using aquaclear powerfilter for U/G pump

[brackishdude]

I am a big fan of U/G filters. Bang for the buck. I just don't like the unsightly powerheads needed to drive them.

Does anyone have any experience using an aquaclear hang-over-the-back/on-the-rim power filters to drive a U/G? By connecting the U/G riser tube to the intake of the power filter, the power heads could be eliminated! Put one or two of the larger (Aquaclear 500, about 400GPH) models in, and you're set.

Plus, the power filers have the media chamber to add the filter-type of your choice! I mention aquaclear because another thread with testimonials recommends them highly.

THoughts?

 

[Gumby7]

I am not familiar with that model of HOB. If its like the old style HOB's I had before my canister it uses a siphon for the intake and an impeller for the return. This design doesn't do well with either drag (your undergravel grid and gravel) on the intake (siphon fails) or backpressure on the return (if you were thinking of RFUG) (flow rate drops dramatically).

If the design is impeller on intake and overflow return it *might* work ok as a UG. But generally HOB's don't do well with "add ons".

A better idea is to cut down the UG riser tube and stick a powerhead on it. Then hide the powerhead with a rock or something.

Gumby

 

[NJ Devils Fan]

Brackishdude, what size tank do you have?

 

[brackishdude]

110 gallon brackish

110 gallon brackish

I am currently using two U/G plates (one over each half of the tank) with two powerheads each. I have used pvc pipe and elbow connectors to divert the flow from each: up, then out left and right at the water line (also happends to be the top of the powerheads), with four exhausts, two to each side of the power head. The first exhasut to each side is made with a T-connector, the second (and last) is either an elbow or a 45 degree fitting. I have adjusted the direction from each exhaust to fit my needs.

This setup reduces the overall output per powerhead (drag from plumbing), but I still get significant flow, and it is dispersed well and custom tailored.

While it sounds elaborate, it is actually compact, and with each setup paitnted black and much of the plumbing just at/above the water level, no more obtrusive than the powerheads alone.

I also run two ehiem canisters, but would like to convert to a sump soon. I would like to keep the U/G though, just pulling enough water through to prevent stagnation. I figured 1 aquaclear per plate, with or without intensive media-driven filtration, would do the trick and be unobtrusive. I'm just lokking for low flow with pump out of sight. I would think it would have little resistance (drag) considering the large suface area under the plate and the relatively low flow rate.

eh?