what determines the gph rating of a powerhead?

prestage3ek · 01/17/2009, 10:32 PM

Is it the number of blades on the impeller or the size of the impeller? I was thinking of a way to cut the flow down on one of my powerheads and was thinking about cutting one of the blades from the impeller, but I didnt know if thats what makes the flow what it is, or if its the size. Thanks in advance.

J.R.L. · 01/17/2009, 11:18 PM

it has to do with the magnet that drives the impellers mostly, and also cutting off a blade will throw off the impeller significantly causing noise...unless its a 4 blade and you cut of 2, in that case you might be ok...also depending on what type of powerhead it is you can usually adjust the flow by restricting the input of water

01/17/2009, 10:32 PM	#1
prestage3ek Registered Member Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: God's waiting room, FL Posts: 232	what determines the gph rating of a powerhead? Is it the number of blades on the impeller or the size of the impeller? I was thinking of a way to cut the flow down on one of my powerheads and was thinking about cutting one of the blades from the impeller, but I didnt know if thats what makes the flow what it is, or if its the size. Thanks in advance. __________________ livin in Florida...........missin California. At least I still get to see the sunsets. Current Tank Info: 29 gallon with fish and corals, and a clam. 12 gallon Aquapod with a pair of True Perc's and a Frogspawn

01/17/2009, 11:18 PM	#2
J.R.L. Moved On Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Tiger Stadium Baton Rouge, Louisiana Posts: 529	it has to do with the magnet that drives the impellers mostly, and also cutting off a blade will throw off the impeller significantly causing noise...unless its a 4 blade and you cut of 2, in that case you might be ok...also depending on what type of powerhead it is you can usually adjust the flow by restricting the input of water