I Tested And Reviewed 10 Best Wave Maker For Reef Tank (2023)

I am thoroughly impressed with the Jerepet Eco Sine Wave Maker (SWMP). From the moment I received the product, I was captivated by its sleek packaging and compact design. The performance of this wave maker is outstanding, and I found the controller to be incredibly user-friendly with its simple directions and ease of use.

I initially purchased the Jerepet SWMP for my low-budget 40-gallon breeder reef tank, along with hygger's marine light and Seachem's Tidal HOB filters. I must say, I couldn't be happier with the results so far. In fact, I was so pleased with its performance that I ended up purchasing a second Jerepet SWMP with a flow rate of 2100 gph.

What sets Jerepet apart is their long-term commitment to delivering quality products. I appreciate that they have included a pump guard and a well-made, straightforward controller. The pump itself has a remarkably slim profile, and the magnets are incredibly strong. The multiple settings, including feed mode and speed light sensor night mode, offer flexibility and convenience. Additionally, the pumps operate quietly, allowing for a peaceful aquarium experience.

Another noteworthy feature is the master-slave mode, which allows for synchronization between two or more pumps. Furthermore, the absence of a drive inside the pump ensures a longer lifespan. I must also mention that these pumps are remarkably affordable, making them a fantastic investment.

While I am thoroughly satisfied with the Jerepet SWMP, it is worth noting that it may be too strong for smaller tanks such as a bio cube. However, for larger tanks like my 40-gallon breeder reef tank, it provides an ideal amount of water movement.

In comparison to the hygger mini wave maker, which I had been using for six months prior, the Jerepet SWMP surpasses it in terms of water flow. The interface buttons of the Jerepet SWMP may be slightly difficult to push, but that is a minor concern when considering its overall performance. Unlike the hygger wave maker, there is no need for extensive programming or spending hours trying to understand different modes.

The wavemaker being reviewed is described as fantastic and powerful, but possibly too powerful for the user's needs. It is noted that the wavemaker works well and is recommended for larger tanks. The noise level is mentioned as quiet and not distracting.

The reviewer also mentions that the wavemaker has a guard to protect fish, but the slots are wide enough for anemones to potentially get sucked in, so caution is advised. It is also mentioned that the controller is easy to use, although it is recommended to keep the manual nearby until becoming familiar with it.

The reviewer states that the wavemaker was installed as an upgrade for better circulation and it immediately fulfilled their expectations. The wavemaker is described as powerful and dependable, making it worth the investment.

In terms of pros, the reviewer highlights the wavemaker's ability to move a lot of water and create adjustable currents through the controller. The construction and finish of the wavemaker are praised for their high quality, indicating that the manufacturer has put effort into producing a reliable product.

The Hygger Mini Wave Maker is an easy-to-install wave pump that effectively mimics ocean waves in both fresh water and salt water aquariums. It offers a range of features including five time periods, four power levels, four flow modes, and eight frequency levels. Despite its compact size, this wave maker works exceptionally well and can be conveniently placed out of sight.

I was particularly impressed with the performance of the Hygger Mini Wave Maker in my 60-gallon garage aquarium. Even without the ability to point upwards like other wave makers, I could still observe the movement of the surface water. The installation process was a breeze, thanks to the magnet connection. In fact, I plan to order more of these wave makers for my other tanks. The quality of this product is also commendable.

It's important to note that the Hygger Mini Wave Maker offers great value for its price. While it may lack some advanced features found in more expensive wave pumps, such as WiFi and app control, it still functions effectively as a propeller to move water within the fish tank. The level of quality and features may vary among different price points, but ultimately, all wave pumps serve the same purpose.

In my personal experience, I use this wave pump to add movement to my 20-gallon long tank, where I keep three filter-feeding shrimp. These shrimp rely on tiny particles in the water, and the Hygger Mini Wave Maker ensures that the food powder remains in circulation. However, it would be beneficial if Hygger offered a smaller pump for tanks of even smaller sizes.

Adjusting the power levels, wave modes, and frequencies may take a bit of getting used to, as the display panel consists of four digits. The first digit represents the time of day, and you can program the power level for each time interval. The power levels range from 40% at level 1 (which could be reduced to 20% for smaller tanks) to 100% as you increase the number. The third digit indicates the wave mode, while the last digit determines the frequency of the waves. Lower numbers result in quicker wave pulses, while higher numbers produce gentler water movement.

If you have smaller fish in your tank, it is advisable to use a screen to prevent them from being drawn into the pump. A simple solution is to repurpose a garlic net from the produce section of your grocery store. Cut a 2" piece, wash it thoroughly to remove any traces of garlic, and slip it over the pump head. This will effectively prevent smaller fish from getting caught in the pump's powerful suction.

This product is an excellent addition to any aquarium setup. It is strong, silent, and provides great circulation for the water. The double head fan creates a gentle airflow that the fish love, and they will even swim in front of it to "ride the wave."

One of the benefits of this fan is that it helps keep the water cleaner for longer periods of time. By placing the fan on the opposite side of the filter, debris is blown right into the intake tube, preventing it from settling on the sand at the bottom of the tank. This makes it easy to clean up the accumulated gunk with a syphon in one corner.

Setting up this device is a breeze, and the magnetic piece on the outside ensures that it stays securely in place on the glass. Unlike other fans with suction cups that may randomly fall off or slide down, this one stays put. The only minor drawback is the cord that connects the two heads, which some users may find visually unappealing. However, the benefits it provides outweigh this small inconvenience.

It is important to note that the fan operates silently, and the lack of visible waves does not indicate a lack of circulation. Simply placing your hand in front of the fan will reveal the gentle movement of the water. This is a valuable lesson for those new to aquarium fans, as they may mistakenly think that the fan is not working properly.

The magnet used to hold the fan in place is extremely strong, providing peace of mind that it won't detach unexpectedly. The fans themselves work well, although it is worth mentioning that angling them up or down can only be done simultaneously from the base. However, they can be adjusted to be more vertical, horizontal, or at a diagonal angle.

The Hyggar fan is perfect for a 40-gallon tank, providing just the right amount of agitation without overpowering the water flow. Unlike other fans that may be too strong, this fan allows fish to swim against the current or through it, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentle circulation. The Hyggar brand has consistently delivered reliable products, and this fan is no exception.

One of the great features of this fan is its ability to create surface agitation, effectively pulling more oxygen into the water. Additionally, it helps evenly circulate heated water throughout the aquarium, ensuring a consistent temperature. Fish that enjoy swimming in currents will love this fan, as it creates a gentle and enjoyable flow. It also aids in moving detritus around the tank, allowing it to find its way into the filter intake.

Another notable aspect of this fan is its quiet operation. It can be positioned anywhere in the tank at any angle, without causing any disturbance. The only minor downside is the lack of an on/off switch, which means it needs to be manually unplugged during feeding time to prevent food from blowing all over the tank. However, this inconvenience is easily manageable.

The reviewer also mentioned using this fan in a 20-gallon grow-out/hospital tank for African Cichlids. The addition of the fan opposite the filter has made a noticeable difference, providing both water movement and oxygenation. The fish enjoy swimming into the stream created by the fan, and it also serves as a form of exercise for them. The fan's magnet makes it easy to install and allows for customizable positioning.

Lastly, the reviewer expresses satisfaction with the quality and price of the fan. It provides plenty of flow and operates quietly, allowing the fish to enjoy the currents it generates. The reviewer even plans to purchase more for their larger saltwater tank, further highlighting their contentment with the product.

I recently purchased this powerhead for my 45-gallon tall saltwater aquarium (FOWLR), and I must say, I'm quite pleased with its performance. My main intention was to increase the flow in my tank, and this powerhead does the job admirably. I have it positioned to blow across the top of the tank, creating a powerful current that quickly diffuses without disturbing the substrate. It functions similarly to its more expensive name brand counterparts, but at a lower price point, making it a solid value for money.

One aspect worth noting is the attachment mechanism. The powerhead is secured using a single large, powerful suction cup. While this design works well initially, it's important to remember that all suction cups eventually fail. This could happen within a year or even after 10 years. Although a magnet attachment would have been sturdier, it would have also increased the cost. Given the decision to prioritize affordability, I won't deduct a star for this, but it's something to be aware of when considering this product.

The powerhead arrived in a well-marked cardboard box and was in perfect condition. It's impressively quiet and compact considering its power. Despite its small size, it moves a significant amount of water. Additionally, it comes with a suction cup for easy attachment.

Using this powerhead is a breeze. Simply attach it to your glass and turn it on. Initially, it may create a bit of a tornado effect, stirring up food and debris particles. However, within a few minutes, it effectively clears up the tank, leaving it clean and debris-free. Furthermore, it operates quietly, ensuring a peaceful aquarium environment.

Personally, I needed a wave maker to mix my saltwater, and this powerhead proved to be the perfect choice. The strong suction cup, equipped with a convenient release button, securely holds it in place. I am thoroughly satisfied with its performance.

The Wavemaker is an excellent investment for the price. It effectively increases circulation throughout the tank, providing a more optimal environment for aquatic life. Upgrading to the 3400gph model from smaller pumps has proven to be a remarkable improvement. The only drawback observed is the wide gaps in the propeller casing, which may pose a risk for fish being sucked into the pump. While some users suggest using pantyhose as a protective measure, it may not be aesthetically pleasing. However, the issue can be easily resolved by using smaller zip ties to secure the casing. Overall, this Wavemaker is highly recommended, receiving a perfect rating of 10/10.

This pump offers great value for the price, outperforming more expensive alternatives. Its plug-and-play feature makes it incredibly easy to use, with impressive performance and useful features. For a 65-gallon reef tank, the pump generates satisfying waves and operates well with the light sensor setting. The only complaint is that it may be too powerful for some users. Nevertheless, it is highly recommended for larger aquariums, specifically those with a capacity of 65 gallons or more.

Considered the best wave maker on the market, this product shines in a 300-gallon freshwater tank. The previous use of the Marineland Maxi Jet 1200 was powerful but lacked a controller. The adjustable power and patterns, feeding mode, and light sensor of this wave maker make it ideal for delicate fish. The convenience of the magnet is particularly advantageous in deep tanks, allowing easy placement and movement. While the feeding mode and light sensor have not been tested yet, they are expected to perform well. Overall, this wave maker is a reliable and versatile option.

Initially purchased for a 30-gallon quarantine tank, this unit exceeded expectations in terms of power. The cautionary note is that the magnet is very strong and may cause damage if not properly placed on the glass. Upon activation, the wave generated was so forceful that it propelled water across and over the top of the tank, displacing the fish. Given its strength, this wave generator is more suitable for larger aquariums, preferably those with a capacity of 50 gallons or more. As a result, it will be kept for a 74-gallon tank, while a less powerful option will be sought for the 30-gallon tank. For those with larger tanks, this power head comes highly recommended.

After using various brands and sizes of pumps for over 40 years, including high-end ones, I can confidently say that this pump is the best I have ever used. It is incredibly silent, to the point where you might question if the aquarium is even on. I have a sump gravity drain and pump back setup, and previously had to use a valve to control the flow back into the tank. With this pump, I can easily adjust the flow rate via the control panel, eliminating the need for additional valves. I wholeheartedly recommend this pump for its remarkable performance.

I do regret not discovering this pump earlier, as it works exceptionally well. I made the mistake of purchasing a used Apex core 20 from eBay and ended up being scammed out of $220. However, this pump has proven to be reliable and efficient.

I have a 90-gallon reef tank, and this pump works wonders. In fact, I had to lower it to the minimum setting due to the significant flow it produces. So far, I am extremely satisfied with its performance.

Installation of this pump was a breeze, and adjusting the flow rate is effortless. It offers several pulse variations that create excellent water movement, as well as a convenient feed mode. The power it provides is more than sufficient for my 55-gallon reef setup. If this pump can maintain its performance for several years, it will definitely be a worthwhile investment.

After extensive research and trying out multiple wave makers, I finally found the perfect one for my 75-gallon tank. Most of the previous wave makers I purchased were either too weak or too strong for my tank. However, this wave maker has exceeded my expectations. It is strong enough to effectively move debris on the sand without disturbing it. I am highly satisfied with its performance so far and will provide an update on its long-term performance in three months.

Initially, I had some reservations about purchasing this wave maker due to certain comments. However, I am pleased to say that this wave maker is incredibly powerful. It is currently being used in my 75-gallon aquarium, and I am thoroughly impressed with its performance. It is worth noting that this wave maker may be too strong for smaller aquariums. Overall, it is an awesome powerhead that gets the job done effectively.

While the pump itself is strong and effective, the adhesive pad that comes with the controller falls short in terms of holding it to a panel. This is a minor drawback, but it is worth mentioning. Despite this issue, the overall product is great and delivers excellent water movement.

In terms of functionality, this wave maker has greatly improved the water movement in my 30-gallon tank. I am very happy with the results so far and would highly recommend it.

As a newcomer to the world of fish tanks, I was initially unsure about how to properly care for my African Cichlids and other fish. I made some rookie mistakes, such as overfeeding my fish without realizing the consequences. The debris from overfeeding ended up festering in the substrate, leaving my tank looking like someone had poured a shot glass of milk into it.

After conducting extensive research on Google, watching YouTube videos, and browsing forums, I came across the recommendation to use a wave generator to generate movement in the water. Skeptical but willing to try anything, I purchased one for my tank.

Setting up the wave generator, I carefully arranged the water flow to travel along the skulls in my tank. I plugged it in and felt a moment of regret as bits and pieces of food were kicked up from the substrate, further clouding the water. To my surprise, the wave generator remained silent while my air pump seemed louder, possibly due to the increased effort required to push bubbles through the murky water.

Feeling disheartened, I decided to take a break and stepped away from the tank. When I returned, I was amazed to find that the water had cleared significantly. Not only that, but my fish seemed to be enjoying the movement created by the wave generator. They were playfully swimming in the current, almost as if they were dancing.

This positive experience prompted me to consider purchasing a second wave generator for my tank. If one wave generator could make such a difference, I thought, surely having two would further enhance the clarity of the water and provide even more enjoyment for my fish.