Norman24

ok so i got a good deal on some misc. aquarium supplies today. part of it was 2 used powerhead 802's. im not at all familliar with powerheads or what there really used for. I wouldl ike to use them in my 55 gal. if they work right. i just need to know what the purpose of them is, what size are these for, how do you test if they work and setting everything up? thanks

michael68

I just used a powerhead to agitate the surface of the water to create o2.What kind of filter system do you have?

Norman24

its an aquatech 30-60

outlaw

Welcome to Fishlore!

Does it look like this?
http://www.aquariumguys.com/aquaclear22.html



Use: usually used to agitate water surface for gas exchange or help circulate water for filtration. Also used in Saltwater for currents and bringing food and nutrients to corals.
Size: I don't think you can really get one too small for the tank, but definitely don't want one too big. For obvious reason number 1. The spaced used in the tank. 2. too much current can harm the fish if pushing them into the decor. 3. Can push around gravel,decor. 4. Make a whirlpool.
If you did end up having one too small, you would just need more to make up for the lack of current provided by the smaller one or upgrade to a slightly larger one.
Mounting: Some are like your filter, HOB (Hang on back) and some will have suction cups on them so you can position nearly anywhere in the tank. CAUTION- Some powerheads may have a water line to not go below which could cause damage. Typically, try not to run the pump dry (out of water).

**MAKE SURE POWER PLUG IS NOT IN OR TOO CLOSE TO WATER**
Testing: You can setup in a sink (preferably a tub) that is large enough. Just fill with water so the powerhead can be submerged, then turn on. I usually hang the power cord on the bathroom door to keep it off the floor.

I am not familiar with that particular powerhead, but some have a flow control so having one too powerful may not be as bad as one without control.

If your powerhead is the one in the picture/link above, it says it is rated for upto 70gals. As long as the current isn't too powerful for the fish, it sounds like a perfect size.

For some powerheads like the one in the picture, you may need to put a sponge on the intake to prevent the suction from pulling the fish into it. It sounds like your fish should be big enough to not have to worry, but something to keep an eye on for a couple days to make sure. Better safe then sorry

Hope this helps and good luck!

Norman24

Thanks that is exactly the anser i wanted!!

outlaw

NP and glad to help!

Also, if it has the aeration hose on it like the picture, you just want to make sure the end of the hose is above the water so it can pull air in. It is not necessary to use but will assist in co2/o2 exchange at the water surface