Filter intake maintenance during water changes

[CrazedMichael]

Members,

I need some sharp thinking from you. I planted a whole bunch of plants about 2 months ago. Stems, bulb, rooted, moss... you name it. Naturally they have shedded some leaves, especially the cabomba and moss and now the intakes of my 2 canister filters are covered with it all.

Last month when i did a water change i turned off the filters etc as i normally do and the stuff went everywhere so i spent a long time carefully vacuuming it all up. The week after that i left the filters on and tried to vac the intakes directly but that doesnt work cos the suction of the filters were too strong. So it was back to last week's method. And has been since.

Anyone have any advice on how to get the mulm or leaves off the intakes without creating a mess? I've tried using a plastic cup by holding it under the intake prior to turning them off, but the mulm just floats away.


P.S. The plants are all fine and growing well, but still shed leaves now and then.

[talldutchie]

Put your net around it and then removete intake strainer .

[ameliaaahx]

Yup, dutchie said it.

[CrazedMichael]

Put your net around it and then removete intake strainer .

Hmm thats a great idea. I'll have to try that. Although i might need to get a smaller net as i only have a large one.

How about when you trim Moss? How do you avoid creating a moss shower? I cant take it out as it is rooted to the driftwood.

[Cermet]

Simple - as you trim the plant, have your siphon right there removing the debris.

[talldutchie]

When I trim moss I take the bit I want to remove in one hand and the scissors in the other hand. If you want to manicure it then a siphon next to it is the best idea.