Powerhead Flow Rate Calculator
Get total system flow for your coral demand, then see how much your powerheads need to add once your return pump's flow is accounted for.
Total system flow range
2,000-3,000 GPH
Return pump already provides
450 GPH
Powerheads need to add
1,550-2,550 GPH
split across 2-4 units for even coverage, not one oversized unit
Why this is a range, not a formula: these turnover multipliers are widely-practiced hobbyist convention from large-sample forum discussion, not a manufacturer or research-body standard. Actual needs depend on tank shape, coral placement, and powerhead overlap. A tall narrow tank and a wide shallow tank at the same gallons rarely feel the same at the same GPH.