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Filter/powerhead


desmo13

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in a 6 gal, should I run a just a maxi-jet (how many) or a HOB? I have read and heard the stock eclipse filter system doesnt quite cut it for flow. but it is the same principle as a HOB right?

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Yes the over tank style filter in eclipse systems uses the same principles as a hob style filter system. When I used my eclipse hex 5 as a saltwater tank I kept the stock filter w/o bio-wheel and added a small powerhead in the opposite corner. As far as what size to get(powerhead), it depends on what you plan on keeping. Everyone one this site has views about flow. Some prefer alot, some prefer milder. IMO find a power head with about 100~120gph with a good adjustable output director. If aimed properly, combined with the 35gph most eclipse system 5,6,7's filter systems provide, you should be in the middle to upper part of the "average" flow rates for most ppl. with tanks that size.

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Directing powerhead flow can be tricky, IMO that's the hardest part. Post some pics of your setup, it helps others in the long run searching for answers to similar questions. Goodluck with your tank.

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here is a couple pics.

http://www.nano-reef.com/gallery/showphoto...00&ppuser=15558

http://www.nano-reef.com/gallery/showphoto...00&ppuser=15558

 

since then, I moved the heater to horizontal, in the center, added a AC20 to the left side.

 

By looking at some hair algea and particles floating in the tank, my flow seems random. one momement something blows to the left, then next, the right.

 

So I seems to have a random flow created by the two.

 

new question, heard different answers. do I even need the stock eclipse6 filter?

 

Also, should I install the air tubing?

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Looks good. No need for air tubing or pumps, the motion from the powerhead at the surface is enough for oxygen exchange. It's up to you if you want the stock eclipse filter, some ppl. ditch it and make a fuge from an aftermarket HOB - this also makes room for more lighting above the tank.

 

If your a DIY type of person you could make a canopy for these

http://www.thatpetplace.com/Products/KW/F5...0/Itemdy00.aspx

http://www.thatpetplace.com/Products/KW/F5...9/Itemdy00.aspx

http://www.thatpetplace.com/Products/KW/F5...7/Itemdy00.aspx

 

OR

 

purchase one of these hoods and have a slight overhang on the sides

http://www.thatpetplace.com/Products/KW/F5...1/Itemdy00.aspx

http://www.thatpetplace.com/Products/KW/F5...2/Itemdy00.aspx

 

I'm not sure how the legs adjust on the current usa models, I own a coralife and the legs are adjustable width wise in a track.(part of my reason for choosing it, I own a 29g with a width of 30" and purchased a 36" for the extra wattage. I also painted the end 3" of each side of the splash shield to prevent light spillage on the sides of the tank, making the setup look ghetto.)

 

With the footprint of your tank (about a sq. ft.) I would go with 32~50w, this will allow you to keep polyps,soft, and LPS. If you choose to make a canopy for the 96w retrofit above, you could keep all that and sps.(wouldn't go for any clams, small ones req. MH and ones you could keep would quickly outgrow 6 gallons)

 

Well hope all this helps.

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i went with the following for $23 bucks + some misc stuff....:

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod...=1&N=2004&Nty=1

 

it's (1) 10k and (1) actinic for a total of 18watts.

 

rather than cut up the hood on my eclipse 6, i got rid of it all together and cut a piece of plexi-glass for cover and just propped this up there. i have room for a second and will be ordering shortly for a total of 36watts.

 

it does run hot so i've removed on of the side covers, drilled some holes on the other side and put up a recycled computer fan on one side pulling air across. now not even warm. real cool. when i get a chance, i'll post pix. still working it out.

 

so far spent:

- light - $23

- home depot - plexi-glass, ac/dc adapter for computer fan - $20

- fan - free from old computer case

 

good luck... i'll keep you posted.

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Or for even less I did do this with my hex 5

DSC01343.JPG

 

I used two 10w blubs from walmart in that photo later upgrading to two 20w coil style blubs from lights of america (sunlight model, will say 6500k on base of blub in small letters).

 

Home Depot

2 lamp sockets - $4.00

6' 3way extension cord - $1.00 (cut off end and you have cord and plug in one)

liquid electrical tape - $5.00

Walmart

2 pack 6500k 20w blubs - $9.00

various nuts and bolts - around the house

small pc. of plexi - $1, used acrylic photo frame from dollar store and trimmed it down

used a timer so I didn't bother with a switch.

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ray8375 - Yeah only downside is I've never seen a "screw-in" actinic only blub. Now on my 29g I have a 192w coralife w/ a 96w 10k daylight and a 96w actinic

 

desmo13 - Seems like a good choice, whats the stock wattage on the NO that came with the eclipse hood?

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Normal output, like the fluorescent light in your garage.

PC lighting (power compact)

VHO lighting (very high output)

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