Dodged a Bullet- Koralia Started Running Backwards

[Squishie89]

So I was just finishing feeding the tank, pumps start back up, and I see the left koralia PH running backwards. Turned off pumps, restarted, running fine. I spend a lot of time not in front of my tank or near by. So having equipment working properly is key. I always knew this might happen, just hoped it wouldn't and really hoped it wouldn't do it after a power outage.
So I would like new powerheads. I am not a big fan of the MP's due to the price and also the extreme possibility of critters getting in the PH and being killed or getting stuck and would rather not use covers if I can help it (I have had numerous types of snails and hermits go on the koralias and not be injured). What would you suggest for new powerheads? I have a 90g tank with LPS and softies, will not being doing SPS in this tank.

 

[Marc Weaver]

I have never owned Vortechs, but Tunze pumps are great, but expensive.  The WP-25 or WP-40 's seem to be at a great price point and I have generally seen favorable reviews.  They have not been out very long yet, so no one knows about long-term reliability.  I have had 4 Tunze 6105's for 2 years now and all 4 are still running strong with no problems yet.

 

I used to have Koralia pumps and every now and then they would start up backwards for me too.

[flooddc]

Koralias are notoriously known for running backward problem after turn off or power outage. I used jebao wp-40 for awhile now with no issue. Replaced my old pump with another wp40.

[Squishie89]

Someone on another forum says it has to due with the rubber bumper in the front cover, and found both of mine had some calcium residue, so I cleaned them off. Thanks for the suggestions so far!

[zygote2k]

I have an MP60 in a large tank that is the favorite resting place of a Longnose Hawkfish. He hasn't been chopped up.

Most fish stay away from strong suction and current.

[Coral Hind]

I had a MJ1200 with the prop mod that ran backwards and ended up almost crashing my tank. It stirred up the sand bed and chopped up a bubble tip anemone.

 

I prefer the Tunze Streams because of the ball design that lets you aim them. The Votech just blows straight out. I also think the Votechs hummed loadly compared to my Tunze. You could probably use the 6045 for a 90g tank.

[trockafella]

I've used vortechs for about 3-4 years now and never lost anything bc of it. I see snails on it all the time. They are somewhat pricey but in my opinion you will not find a better pump or customer service.

[kjamaya]

I've had this same issue happen and believe to of found a solution. I clean my PH's once or twice a month depending on how much calcium build up I see with vinegar and water.

Since doing this I haven't a problem with it.... It may work for you as well no harm in trying.

Good luck! 

Edited September 25, 2013 by kjamaya

[ErikS]

I had a MJ1200 with the prop mod that ran backwards and ended up almost crashing my tank. It stirred up the sand bed and chopped up a bubble tip anemone.

 

I prefer the Tunze Streams because of the ball design that lets you aim them. The Votech just blows straight out. I also think the Votechs hummed loadly compared to my Tunze. You could probably use the 6045 for a 90g tank.

Ugh, don't even get me started on the hackzi-jets, what rubbish.

 

Never owned the Vortechs but I've had Tunzes for years. Had both the new model (6105's) and the old ones.................one failed, once, just under two years. So close to the end of warranty point I had to 2nd day ship it back. Roger fixed it up & I was back in business -> under a week. Yep, they ain't cheap but often in this hobby you get what you pay for.

[bulldogtaxi]

My Koralia's would randomly start backwards too.  

[.OptimusPrime.]

Both my 750s start backwards randomly. I have to take the cover off and stop the prop with my finger a few times to get them to spin in the right direction. It gets annoying. 

[wildcrazyjoker81]

I have three Koralia's and surprisingly the older model with out the bump stop starts up correct everytime, but the newer ones are a nightmare. I personally plan on getting the WP25/40 as I have read nothing but positive reviews. Also on the plus side they are rather cheap and you keep a spare for cheaper than buying a Tunze or MP.