It was only a matter of time until the realm of digital innovation reached the depths of reef tanks. From dynamic automatic water changing systems to visually stunning frag racks, our beloved hobby is finally embracing the power of high-tech capabilities.
Of course, not every “incredible” innovation is, well, incredible. In my experience, most products touting their advanced network of digital power are nothing more than a combination of old tech with fancy terminology.
My suspicion of “advancements” in reef tank systems dates back years. Outside of a few performance enhancements, I always felt baseline systems worked just fine. Why spend an extra hundred dollars for a device, such as a water flow pump, when even the most basic design does the trick?
Author:
As a lifelong aquarist, Yuliya has an endless curiosity about our underwater universe. After graduating with a bachelor’s in Environmental Engineering, she transformed her passion into a successful career. While working at the Institute of Environmental Protection in Moscow, her passion for saltwater and reef aquariums only increased. Moving to the United States in 2013, Yuliya embarked on another impactful journey by sharing her unprecedented experience for all aquarium hobbyists ... Read More.
For years, I was the biggest critic of the “latest and greatest” reef tank improvements. To the extent that most of my colleagues knew to avoid talking about their newest purchase unless it actually solved a serious problem. Needless to say, when I first received the newest Aqamai KPS Wavemaker Pump by HYDOR Group, I felt the familiar sensation of a dramatic eye-roll.
Sure, it was aesthetically pleasing and would fit great in nano reef tanks, but is its performance any different from the countless other budget-friendly pumps?
It’s with my trademark sense of skepticism I gave in and installed the Aqamai in our Innovative Marine NUVO Fusion 20 tank. So, what’s the verdict? Essentially, it outperforms any other pump in its class. Our tank is thriving, and while there’s many elements responsible for this, the gentle water movement and precise pulsation settings play a direct role.
Before diving into the specifics, let me explain as clearly as I can: my assumptions about this powerful device were wrong!
After exploring the various functions and features of the Aqamai KPS Wavemaker Pump, I was blown away. While other manufacturers try to marry technology and functionality, none accomplish it to such a degree as the engineers at HYDOR Group.
Without further ado, let’s take a dip into why the Aqamai KPS Pump is perhaps the greatest budget-friendly nano wavemaker on the market. Seriously, this small device is about to change the way you interact with your tank.
The Evolution of Tank Control - Aqamai KPS Pump.
Before exploring its rather impressive features, let’s take a brief look into the history of its manufacturer.
HYDOR Group dates back more than 30 years. Since 1984, they’ve introduced some of the most celebrated aquarium products available on the consumer market. From filters, heaters and pumps, HYDOR Group consistently develops innovative solutions. What I personally appreciate about this company is its dedication to evolving the marine aquarist market with solid products without exorbitant prices.
Okay, now that we’ve covered the manufacturer, let’s delve into why the Aqamai KPS Pump is perhaps the greatest (and coolest) small pump ever created.
The Ease of Powerful Performance - Aqamai KPS Pump Functionality.
Measuring 63 mm long and 48 mm tall, the Aqamai KPS Pump is officially the smallest pump within its flow category. But, don’t let its compact size fool you. Powered by a 4-10 watt motor, this deceptively powerful pump features an impressive 1050 GPH (1400 - 1450 liter-per-hour ) flow range. Combined with its variable pulsation rate, the result is a gentle and lifelike water movement.
When used in our nano reef tank, it provided exceptional evenly distributed flow with a very wide flow dispersion so it is not only a forceful, direct flow coming from the end of the pump, but as well from the sides of the cover.
In fact, its performance was exceedingly better than much larger, and more expensive, pumps. While I was impressed with this finding, I was concerned about the amount of energy this surprisingly powerful device consumes.
Much like any other concern I had, the Aqamai KPS Pump defied my preconceived notions. On average, the pump used 415 Lt/h per watt, which is makes it one of the most efficient pumps in its flow class.
My initial thought regarding this pump is since it’s so compact, and delivers such impressive power, it would be a quite the noisemaker. Yet again, I was wrong. Even when operating at maximum output, there was no vibrations or noise. Essentially, the only way I knew it was turned on was the water movement.
Part of its quiet operation is due to its solid construction and mounting support system. Unlike comparable reef tank pumps, which feature magnetic supports, the Aqamai KPS separates itself from the rest with its adjustable dual magnet supports. This patented technology not only ensures it won’t move during operation, but it also delivers unparalleled vibration absorption and it’s so easy to change the direction of the pump. When running a nano tank, this feature is paramount.
The Next-Generation of Tank Control - Aqamai Control Features.
I saved the coolest feature for last, and believe me, it’s unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. The marriage of high-quality functionality and cutting-edge digital technology isn’t always as promising as you hope. However, the Aqamai KPS Pump control features is perhaps the greatest example of precision and high-tech capabilities.
Have you ever been wrapped in your favorite blanket, or engulfed with work at the office, and wish there was a way to remotely activate and manipulate your reef tank pump? Well, now you can. Aqamai KPS Wavemaker Pump is coined as the Internet of Tanks.
I know, this may sound silly, but it’s surprisingly accurate. Rather than manually adjusting flow rate with knobs and dials, operational features are accessed via a user-friendly mobile app. Harnessing the power of mobile technology, everything from flow rate to pulsation frequency is programmed using your smartphone. But sure with a physical "feed mode" button accessible on the controller at anytime as well.
Few tank systems offer such precise customization options. You can choose between a multitude of presets, or create your own function.
The coolest part? Settings automatically shift based on the time of day you designate.
As a cloud-based SaaS platform, you have complete control and access regardless of where you are. While you may think this function is a surface-level attempt to attract tech savvy aquarists, you’re only partially correct. Sure, it’s a fun and interesting way to communicate with your tank, but strip away the newness of it all, and you’re left with one of the most streamlined nano water flow pump systems on the market.
Aqamai KPS Wavemaker Pump - Final Thoughts.
Aqamai is Hawaiian for smart, cool, intelligent. At first, I assumed its name was just a fun marketing gimmick. However, after experiencing the ease of operation, simplistic installation and ease of programming even the smallest setting, I couldn’t imagine a more accurate name.
If you’re searching for a powerful flow pump capable of transforming the vitality of your nano reef tank or you are looking for a small powerful pump to cover a dead spot in your tank, you should absolutely give the Aqamai KPS Pump a chance.
While we’re using it in our nano tank, with stellar results, it’s capable of working in a variety of tank setups.
The Aqamai KPS Pump is worth every dollar, and as one of the lowest priced WiFi-enabled flow pumps on the market, that’s saying a lot.
What’s your experience with the Aqamai KPS Pump? Are you interested, but aren’t quite sure if it’s right for your tank? As always, we’re here to help you in any way we can!
by Yuliya for ReefHacks.