Yes, vortechs are not cheap, but they last have amazing customer service and would be the last powerhead you ever buy pretty much. Finding a good used one is semi-hard to do but possible and would be a good idea if possible. I am doing the same thing myself after years of playing the powerhead swap game.
As far as the evos go, go with the 1400's... you will need 2, and may still find yourself needing another pump if your doing SPS.
I realize I may need another, I'm going to redo the rock and see if between new powerheads and new rock scape, I can get a handle on it, though I may just order the third powerhead right away. Better to be ready and if I find I don't need it in this tank I have other tanks that would appropriate it.
I do like having them on a timer for the more erratic flow....do you think these power heads would make better use out my timer?
I realize I may need another, I'm going to redo the rock and see if between new powerheads and new rock scape, I can get a handle on it, though I may just order the third powerhead right away. Better to be ready and if I find I don't need it in this tank I have other tanks that would appropriate it.
I do like having them on a timer for the more erratic flow....do you think these power heads would make better use out my timer?
Just remember to be careful when you re scape not to stir the sand up to badly. Not sure of what your housing but it would be wise to store your livestock in QT tell your done and test the tank to insure you didn't spike any levels such as ammonia .good luck and looking forward to seeing the new look!
I'm going to have 20gal of new water ready in case, but right now nothing too sensitive. I was also going to use this chance to add new sand to the display which has dissolved over the last 3 years. Oh and thank you binford, you made me get artistic w/ my rock and I now have a picture in my head I think will improve my water flow and look way better.
So I finally got my koralias and the difference was noticeable right away. I am thinking I might get away w/ 2, but you never know. I have some acrylic rods for re scaping the rock coming the 5th. I know slow re do, Rome wasn't built in a day though.
Should probably include that I laso have the smart wave to go w/ the 2 new powerheads, so my options should be plentiful. Should I direct the to face each other, should I have one pointed to the front of the tank and the other side to side?
I have my two Evolutions 1400's in the upper back corners, down 8+/- inches from the top, pointed front center and slightly up so they overlap each other. They are set to switch every 30 seconds and have been running for almost 3 years that way now. I have 5-6" of Southdown sugar sand and it stays put