How much flow for RUGF?

[Grundy]

I am considering changing the UGF in my 125 gallon to a RFUG. I currently use airstones in the corners and two powerheads in the middle. Two questions:
1. How much flow and how many powerheads would you recommend for this?
2. Do I need to tear down the tank and get the remaining mulm out before changing over? (not something I am looking forward to)
I know, I know, many don't like UGF's but they make sense to me intellectually so it is something I am considering.
Thanks!

 

[Needeles]

1. How much flow and how many powerheads would you recommend for this?

Well you will want at least 1000GPH total in the filter system. If you have other filters then they will help. I would also use 4 powerheads of the same type. Using the airstones and the powerheads together is not going to work well. The flow is not constant and the effect will not be what it is supposed to be.

2. Do I need to tear down the tank and get the remaining mulm out before changing over? (not something I am looking forward to)

Well it would be a good idea to get all the gunk out but there are ways around it. You could use some small airline tubing, stick that down the UGF intake tubes and start the suction. Do this in each tube and be sure to move the tubing around under the plates. This will remove most of the gunk. What it doesn't the powerheads will pull up. You will then need to clean the powerheads every week or so for the first couple weeks as they may get clogged from the gunk you missed.

I also agree with you on the RUGF system. I myself use one and it works wonderful. It pushes up the gunk and the HOB I have sucks it out. Works like a charm this way and I would recommend doing the same.

 

[Grundy]

Thanks for the advice!