The Reef Tank Flow Rate Calculator is an invaluable tool for reef tank enthusiasts, aiding in the determination of the water circulation rate needed for optimal tank health. By inputting the tank volume and desired turnover rate, aquarists can calculate the required flow rate (GPH - gallons per hour) necessary to maintain a healthy aquatic environment for their corals and inhabitants.
Formula of Reef Tank Flow Rate Calculator
The calculation for determining the flow rate (GPH) involves a straightforward formula:
Flow Rate (GPH) = Tank Volume (in gallons) x Turnover Rate
Tank Volume: This represents the total water volume within your reef tank. It's calculated by measuring the tank's length, width, and height in inches and converting it to gallons using the conversion factor: 1 gallon = 231 cubic inches.
Turnover Rate: This signifies how many times you desire the entire tank volume to be circulated or "turned over" within an hour. Optimal turnover rates typically range between 10 to 20 times per hour, though this can vary based on specific coral and inhabitant needs.
Table for General Terms
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| GPH | Gallons per hour, representing the flow rate of water through the tank. |
| Tank Volume | The total volume of water held within the aquarium, usually measured in gallons. |
| Turnover Rate | The number of times the tank's water volume circulates in an hour. |
| Conversion Factor | The factor used to convert tank dimensions from inches to gallons. |
| Recommended Rate | The suggested turnover rate for maintaining a healthy reef tank environment. |
Example of Reef Tank Flow Rate Calculator
Let's consider a scenario:
Suppose a reef tank has a volume of 50 gallons and the desired turnover rate is 15 times per hour. Plugging these values into the calculator would yield a required flow rate of 750 GPH (50 gallons * 15 turnovers).
Most Common FAQs
The ideal turnover rate typically ranges between 10 to 20 times per hour, but this can vary based on the specific needs of corals and inhabitants.
Measure the tank's length, width, and height in inches and apply the conversion factor (1 gallon = 231 cubic inches) to determine the tank's volume in gallons.