random or chaotic internal currents

[Sean Smith]

I purchased three heavy duty powerheads today to provide current in my new 85 gallon tank. I hace read an article on this discussion board that gives me an indication of where to place them. I was interested to know peoples' ideas and experiences of switching on/off powerheads to get different current patterns.

The obvious answer seems to me to buy timers.... but frequency/duration/alternatives... I have no idea.

:?:

[Irisservice]

A Wavemaker would make a good choice.
http://www.reeffanatic.com/cgi-bin/mas/category.cgi?item=WAVE_RSWP&type=store

[HoopsGuru]

If you want to spend the money, I agree a wavemaker is worth its price.

Timers would be a cheaper alternative.

Another way would be to face some of the PH at each other at an angle. As the currents hit each other, they will chaotically "bounce" around the rest of the tank.

[Pineapple House]

I also agree that a wave maker would be good to have.

A timer for some power heads might also be good to have. There are some power heads that will slowely move from right to left, creating changing currents. From my personal experience, don't bother with these. They will likely get stuck in a week and become a regular powerhead; none moving. I would personally go with 3 or more power heads in a tank, depending on what you are keeping, and tank size.

It's always good to consider having a gas exhange in the tank; By having one power head pointed upwards, to make small ripples in the water. This will also most likely bounce off the front glass, adding some currents around that portion of the tank.

Just fool around with adding power heads, have fun and experament with 'em, and changing currents. This is the part where you and your personality comes into gear :-)

PH =)