Power Head for undergravel filter

[dleves14]

I have a 30gal tank with an undergravel filter. What size power heads should I use?
I am looking at the Aqua Clear 301 - 175 gph. or the Aqua Clear 201 - 126 gph.
I will be using 2 of them. I am also using a Whisper 60 Power Filter on this tank.

Thanks

 

[Matak]

Hi, Welcome to AC!

Your tank and mine are similar. Have you considered a RFUGF? Much easier to maintain and much healthier for the fish. Have a look at my tank specs in the link below.

 

[RTR]

Also:

http://www.aquasource.org/CMS/modul...=Sections&file=index&req=viewarticle&artid=17

I use Penguin powerheads with the RFUG kit exclusively. Most are 1140s, some in smaller tanks are 660s.

 

[dleves14]

Thanks, very useful article. I had been using two Aqua Clear 401 (270 gph & 125 gph in reverse flow). My Tiger Barbs wouldn't go to the surface because the water was moving too much. I'm now thinking I should keep the power heads I have, but use them in the reverse flow mode. Would one of these power heads be sufficient, or should I use both?

Thanks Again.

 

[RTR]

AquaClears in reverse flow are extremely weak pumps, about 10% of rated flow or less. I do not ever use them for such, a huge waste of power.

Then you still would need to rig a prefilter for them, reducing flow still more.