Flow in a 125g-questions/problems

I have a few questions regarding flow in my tank.

I have a 6’ 125g tank with a Little Giant little giant 4-MDQX-SC which can run up to 1325. Right now I have it dialed back to maybe 50%-75% running capacity. I have one return line pushing water from my left overflow (only left side overflow, not dual) directly across to the right side of the tank. It seems to move water back to the left side as well but definitely slows down. I just recently put a maxijet 600 right under the return that pushes water to the left side of the tank, but its not too strong and very ugly with the cord flopping out of the tank.

My question(s) are below.

1. 1. I seriously doubt that I currently have enough flow. I can see a few sand particles building up on some of my corals which is a clear indication. Also, my low flow areas have a small brown/diatom algae issue but we’re not here talking about algae, just confirming that I have flow issues.
2. 2. My tank is acrylic and it has two lids. If I put anything inside the tank that has cords I will either have to drill the top of the tank for a way to get the cord out or have it coming out of the top lid, both very unsightly. I think the wireless circulation pumps are way out of my budget at 400 each.
3. 3. If I were to just split up my return into maybe 3 directions (keep one going to right side of tank, one to middle front glass and a third to the left side of the tank)and turn it up from 50-70% to maybe even 100%, would that suffice for flow?
4. 4 If option 3 does not work and I need to get additional circulation pumps, what are the recommended ones? I have heard a plethora of names/model numbers thrown around.
5. 5. Are there specific directions I should have the water being pushed to create a nice flow in a 125g 6’ long tank?

 

I would look into a vortech or even better two. No cords , or dead spots.
A little pricey but worth it IMO.

 

cheapest i could find them are around 400, unless im searching for the wrong items. a new set of LED's are first on the list before spending 400-800 on circulation pumps. but yes, they are very nice!

 

yea 400+ each is just a bit high for me right now, and i assume i would need two of them also so, 800 is a tad bit out of my budget currently.

but i do appreciate the suggestion and link, that would be on my dream/wish list for sure

 

Have you looked at koralias? A lot of people use them , just play around with their direction until you are happy with the flow, it's not an exact science.

 

I even use Maxijets with the power fan attahcment- they move alot of water, inexpesive too. Is the back of your tank painted? That way it hides the cords running down, etc.
My back wall is so covered in coralline now, you hardly see the paint.