Are powerheads necessary?

[bigbro]

Hi, I have a 180 gallon (72 x 17-24(bowfront) x 28) tank with dual overflows and I feel like my setup does not have enough water circulation. There is a lot of surface agitation at the surface but there doesn't seem to be a lot of water movement at the substrate level since water enters the overflow at the top. Is it better to add a powerhead to direct the oxygen-rich water near the surface towards the bottom so that there is enough oxygenated water at all levels of the tank or is it unnecessary?

 

[Asomeone]

Dont worry if you have plenty of surface agitation the lower levels of water are likely well oxygenated. Not to mention as the water falls through the overflows its further oxygenated. The powerhead could help in stirring up detritus that's collected on the substrate but as far as oxygenation goes...you're likely just fine.

 

[saltwater60]

Not required but if you’re getting detritus settling you might want to do it.