why do we need powered ocillating returns?

[teeljay]

With all the concern over the sea swirl returns I was wondering why there has to be a motor to power the rotating nozzle. There is a lot of water coming thru the return, why not use some hydro power to make it ocillate? Has this already been done? I am sure I am not the first to question this, but I found no other references in a search of the archives. Has anyone seen one for sale? Wish I knew enough about DIY'ing to build my own, but time and equipment are not available. I tax my DIY'ing abilities to make the Durso standpipes! lol

 

[Anonymous]

All you have to do is look at a lawn sprinkler. Same principle.

 

[Anonymous]

The other brand of oscillating return (duhhh...I ferget) is non-powered, I believe. I hear it requires a fair amount of the water pressure, but never tried it myself.

 

[O P Ing]

hi.
The brand name is called "Ocean Current," and many vendors carry it. If I remember correctly, there are review on it either in AAOM or AF...

 

[Joey French]

I wish that the review link were posted as I am looking into using one for my nano, and am concerned that it will require more pressure than I would be able to put thru it, having a small powerhead in my eco 40 as the return pump. Anyone have a link to this review, or personal experience with this product? (not to steal the thread...) Joey

 

[kipreefer]

I have seen them but you need a large pump to get enough current out of them. I just think they take up to much water flow i say just go with a sea swirl they are a little more expensive but you dotn lose as much head pressure.

 

[Bill2]

i say just go with a sea swirl they are a little more expensive but you dotn lose as much head pressure.

I agree. I have 4 sea swirls on my tank and the only head pressure you have with them directly is rerated to plumbing. 0 head pressure is needed to rotate the swirl

 

[O P Ing]

hi.
Can't seem to find the review... but you can do a search with the keyword "ocean currents" on this forum (or google), and you will see many opinions about the product.