Powerheads are responsible for creating the motion in the water of your aquarium. This movement is essential to the health of all the living creatures in your tank and enables it to mimic a natural environment. Choosing the correct powerhead for your tank will ensure its inhabitants are healthy and the pressure and flow don’t disrupt their environment. Gerber’s Tropical Fish in Dayton, OH, explains some of the most common powerhead options to help you choose the best fit for your reef tank.

Here are three powerhead options to consider for your reef tank:

• Wide-Flow Propeller: These powerheads are a popular choice because they move water in all areas of the tank and aren’t too powerful. In many cases, a flow that’s too strong will cause your corals to close up, which is the opposite of what you want in your reef tank. These powerheads operate at a low velocity and provide a constant, natural flow pattern.
• Jet Stream Flow: Jet stream flow is a direct and targeted with a smaller nozzle for output. These powerheads are a good choice for an aquarium with fish, since they are not bothered by the powerful stream of water. Small corals also do well in a reef tank with this type of powerhead, as they require a strong flow to wash away waste and slime from their tissue.
• Cross Flow: These powerheads offer a constant speed mode with low noise and provide a laminar flow that will move water efficiently around your tank. You can place these powerheads vertically or horizontally, depending on what your needs are. For example, you might want to place the powerhead vertically in the back of your tank to ensure water flows around any rocks or peninsulas to eliminate dead spots in your tank.

Whichever powerhead you choose, make sure it will fit the size of your tank and provide the proper water movement. The experts at Gerber’s Tropical Fish will help you make sure you select the right powerhead to keep your reef tank healthy. Call (937) 297-0515 today to speak to a member of their staff. For more information on reef tanks, powerheads, and aquarium supplies, visit them online.