Flow Rate for 180 Gallon

[Monte455]

I just picked up a 180 gallon tank, gonna move my 55 gallon reef into this tank eventually. I am looking for suggestions for return pumps (mostly flow rate vs. brand), there will be about a 5 foot pump height. Also suggestions for a skimmer would be appreciated too.

[Bloodydecks]

I just picked up a 180 gallon tank, gonna move my 55 gallon reef into this tank eventually. I am looking for suggestions for return pumps (mostly flow rate vs. brand), there will be about a 5 foot pump height. Also suggestions for a skimmer would be appreciated too.

what size drain/return line are you using?

I would recommend at least 2400 gallons per hour. And good placement of the return nozzles for ideal water movement. Two in the front corners (entering from the top), and two in the back, maybe about 12" from the ends of the tank, along the back, a few inches below the top. I would use some sort of occulting device that can be used in line like a Sea Swirl or a SCWD.


SCWD
sea swirl

[julesjt]

I am also moving to a 180 wide 6'x2'x2' with double overflow. I am i need to know which pump to buy. There seems to be the MAG brand not sure which number to go with?

[Bloodydecks]

I would not go any higer then the Mag 1800. The 2400 is really loud. With about 5 feet of head presure, and a split (a "T" or "Y") two 1800 would give you about 2400 gal per hour. This would provide you with a back up pump if one was to fail.

[metalhead]

I use a reeflo barracuda (4500 gph I think). My DT is bare-bottom though and I run a lot of flow so take that into consideration if you plan on having a DSB in the display.