How Do Saltwater Fish Tank Pumps (Power Heads) Work?

TL;DR

Saltwater fish tank pumps, also called power heads, circulate water by drawing it through a strainer and directing it back into the tank. A large strainer helps protect fish and other delicate inhabitants, while routine cleaning removes debris or sand from the impeller area. Parts such as the impeller and o-ring may eventually need replacement, so read on for specific maintenance and selection guidance.

Transcript

this is an ACCI jet pump this is a standard lookup of power head there'll be a hanger so it hides on the side of the tank and one thing to look for on a power head or a pump power heads another name for a pump and in the aquarium industry is something with a large strainer is that if you have a small strainer your fish could possibly get stuck in t... Read More

Key Insights

• 🤕 Power heads, or pumps, are essential for saltwater tanks as they provide water circulation and prevent fish from getting stuck.
• 🤕 Choosing a power head with a large strainer is important to avoid fish or debris being trapped in the pump.
• 🤕 Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the impeller and inspecting the shaft, is crucial for the optimal performance of power heads.
• 🤕 Aqua Clear power heads offer a quick clear filter cartridge for efficient tank cleaning.
• 😄 Magnetic power heads, like the Hide or Corellia, are gaining popularity due to their ease of use and strong hold.
• 🤕 Magnetic power heads allow for easy placement and adjustment within the tank.
• 😒 Some power heads, like the Hide or Corellia, use a propeller instead of an impeller, providing a larger water volume and ideal for creating currents in reef tanks.

Questions & Answers

Q: How do saltwater fish tank pumps work?

A power head draws water through its strainer and blows it out through a directional tube. Tubing can also be attached when the pump is needed to power another device.

Q: Why should a saltwater tank power head have a large strainer?

A large strainer draws water through a broader area and reduces the chance that fish or other delicate tank inhabitants will become trapped against the pump. This is especially useful in tanks containing delicate fish or anemones.

Q: How do you clean a saltwater fish tank power head?

Unplug the power head, remove it from the tank, and twist the housing until the cap comes off. Remove and inspect the impeller, then clear debris or sand from inside the pump with a cotton swab or tube brush.

Q: What should you inspect when a power head stops working?

Check the impeller area for debris, since an obstruction may stop the pump. Also inspect the shaft for wear, which can cause the magnet to rattle and indicate that the impeller should be replaced.

Q: When should a power head's o-ring be replaced?

The transcript recommends inspecting and replacing the o-ring after 2 or 3 years because it can deteriorate over time. The replacement part is available, and the power head is described as easy to reassemble.

Q: What does an Aqua Clear quick clear filter cartridge do?

The cartridge attaches to an Aqua Clear power head or other power heads and contains filter floss. According to the transcript, it can clear the tank in a matter of hours.

Q: How is a propeller power head different from an impeller pump?

The Hide or Corellia power head uses a propeller rather than an impeller. It moves a large volume of water through its cage and is well suited to creating strong currents in a reef tank.

Q: Why are magnetic power heads popular in saltwater tanks?

Their magnetic suction-cup holders make the pumps easy to position in the tank and hold them firmly in place. The featured propeller model is also described as relatively inexpensive, easy to use, and rarely needing disassembly.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Power heads, also known as pumps, are used in saltwater tanks for water circulation and preventing fish from getting stuck.

• Look for power heads with large strainers to avoid fish getting trapped. The Backseat Jet is one option that includes a decent-sized strainer.

• Power heads may require cleaning and parts replacement, such as inspecting the impeller, shaft, and o-ring. Aqua Clear power heads offer a quick clear filter cartridge as an alternative.