Filter Setup

[jacoste]

Just wanted to get some opinions on the best way to set up my filters in terms of media etc.

It's a 42 gallon tank that currently has an AC70 and the internal power filter that came with the tank however I've just ordered an Eheim 2213 (should be here either this week or early next week, yay!) so I'm going to replace the internal filter. It's been bugging me more and more over the last few weeks, it produces one hell of a current even on the lowest flow control setting and while my tetras don't mind it the Gourami I'm eventually getting might, and it blows the plants around alot too.

So how should I set up media in the AC70 and the canister? At the moment the AC has the sponge and the biomax bag it came with, with the rest of the space filled up with filter wool (or floss, whatever you call it). Should I do the same with the canister or should I make one completely biological filtration and the other mechanical? Or some other combination?

Also can I just whack the two sponges from the internal power filter in the canister filter for a month or so instead of running both on the tank to seed the canister?

Sorry for the long rambling post, I'm very happy today :)

[korith]

Also can I just whack the two sponges from the internal power filter in the canister filter for a month or so instead of running both on the tank to seed the canister?


You can just put the old filter media into the new filter for a month or so, then remove them. No need to run both filters unless you want to.

If you have too much current with the filter you are using now, there are a few ways to slow it down, could try filling the media bay with a sponge, that will slow down how quickly the water escapes the filter. You could put a sponge over the intake as well. Another thing you can do is take a plastic bottle (like a 2L pepsi bottle) Then cut the curved part and place it over the outtake for your filter. If that made no sense take a look at this link [Only Registered Users Can See Links.]

[kennedpa]

G'day, not sure why you would want to run two filters once you have your 2213. The 2213 will give you more than adequate filtration and current. I use a diffuser on my 2215 ( 100 ltr tank) and that makes a nice current....the fish aint complaining. if your fish are worried about the current just dont use the ehiem part ( long tube with holes) just let the exit come via the outlet hose...the current should not be overwhelming.