Reserve Water Question

[jhrivera]

I was wondering what type of equipment I should use for my reserve water container? Also, how much movement do I need? I'm using a large 60 gallon rubbermaid garbage can. I was considering either a water pump or a powerhead or two.

[OrionGirl]

I have a cover, and 2 powerheads that are pointed in opposite directions, and a heater. I don't worry about having a lot of movement, just enough that I can tell it's moving. I usually have one that's close to the surface, to encourage surface agitation and then the other to encourage it moving from the bottom up. One large pump with a pipe to the surface would work as well.

[jhrivera]

Thanks a lot OrionGirl. I was leaning towards the powerheads because they're a bit cheaper.

[jhrivera]

I'm having a bit of trouble with my reserve water container (44 gallon rubbermaid plastic container). I have tried to place two powerheads inside, but the suction cups keep detaching from the container wall, and the powerheads along with the heater keep falling to the bottom of the container. The container is circular. Could that be the cause? How do I keep the suction cups from detaching? Should I use some kind of underwater epoxy? I trying to think of any other way to keep the suction cups attached without using glue.

[frosty]

I stick the heater on the bottom and I use an airpump with the stone on the bottom instead of messing with powerheads.

[jhrivera]

Is it okay for the heater to touch the bottom of the container? I thought that eventually that might cause the plastic to melt. Also, how much water movement do you think I would need for my 44 gallon container? Would an air pump rated for 20-40 gallons be good enough, or could I get a smaller air pump?

[mogurnda]

If you're worried about the heater, put it in a jam jar on the bottom of the trash can.

Powerheads are probably a better way to go than air pumps. Air pumps will give you a lot more evaporation and salt creep. I just throw a hagen 402 into mine. Sitting on the bottom is fine.

[jhrivera]

Will the powerheads sitting at the bottom of the container mix up the salt and water pretty good? That was something I was worried about.

[mogurnda]

Mine do. It's all mixed within an hour.

[frosty]

ya, if its mixed water powerheads are better, Mine isnt mixed just stored.

[jhrivera]

Thanks for all of your help guys. Much appreciated.