180gal Pump question

[Galantra]

Ok i have a question minus finding the right skimmer. I am looking to set up a sump for my 180gal tank but i am looking to add a pump with just enough flow so i dont need to place power heads within the tank. My question really is what pump do i use or will i end up needing to use a powerhead anyway? I am looking to get in a range of stony and some soft corals i was looking into getting a sequence dart or a hammerhead or would that be too much

 

[tommy818]

on my 180 i use blueline 70 rld 1500 gph champion lighting.com i have all sps so i added 2 powerheads for added current .

 

[masterswimmer]

All depends on what flow your overflows can handle. A 1" overflow can only handle 600 gph. If you have dual 1" overflows then you're safe with 1200 gph. Depending on what holes are already drilled, you might be able to use larger pipe.

Give us some details with the above constraints in mind and we can help you better.

swimmer

 

[RyanG]

Have your tank drilled for a closed loop. I dont think that overflows and returns will be sufficient flow to eliminate powerheads.

 

[vinny]

agree with ryan

 

[Galantra]

My tank is currently not using the drain pipes i do have 1inch overflows. I was thinking of making both overflow to drains pipes and have a unit that return around the top of the tank i notice this method on other tanks. Looks little complex for me. I was thinking of close loops but i am unsure about how to go about it plus the tank is filled any help?

 

[BZOFIQ]

NO way to get away without poweheads in 180 unless you pre-drill for closed-loop with a major size pump.

Remember, hardly anybody has too much flow.

 

[ari5736]

I have a blueline 70 on my 125 with 2x 3/4 drains and 3x returns (2 fitted with eductors). Drains keep up fine with this pump. For added flow I use 4 powerheads, otherwise would need C.L. for dead spots that 3 returns can't touch (more so in a 180).

 

[LIguy]

I have the oceanic 180. My return is a reeflo snapper. I use all 4 holes as 1" drains, then have 2 returns connected to 1" seaswirls. I also have a tunze wavemaker and a 6000 in the tank.

Unless you plumb for a closed loop, I don't think you can not have any power heads in the tank.

 

[Galantra]

LIguy do you have any photos of your setup? maybe i could base mine like yours