Who uses wave makers

Using the Red Sea Wavemaster Pro on my main tank with 3 powerheads. They are configured to eleminate dead spots behind my rock wall, and the random surges of current that flow though open spots in the rock wall create a very nice random wave effect on the corals attached to it ;D

 

I really would love to get a wavemaker but they're so expensive

 

No kidding, I am trying to decide if they are worth it.

 

Just be clear we are talking about the same thing.... I have a MP40 but run it in reef crest mode. Not too many people actually use wave makers to make waves. Prop pumps are just superior pumps.

But look into actually making waves. Most tank makes and stands void waranttees if you make waves. I don't trust 800 pounds sloshing back and forth on my AGA stand. Even Eco Tech (Vortech) explicitly states to check with your tank maker before making waves. Switching flows and using controllers are not the same as making waves.

 

I use a SCWD....thats right. I guess I'll switch to the Oceans Motions Squirt when I get the "bucks" like AZ or win the lottery. ;D

The issues with the SCWD though is another one of those things. You never really know until you try. Thats why this website is so needed. If it means the unit becoming clogged or unusable because of scale build-up, then thats a problem (for me anyway). Don't know by experience, but through other 3reef members opinions.

Mostly, I never took into consideration that the SCWD also impedes flow. Not good at all. You spend $$ on massive pumps for extra flow, then knock them back in the same token?

I'd still like to know how a controller can make a chiller obsolete (AZ) ? What is an LMNOP moonlight fan?

 

I run the RKE, but use the OM 4-Way valve on my closed loop to change up the flow in the tank. So far, so go. This handles the full flow from the 3600 gph Dart pump that is used on the closed loop...

If I were to make any change...it would be to use a smaller pump...the hermits, snails, and urchins have all had a chance to ride the current around the tank a time or two...

...not that ever, really believed, that you could have too much flow....

 

Right, wavemakers don't necessarily need to make a standing wave like some people imagine but they can be used to simulate the motion of waves' effects on the reef which is just the simpler back and forth movement.
I think of it just as the two aspects of waves, lots of wavemakers will not allow you to accomplish a standing wave anyway since the pulsing has to be timed to the resonant frequency of the tank based on the dimensions of the tank, rockwork etc.

 

The good thing about closed loops is that there is no head loss to overcome... However, you are using 155w and drawing 1.4 amps to move the same amount of water a MP40 does with only 35 watts. Even without the head loss, closed loops are a very energy intensive way to move water.

 

They sure do a nice job of keeping equipment out of your display though.

 

2 Vortech MP40's in Reefcrest. Best pumps out there.