
AC powerheads are controlled by an AC-powered motor which is intended for continuous duty.Regardless of design, all wavemakers fall into two categories. Gyre-style pumps are even more unique in design and create a completely different flow pattern. External propeller-type pumps that have an open pump cover with an exposed propeller instead of an impeller have proven to be much more effective for creating natural water movement throughout our entire display.

Modern wavemakers have taken on a completely different design than your classic submersible pump and there are new designs popping up all the time. While we are still learning about the incredible importance of water flow, these are the main reasons for providing flow inside an aquarium above and beyond the flow from your filtration. The term "wavemaker" was coined because these submersible powerheads can be controlled to create wave-like water movement and varied currents which is the biggest difference over a typical water pump that is best used to create a constant and concentrated stream of water flow.

Sometimes called a powerhead, a wavemaker is a special type of water pump used to create internal flow inside your display aquarium. When it comes to making the best pump choice for your aquarium, it's important to understand the differences and what features matter most. While each of these flow pumps is equally important, they are very different in design and function. A return pump is used to push water through the filtration system and powerheads or "wavemakers" are used inside the display aquarium to create natural-like currents. In a saltwater aquarium, water flow is achieved two ways.
