Sand storm...pumps on or no?

[meegwell]

I just added sand to my tank as as expected ive got a big time sand storm. Should I leave powerheads on in the tank or not?

[thegrun]

If you are using a filter sock I would keep them on to keep the fine sand in suspension, otherwise turn them off to let it settle down quicker (assuming you have a sump/return pump running). If not leave the powerheads on, you want some water movement.

[garydan]

The pumps have bushings, the bushings are cooled and lubricated by water, the fine particles will basically sand down the bushings and kill the pumps... Been there, done that. I'd put on a cheap powerhead you don't care about if you want flow.