return pump question

[Deuce]

So last night came home from work, noticed my return pump had died. Not sure what happened, but it no longer works. Will my tank be alright with the flow of only one powerhead for the time being until I can get another pump?

[dobejazz]

ahh Jay that sucks The power head is better than nothing but I'm not sure.
I would point it to break the surface for air exchange

[Deuce]

The powerhead is in the middle of the tank, going across the front of the glass. Thanks Kelli!

[Fly Guy]

It will be fine.
a couple of things you need to do though.

1. Unless you have tons of surface agitation you need to either put an airstone in the tank or if the powerhead has a venturi...... hook it up. It doesnt have to be full venturi effect...you can pinch off the airline some but you are losing all of the oxygen in the water that the drop to the sump provided, and you need to keep the oxygen level in the water up.

2. Do the same thing to the sump water, unless you plan on dumping it all. It needs circulated and aerated or stagnant water can go bad as all of the bacteria can die and the ph can drop to dangerouos levels.

[Deuce]

So, if I get a pump hooked up tomorrow, it shoudln't be a problem?

And, while everything's turned off, it would be a good idea to empty the sump and refill it?

[coralcat]

I would change the water, over 24 hr sit, you bet, not worth the risk

[Fly Guy]

Might as well get a water change in while youre doing it but like i said, you could safely save the sump water as well.......just circulate and aerate it.

[Deuce]

It'll be a good excuse for me to do a 20gal water change!!