Flow help for a 90

[MattToTheMax]

I'm not sure what to get for my new 90 gal (48x18x24) for flow. I'll have about 400 gph from my return. This will be a mixed reef (mix of softies, LPS, and a few SPS) with a shallow sandbed.

[hansmatt]

I have a 90g mixed reef, using 2x 6045 nanostreams, plus two additional powerheads. My tank is a peninsula, so the long edge is visible on both sides and in-tank visibility/space are important. Like the size, but need more flow. For the money I'd recommend a 6100, better control, more flow etc.

[MattToTheMax]

well 1 6100 would probably be enough flow, but I would have to be really careful with aquascaping, and i would worry about the sandbed, and there being too much flow on one side and not enough on the other, but it would be my cheapest option. I have been thinking more on 2x 6055 or 2x 6000 on each end with maybe having to get another small powerhead for dead spots (old maxijets laying around).

[rvitko]

Either 2 6000 or 2 6055 would work, the main reason to go with 6000's would be if you know the focus will be SPS and the higher flow and the ability to upgrade is important to you. Both pumps are backordered at the moment but the 6055 is a bigger problem, likely if you ordered now, you could get the pumps in late August.

[MattToTheMax]

I'm on the preorder list for the 6055, but last time I talked to the shop they didn't think they get them to july still. I like the 6055 because of size and price, but I was worried about them not being strong enough for a 4 ft long tank. The 6045/6025 seemed like they weren't very strong after a foot.

[hansmatt]

the 6045 has a very gentle, wide flow. you are right, cannot tell at 4' except the gentle wave of the xenia.

[joe77]

i have a 90 with a vortech powerhead and a tunze wavemaker on order.