To make waves....or not?

[Dirt4dinner]

Ok gang,
I feel like my tank just about complete as far as hardware goes. However, the more I read stuff the more I think I might need to start up a wave machine. So, thus my question comes. Do you use a wave machine? How many power heads do you have on the system? Do you really think it is a necessity/ worthwhile investment?
Thanks, as always, for the advice! -DIRT4DINNER!

[Reptoreef]

I use a wave maker and like how it appears to do a great job of replicating the chaotic surges seen in the natural environment of the oceans. I believ that there are other ways just as efficient, such as a return based on bringing in water equally to several returns via a manifold... IMO, contact Dakar or Davejnz for their oppinions as to how the "baffle method" works for them.

[Reptoreef]

I use a wave maker and like how it appears to do a great job of replicating the chaotic surges seen in the natural environment of the oceans. I believ that there are other ways just as efficient, such as a return based on bringing in water equally to several returns via a manifold... IMO, contact Dakar or Davejnz for their oppinions as to how the "baffle method" works for them.

[jerryc]

No not absolutely necessary i just use 2* 800 gallon power heads to bounce water of the Glass. But it is a good think if you have it

[graphixx]

if you can afford it than sure. they are great at recreating the surges in the ocean. but if you have adequate powerheads I think you are fine.

[davejnz]

No,I don't use one.I have 5 outputs/returns/PH's in my one tank,and its not enough.The tank/project i'm working on now,will have 7. If you already have adequate water movement,than switching currents via a wavemaker can be a good idea.Problem is,most reef tanks don't fall into this category.If you only have 4 powerheads in your tank,and only 2 of them are on at a time,there isn't as much current than if all 4 were on.So in some situations,a wavemaker wouldn't be much of a benefit IMO.

[Dirt4dinner]

Thanks everyone. I got a great deal on one from ebay....even a local seller! So, I am going to give it a shot and see how it goes. If I am not happy with it, then someone on the forum will get even a better deal!