Closed Loop Systems (1 Viewer)

[ChrisB]

I've been doing some reading up on folks that have replaced their powerheads with closed loop systems that utilize an SCWD. They say one added benefit is getting the PHs out of the tank which can introduce unwanted heat. I have a 55g reef tank and was curious if anyone has gone this route and do you see any benefits. I would think removing any unwanted noise from the powerheads constanly humming would help out as well.

 

[Guest]

It also looks nicer than having umpteen powerheads in your tank.

 

[AggieBrandon]

your external pump will still add noise and heat to your system. You could put it inside a sound proof enclosure I suppose. I'm not sure if I would go closed loop on a 55 gallon I think I would upgrade to a larger tank and then do it but that's just me

Brandon

 

[Wildfire]

Use a Dolphin AquaSeas pump as your external pump (granted, for a 55 that might flatten some fish, but if you put enough diffusion on the output it would look cool).

The upside (in my mind) for a closed loop is that you don't need 'x' plugs anymore (I'm down to 2 electrical connections for pumps, instead of 7) and the heat is better dissipated outside of the tank by radiation into the air (external pump) rather than into the water.

You can also get some neato wavermaker type devices (see www.oceancurrents.com for an example) and then build threaded connections onto your closed loop to give your self motion with no additional power / heat transfer needed.

 

[Guest]

I agree with Brandon - upgrade your tank first, but when you do get a bigger tank, a closed loop is very nice to have.

And forget the SCWDs - look at www.oceansmotions.com for the best wavemakers out there today. I just got my OM 4 way and it's impressive.

 

[DRH]

Wow, those look very useful... Would you please give a full review Mike? Are you using those Revolution heads on the OM-4? Are the outputs FPT or slip?

Thanks!
Darrell