Why Flow Is as Important as Lighting
Proper flow is one of the most underrated aspects of reef keeping. Insufficient or poorly directed flow leads to algae problems, detritus buildup, and unhappy corals.
Water movement feeds corals, removes waste, prevents dead spots, drives gas exchange, and discourages pest algae.
How Much Flow?
The general rule is 20–50x tank volume per hour in total circulation. A 200L tank wants 4,000–10,000 LPH total. But the pattern matters as much as the volume — two moderate wavemakers creating random flow beats one powerhead blasting a single spot.
By coral type:
- Soft corals: Moderate, indirect flow
- LPS: Moderate — enough to sway tentacles, not tear tissue
- SPS: Strong, turbulent flow from multiple directions
The Main Options
Jebao/Jecod SOW or SLW Series — Budget champion from ~£30–50. App-controllable, multiple flow modes. Quality has improved massively in recent years.
EcoTech VorTech — The gold standard. Magnetic mount keeps the motor outside the tank. MP10 for tanks up to ~150L, MP40 for up to ~500L. £200–400+.
Maxspect Gyre — Creates wide, laminar flow across the full tank length rather than a focused jet. One Gyre can replace two traditional wavemakers.
AI Nero — Good middle ground between Jebao and EcoTech pricing. Quiet and app-controllable.
Placement Tips
Single wavemaker (under 200L): High on one end, angled slightly across and down. Two wavemakers (200L+): One on each end, different heights, alternating or random mode. Offset vertically so they don't blast directly at each other.
Common Mistakes
- Too much direct flow on corals — permanently retracted polyps mean too strong or too direct
- Dead spots behind rockwork — watch where detritus accumulates
- Switching off wavemakers at night — circulation is needed 24/7
Browse used wavemakers from UK sellers — EcoTech VorTech pumps especially hold up well on the used market.
What flow setup is working well for your tank?
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