Water circulation in recently-setup tank/Powerhead

[mcps95]

Hello all,

I had a couple questions regarding water circulation in my new 55 gal FW aquarium. I've had freshwater tanks on-and-off for many years, but they've mainly been 20 gal or less. About 6 weeks ago, I set up a 55 gal with a TetraTec 300 power filter and internal heating capsule (which despite the things I read about it after buying it, I've been pretty satisfied with so far...especially the internal heater which is hidden from view).

I'm starting to think the TetraTec 300 is a little on the light side in terms of its flow rate, even with it's dual-output (one alternating, due to the wet/dry bio filter). The TetraTec is positioned in the middle of the left hood cover (total of two on the tank).

It seems that the water in the tank doesn't circulate very well, resulting in particles settling to the bottom of the tank. I've also used water clarifier, which seems to clump properly but settle to the bottom as well.

I'm thinking that for a tank this size with this filter, I may need additional water circulation from a powerhead. I would likely place this on the opposite end of the tank.

A couple questions, however:

1) It seems that powerheads are typically discussed in conjunction with a UGF. Is this necessary or can a powerhead be operated independently of other equipment?

2) I've read that a powerhead should move the entire water contents of the tank about 6 times per hour. Would a ~300 gph powerhead be sufficient (also considering the water flow generated by the filter)? I was thinking about the high-end Maxi-Jet model, which I believe is about 297 gph).

3) Is grounding the tank a necessity when introducing a powerhead?

Before anyone writes back and asks, I'll attempt to give all the rest of the pertinent details on the tank:

55 gal
TetraTec 300 with int. heading capsule
bubble wall across 80% of the back wall of tank (which I originally thought would provide enough additional circulation)
no live plants
3 Bala Sharks
3 Pictus Cats
3 Clown Loaches

Please let me know if there are any other details I've left out.

Any info would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,
Mike

[OrionGirl]

1) Yes, they can. Most come with a clamp that can hong over the edge of the tank, or suction cups, to attach it where you need it. I have them in all my tanks--and no UGF.

2) I prefer to use 2 smaller ones, so I can have one on either end of the tank. I think this provides more constant levels of movement, except in those areas I specifically leave protected. One large one will work--just know that it won't get as much coverage as 2 smaller ones.

3) Nope, but it's not a bad idea. I only ground my SW tanks, since they hold a charge much better than the FW tanks.