 

[Pufferpunk]

Actually paid $125 for a 1"er (included shipping) from a fellow in IN. Right after I got it, Ostrow was selling one for $100.

Free woulda been better!

 

[Doubledown]

I run 2 on each 180. 2 of them have been running for about 2 years without issue (knock on wood). I really do like them.

Sk8tr - it's more an issue of increased moisture getting into the SeaSwirl motor and electronics than stability of the tank. The manufacturer warns against corrosion issues when mounting to/over an overflow.

 

[RobTop]

After using mine for about 2 yrs the arm that swirls the out put broke. Easy fix of about $25 if I ever get around to it. It was great though.

 

[menard]

I have 2 X 1" in my 300. I just replace the motor 3 yrs ago.
They are great!! moisture will kill the motor inside. Now I service the unit anualy, that the same goes w/ my return pumps, PS pump, reactor pump.
If U do this they will last for ages.

 

[Pufferpunk]

Menard, What's involved in servicing it? I just purchased a used one. Should I take it apart & look it over? What should I look for?

 

[menard]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8273536#post8273536 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Pufferpunk
Menard, What's involved in servicing it? I just purchased a used one. Should I take it apart & look it over? What should I look for?

Jenny
The motor is CHEAPO, So take it apart, lubricate the swiveling rods and specially the plastic sleeves, so it can rotate freely, Ca build up over time, that puts a strain on the motor then explode. Lubricate the parts w/ Silicone grease.

 

[Swamp Donkey]

I guess I just measure my return into the tank to get the appropriate size? I was figuring 1/2".

 

[kerusso316]

Easy wave maker.I have a 1/2 inch on the wifes 150. It breaks stactic flow of the seieo's.It creates a nice surge then release.It redirects the power heads flow to give a nice wave action for not alot of $.

 

[ostrow]

www.ostrows.us for video of an MJ Stream mod mounted onto the swirl.

 

[Sk8r]

THank you, doubledown, I'll be on the lookout for that. Unfortunately in a corner bow, that's my only choice, but that piece of equipment I am firmly convinced is responsible for the good growth and health of my tank, which is thus far bulletproof, no matter what fool things I've done, and I'll be more than willing to spring for a replacement when this one dies the death.