Power head placement question? Need a little help!

[kevinmichael77]

So I've come to the conclusion that flow is a problem in my tank and may be what is inhibiting my plant growth and encouraging algae growth. My tank is a mr. Aqua 33.6 gal which I think the dimensions are like 24.4x17.7x17.7 and I have the outflow and the inflow of my lily pipes mounted on the same side of the tank. I run pressurized co2 as well.

My question is where would the ideal place be to put the power head? I was given a vortech mp10 for a gift and am just not sure wether to place it opposite the lily pipes or on the same side. Main concern is the distribution of co2. If its opposite the outflow will it push the co2 away from that side of the tank or is that not a concern? I have a lot of dead spots now and plant matter that doesn't get filtered so a change is needed.

Any experience or knowledge on power head placements would be appreciated!

Thanks

[NWA-Planted]

I try to create a circular movement in my tank

[kevinmichael77]

I don't know much about the mp10 other than its mainly for reef tanks. Do you think it's to much from briefly researching it I see it has a lot of setting options.

What's the best way to test the flow within the tank?

[Trickerie]

I too create a circular flow of water. I have 2 koralia nano 240's in my 25g. One on the left pointing up, and one on the right pointing down. My inflow pipe is below the left koralia, and my outflow spraybar is vertical near the one on the right. Optimally, you want the water flow to bounce off of the glass, creating a more subtle, but wider movement. You also want your plants to sway slightly, almost like wind moving through them.

[kevinmichael77]

I gotcha. I don't think this particular model has any angle options.

[Trickerie]

You could always save that one for a bigger, future tank. You'd have to keep it on its lowest setting or else itd be too much flow IMO. Grab a few koralia nano 240's from amazon, they are about $30 each and are the best IME. They offer a subtle, wide flow and are very small.

[kevinmichael77]

Well I gotta make due with the mp10. I've already put 3x more into this tank than I originally budgeted for.

Think if I just but it in the middle opposite the outflow it would suffice? Will this affect the co2 distribution at all?

[kevinmichael77]

Anyone?

[kevinmichael77]

So will it matter if it's same side if lily pipes or opposite side from a co2 perspective?

[Trickerie]

I would put the powerhead directly across from the output lily pipe. The vortex creates a pull, so pushing water in that direction would give good flow I think.

Optimally, you'd want your lily pipes on opposite sides, but as long as you have some movement from the other side I think you will be ok.

[kevinmichael77]

And that won't effect co2 disburtion?

[Trickerie]

Well it largely depends on how you diffuse your co2. However, as long as you are getting some water movement throughout the tank, you are ok. I'd be more concerned with the levels of co2 at your substrate. Get a few drop checkers if you want to be sure. Place one near the substrate in an area you suspect has low co2.

[kevinmichael77]

I use a inline atomizer for diffusion. I mounted it opposite the lily output so I'll just see how it goes, easy enough to move. Set it on low with the lagoon setting.