Powerheads

[SeaHorse_Fanatic]

Many reefers use powerful return pumps as a semi-closed loop to get the extra flow. The drawbacks are: too much flow means not enough time for the skimmer to pull out all the crap in the water before its shot back up.
High flow returns often mean high electricity consumption = higher hydro bill. Stream pumps, like Hydor Koralias & Tunzes are very low power consumption pumps. Also, will the bigger return also mean more heat generated, which could lead to problems in the summer. I find the Hydor Koralias to be the best bang for the buck in terms of flow versus cost versus power consumption. A HK4 is rated for 1200gph I believe and selling in the LFS around here for about $55.

A more expensive flow alternative is to go with a wavebox. Tunze or Wave2k waveboxes produce a lot of flow & really are supposed to cause your corals to get unreal polyp extension.

Anthony