Keeping sand out of powerhead?

[Katy]

The Korelia 2 came today, want to set it up in the new (fishless) tank, but I am worried about sand getting in it. Had planned to screen it to keep fishies out, but see that I need a finer filter to keep out the sand....

[Diana]

I keep my Koralias up high enough that sand is not a problem. Java moss is a problem.

Screening can be done with tule or finer screening. Some fish want to swim 'upstream' so strongly they can get into these from either direction. Another optiion is a VERY coarse sponge, and just a thin layer, wrapped around the intake half. Too thick or too fine and it will slow the flow, especially as it fills with debris.