Foam Cover for VorTech

Discussion in 'Filters, Pumps, etc..' started by Biocube, Jul 28, 2012.

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  1. Biocube

    Biocube Giant Squid

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    How many of you run the VorTech foam covers on your powerhead? Reason I ask is because weekly I need to take my MP10 out of the water and clean it because it starts to make a slight "grinding noise" due to sand. I have changed placement and flow patters and I still have this issue with sand.
     
    Biocube, Jul 28, 2012
    Biocube, Jul 28, 2012
    #1

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  2. Thatgrimguy

    Thatgrimguy Flying Squid

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    I have never noticed that issue.

    I used the foam heads, but found they were WAY more work than they were worth. And they restricted a HUGE amount of flow. I quickly threw mine in the trash.
     
    Thatgrimguy, Jul 28, 2012
    Thatgrimguy, Jul 28, 2012
    #2
  3. Biocube

    Biocube Giant Squid

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    Maybe I have a bad wet side again. When I got my MP10 I had two DOA wet sides. :-/
     
    Biocube, Jul 28, 2012
    Biocube, Jul 28, 2012
    #3
  4. bwalker9801

    bwalker9801 Zoanthid

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    Never used them either.
     
    bwalker9801, Jul 28, 2012
    bwalker9801, Jul 28, 2012
    #4
  5. MarineDepot

    MarineDepot 3reef Sponsor

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    The foam covers are great to use when keeping anemones. You will notice a more narrow stream of water flow when using the foam covers though and you will need to clean it regularly.

    I suggest disassembling the wetside and inspecting the shaft. The propeller should spin at least two full rotations when you flick it with your finger. Newer wetsides can be stiff and may take some time to break in. Also, make sure that the shaft is straight, otherwise it could cause the magnet to rub against the base.

    How old is your MP10 and are you using the rubber spacer? It is recommended to use the rubber spacer for aquariums with less than 3/8 inch thick glass or acrylic.

    Dan
     
    MarineDepot, Jul 28, 2012
    MarineDepot, Jul 28, 2012
    #5
  6. Biocube

    Biocube Giant Squid

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    Hey Dan!

    I need to clean mine once a week by tearing to apart and rinsing sand particles out. I use the rubber spacer. The unit is about 6 months old.
     
    Biocube, Jul 28, 2012
    Biocube, Jul 28, 2012
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  7. BUGz

    BUGz Spanish Shawl Nudibranch

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    Apache Junction, AZ - USA
    I use the foam covers on all my MP's as I also have RBTA's in the MP tanks. I have not noticed too much flow reduction using them. My cleaner shrimp and clowns also help to keep the foam clean.

    If you are getting sand in them, I would think turning them down and/or moving them further up away from the sand bed would help. With their wonderful undertow, sand displacement can be a problem if you have fine sand like the sugar size.
    Good luck!
     
    BUGz, Jul 28, 2012
    BUGz, Jul 28, 2012
    #7
  8. Biocube

    Biocube Giant Squid

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    Thanks everyone for the help! When I go home from work today I need to clean it again. I have been powerhead-less since 10am.

    The Mp10 is pretty high off the sand so idk how it's getting inside so often.


    Left side (old pic)
    ImageUploadedByTapatalk1343521082.238158.jpg
     
    Biocube, Jul 28, 2012
    Biocube, Jul 28, 2012
    #8