How do you clean your canister filter? Is this the best way? Comment your experiences below and dont forget to Subscribe 😀 th-cam.com/channels/iEPmLfXBGeiHiCn4HVtS5w.html
Its my first time that I have cleaned the filter. All steps ok but the last, which you did not cover. Please help. After putting together all the media and sponges, I have filled the canister with the tap water adding the chrmicals to remove chlorine and bacteria enhancer. After switching on the whole aquarium is dusty immediately. Please help what should i have done? And also the last step in your video is missing how did you refill the canister after cleaning everything. Thank you
B/c of Kev, I've been using Polyfil in my 407 / 75 gal and my water clarity remains impeccable...dude, as I said before, your content is gold. Thanks again!
This was one of the best descriptions of water flow and how to set up and clean a fluval 407 performance filter. Straight forward, clear directions, actually showing your steps. So appreciated your post. It would be great to have a connected video on turning off and disconnecting the canister before you clean it, and reconnecting it to your tank once you are ready to reconnect (for the new and unconfident canister filter owners).
Thank you Im glad you enjoyed the video. I've gotten that same suggestion before and I've added it to my list of future videos. Keep an eye out for it 😊
@@KaveManAquatics great video i just got a 407 did you ever make a connected video on turning off and disconnecting the canister before you clean it, and reconnecting it to your tank once you are ready to reconnect?
Searching and searching HOW to and WHERE to add a polishing filter to my 407-canister filter. Finally someone with a great how to video and a bonus tip about Poly-fil. Thank you
First, after all the videos I've watched, it's been the most helpful...I see how much I need to change..but first is your concept the same with freshwater vs salt water? So many more questions ..I definitely need to change my manufactured filter.
Kev saved me !!! In the old days my fish were dying and there was not AT ALL balance . Now I got mechanical (sponge and polyfil ) , and biological (Sera siporax mini) filtration . I also got anubias for my 60 litres aquarium and 2 of them animals that suck that algae and now all of the parameters are normal . No more ammonia spikes , no more algae , light to see the beautiful fish and of course I got the crystal clear water like you ;) Thanks a lot Kev 🙏. You are a MVP . Greetings from Greece 🔥🔥 . Happy new year all ,take take and if you are reading this wish you the best!!
Just bought this 407 filter and your video is truly helpful for newbie like me in cleaning the cannister and filter media! Very detailed and clear explanation and appreciate the effort taken to guide us to the end. Definitely clicking subscribe and hope to see more videos from you. Cheers!
Frederick awesome! Thanks for subscribing! Glad I could be helpful to you, I have another great video on media placement in the 407 as well, check it out th-cam.com/video/NHigz6EMR08/w-d-xo.html
I just bought this today and am cycling my 75 gallon. I’m just a little nervous about the tube coming off and flooding my home. I did push the tubes in very tight and checked every few hours for leaks and nothing so far. This is my first canister filter so just a little paranoid. I find this video very useful for when I do my first cleaning. Thanks!
jack dale Glad you found the video helpful! Don’t worry, as long as the aqua stop valve is “clicked” into the canister they won’t come out. Congrats and good luck! 👍
I clean everything in the reverse order you do. I want the water to be as clean a possible for the biomedia, so I clean it first. Then I clean the medium sponge in the bottom tray, and then the course sponges. I always replace the polishing pads. They're pretty saturated with detritus when I do my maintenance every two months.
@@KaveManAquatics you should clean the biomedia first...with the cleanest water. I take water out of my tank, and 3/4 fill 3, 5 gallon buckets. First bucket gets "the first dunk" of the media. The second bucket is a "secondary dunk"...and the 3rd is a "hold the media while I clean the foams" bucket. You know you've cleaned your media well when you stick all your media in the 3rd bucket...and it's still crystal clear clean. I straight up hose off my foams in the sink...as I don't need my foam for biological....I have enough biohome ultimate for that.
Where do you think it goes for everyone who uses a python gravel vac? It goes straight into the sink lol. This is why we have soap and bleach. You can easily clean the sink when you are done.
The only difference I do is that I rinse the impeller first, then I dunk my filter media baskets second, as they have less dirt in them, so the water is cleaner when I'm cleaning them, and then I squeeze out the sponges last, as they make the water the most dirty. It's easier to see what I'm doing in the bucket, and I don't feel like I getting sponge dirt in my filter media, lol. I also use a clear plastic bucket, instead of a black one, so it's easier to see things in the bucket when I'm looking for something small, etc, and when I am doing water changes, I can check for any idiot endlers that swam up the tube into the bucket, lol. Really good video though 😁👍
I needed this video!!! I recently "inherited" a 125g African cichlid tank from my uncle who could no longer care for it. I didn't realize the process for preserving the bacteria and how important it is! Big thanks for helping a newbie like me lol.
Glad I could help! I have a great playlist for beginners I think you'll find very helpful as well. Check it out - th-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er.html
I think one thing I’d add, and I’m not sure if this is obvious, but it’s important to cut off the aqua stop valve then kill the power, and doing the reverse when starting back up. I had been draining the tubes every cleaning before I realized it wasn’t necessary to have to go through the awful priming process every time. It also helps me a lot to brim the canister with water before snapping the motor back on to seamlessly restart the flow.
@@KaveManAquatics I really appreciate this video. Having used the 407 for a year now, I can see that your process is solid. I typically add RO water to my canister before sealing it back up and connecting the hoses. Is adding the new RO water ok or would it be better to remove some tank water and use that to top off the canister? Thanks, @bradsmithstudios8881, for an excellent suggestion regarding how to shut down and remove the hoses. I'll try that next cleaning.
I just bought a 207 and installed it today. The setup is a little bit different, cuz it's smaller than the 407. Thanks for showing me how I'm gonna be able to clean it when I need to. I have two 20 gallon tanks. So this is connected to one of them. You have so much great content for me to be watching and learning so much!!!!
You just taught me something about Polyfil and I have a bunch of it laying around for my arts and crafts that I do. I could use this for my filter. I’m currently using the Fluval Aquaclear 70 on my turtle tank and wanted to upgrade to the 307 canister filter and was looking at unboxing, set up, and cleaning videos for it. Thanks for sharing this tip man!
Kev, thank you for this easy to follow instructional on the 407. I have the same filter canister. I'm still a novice but got great results from your videos. Thank you.
Thank you!!! I have been looking for a video on how to do maintenance on this filter. I bought this one recently when my Aqueon cannister broke. I appreciate it 🙌
No problem, glad you found the video helpful! 😊 I have another video on this filter about proper media placement...check it out th-cam.com/video/NHigz6EMR08/w-d-xo.html
Bro you made me buy a 207 I’ve had trouble with the nitrite cycling since having it in for a week already it’s nearly at 0 ! So happy it’s cycling properly and the water is crystal clear
Thank you for the great step by step to clean these filters. I just got a 207 and am about to do my first maintenance on it. Me finding your video is perfect timing and very helpful!
Great video, very well explained, thank you. I just got my first 307 for my three 12 years old goldfish tank, I think they are happy better filtration !!
I've just figured out that you are doing this backwards. With your clean canister water clean your media in this order: 1. Chemical filters bags & floss 2. Biomedia 3. Finest Mechanical filters to corsest. This way you go from least dirty/smallest particles to most dirty/largest particles. Thanks for the video, it helped me figure this out.
Yea you can wash the media first, then the sponges...not a big deal. The point I was trying to make is the importance of cleaning and rinsing in tank water
Excellent and very important information. I like this method!!! I've a fluval two-ou-seven, is more Smaller than the show us; but I'll clean it using your recommendations. Thanks you guy, for give us your experience!!! Salute you from Motorcycleland 🏍🏍🏍 in Álvaro Obregón. Ciudad de México. México. 🐟🐠🐟🐠🐟🐠 P.D. Never I've used the purigen, but I´ll do in the next maintenence. 👌
Thanks for your many videos that have helped me out, when I have questions! My experience cleaning my Fluval 206. I have a 65 gal. tank and use my filter for basically polishing my water in my aquarium. All baskets but one, contain charcoal. When I clean the one piece of foam in the first basket, which filters out particles in the water, I just rinse it with tap water, ringing it out and getting rid of as much as the tap water as possible. Since there is practically no chlorine contamination, and the ratio of chlorine on my sponge to the volume of water in my tank is practically nil, it doesn't affect my fish. Since I'm usually doing a water change when cleaning my filter, the dechlorinator also takes care of what little chlorine which might leak into my tank. My biological filtration occurs in my tank on my porous rocks and sponge filters, so I don't have to worry about killing off beneficial bacteria in my filter media when I clean it. Thanks again!
Great video, as usual someone does it slightly different. I decant 2 buckets of tank water to use for dropping sponges and media into. Reason being, when I remove the filter head, then the filters/media, leaving the water in the filter bucket because usually there are young bristle nose catfish in the bottom. These I can then retrieve, grow on a bit and send to shopkeeper in exchange for fish food.
I don’t use a bucket, the canister filter tub/bucket is sufficient and just need something like a towel or cloth to sit the baskets on top when removed, then clean sponges in the filter bucket and discard when finished 👍🏼 (I’ve done on both 206 & 407)
1. How often do you do this? Weekly, bi-weekly? 2. Should I wash down with a rag? 3. What was in the bag? 4. If I needed to replace any sponges, should I wash them in the bucket to get any bacteria? 5. Opinion on “bio-balls”? Ps. Love the channel.
Thank You for this video, a fantastic aid for someone like me, using a canister filter for the first time. I have a 35 gallon tank with the smaller 207 filter with only 3 trays and only one packet of media for each. It’s good to know I can mix media in each tray and use something different to what came with it.
This is wonderful!! I have been using my nails and a lot to cuss words getting the top off. Now to go see if I can get it off by pushing the handles down. I'm going to have to read the instructions too - I don't remember that trick being laid out in the book. Thank you !!!
I just wanted to drop you a comment to let you know that I have been researching canisters for weeks now, and because of all your great info I pulled the trigger on the 407 today. Picked up my bag of poly. Also purchased the Fluval Inline UV light. IDK if it is overkill or not, but didn't think it would hurt. Also picked up the Fluval AquaSky LED light to top it all off. Fluval should be paying you commission! Thanks again for all your expertise!
had a 55 Gal tank some years ago with an internal tank filter, had African Ciclids and they bred in the tank so they were happy, going to get a new 55 Gal tank end of June for my birthday got a Fluval 407 ordered for the tank and this video was great as I've never used a canaster type filter before.
Hi kaveman Thank you so much for this video.i watched and followed every instruction. Working well.not leaking .but I have a buyi canister with a uv light.
Awesome video!! Just got a 407 and am going to install it on my tank that has 2 over 50gallon fluval hang on the side of the tank style. I plan to install the 407 with the 50s going still to not lose good bacteria, how long do you think until i can remove the 50s and run tje 407 itself? Any tips to speed the process maybe put tank water in the 407 first? Tanks so much 😊
Hey Kev after looking at the way your rinsing the compartments in the same water, wouldn't it be better for the beneficial bacteria to be placed back in other bucket with the first half of the water that came out from the filter as to keep the bacteria from drying up while rinsing in the second bucket, I have the same filter and I was making the mistake of rinsing the bacteria out from the containers by using tap water in which I'm glad my Oscar was able to deal with the water changes all this time, I'm glad I ran into your video, now I got a good idea on how to keep my bacteria healthy, Thanks Kev
Excellent video, well detailed right to the point. I do have a question that I am not sure if you can answer. I have thr smaller 307 it's got one less try does this mean I am not able to use poly fill?
Appreciate the time and effort u put into these videos. I definately plan on purchasing this filter now that cleaning seems to be fairly easy. How often do you do water changes with a siphon?
Hi! New to canister filters got the 407 set up my trays just like this. My only question is and point me to a video if you've done one on it but how often do I clean the filter? Love your videos to the point which is hard to find!
Thanks for the useful info! I'm new to canister filters (bought one yesterday) and plan to hook it all up today. Oh and that bath towel you used, I had those exact ones growing up 😂 I think they're JCPenney towels circa late 1997ish
No problem, Glad you enjoyed it! This video on setting up your canister may help too th-cam.com/video/NHigz6EMR08/w-d-xo.html and I think you're right about the towel LOL
Thanks! Really depends on a lot of variables like how heavily stocked is your tank, how much do you feed, how high do your nitrates get between water changes. But a general time frame to clean canister filters is about every 3 months give or take. This 407 is running on a 60 gallon and that’s pretty much the limit. Any bigger of a tank will require more filtration.
Thank you for the video! I just got that same filter for a 65 gallon aquarium that is home to a diamondback terrapin and a hieroglyphic river cooter. This filter should work good while they're young, but eventually I will go with a sump with the same media.
Hello from San Diego...New to the channel, new to the hobby. Thank you for taking the time to post these videos...I find them really useful. I purchased a Fluval 307 and it only has 3 chambers. I know the bottom chamber will have the Bio-Foam+ and the Quick Clear pad. In the middle chamber I was going to add the ploy-fix. The top chamber will house the Seachem Matrix Bio Media with a bag of carbon. I would like to know your thoughts on this setup...any changes I should make? Thank you...
Hey great video really glad I saw this before I dumped all my bio under a tap, just curious I have a 307 but my top tray has no bio media in only the one under and has 2 bags of carbon I notice you use purigen and only a bag would u recommend copying your layout as using 2 bags of carbon from fluval every month is pricey and only get 3x 100g bags in a pack appreciate any help
In my experience I’ve found that the polishing pads at the bottom tray and the top have significantly better results in clearer looking water; however, if you’re like me, I use the space in the top for extra media like nitrite control pad, ammonia both versions, peat and another like peat bag to help reduce ph over time. I’ve been able to reduce water changes by doing this media setup as well as bi-weekly canister rinsing/cleaning. My tank has never looked more clean, clear and my fish are extremely stress free and always seem very relaxed and enjoying their time. I don’t use added chemicals unless it’s putting water back in however I’ve switched to ro under my sinks and we have water softener installed. So pretty much just add water every day or two days about 1 liter for 55g tank to maintain accurate water levels.
Huge fan of the channel Kev!!! Keep the info coming!!! Once everything is cleaned do you use that same water that you cleaned everything with to fill back up the canister?
Thanks bro, glad you're enjoying the channel. No, you dump that water, its nasty after you're done cleaning. Dose some prime into the empty canister then fill about half way with tap water, then drop your trays in, then hook back up to tank. That way the tap water wont kill your BB in your trays. Great question!
This is absolutely the best out there. I do have one question tho. With the 307 and only three media canisters, which would you suggest skipping or combining? Wrapping the purigen bag with polyfil will provide some, but is that enough?
Thank you! 😁 With only 3 trays I suggest black sponge on bottom, poly fil in middle, bio media on top. The purigen isn’t necessary. But if you really wanted to add some, leave some space in that top tray and add the bag there on top.
Because of your videos, I recently upgraded to a 407 from a HOB filter and love it. How often would you recommend doing a cleaning like this? Also, with the purigen bag, do you need to rinse that with tap water or anything before putting it in?
Hi Kave, love all your videos! Super helpful for me! Would Fluval 307 be enough for a 20 Gallons tank with overstocked Goldfishes? Currently using a Fluval 107 but kinda feel its aint sufficient. Would even Fluval 407 overkill? Its a 2 feet tank! Thanks a mil!
I got the fluval 407 filter. My top two trays have bags in them, I believe carbon filter bags, and the top tray has thin sponge things. What do you recommend I put in the top two ? Ammonia remover sponge? Could you list the 4 tiers and what you use in each? Thanks for the awesome videos
Thank you! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁💪 BTW, you should check out my new Aquarium Keeping APP designed for beginners! - th-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8MyRXOeOqhwzruSWFdhcaNh.html
So im hooking up my canister filter tonight, im currently running 2 corner sponges in a planted tank, should i leave one running till my boi filter builds up in my canister? Or will i be good adding some stability or quick start? I have all real rocks and wood, and eco complete for substrate.
Hi these videos are really helping me set up my first fluval filter. 1 question I have is the water you tip out of the filter and then use to clean how do you replace this water so your water level doesn't keep depleting every time you clean. Hope you can help. And thanks again.
@@KaveManAquatics appreciate the response. I'm slowly getting through all of your videos. Hope to be a pro and have as clear water and nice setup as you some day.
I learnt a lot from this. I have only just realised my filter media are in the wrong order for starters 😳 and that I haven't been cleaning well enough either. I've been too scared for way too long that I can't go cleaning some of my made too much.. ie. I don't clean my sponges too thoroughly as I assumed they held all the beneficial stuff too. So they only ever got a light clean. And if I watched this correctly I'm right to assume only the ceramic ring and bio stuff holds the beneficial bacteria? I've even been too afraid to throw out all the gross gunk in the bottom of the canister cos I thought it was needed 🤦♂️ thanks for this
Bacteria is everywhere in your tank and filter. But most of it is in your bio-media. Its safe to thoroughly clean your sponges and throw out that old water, but your bio-media just needs a quick dunk in the old water and thats it, just like in the video. And you'll be good to go
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How do you clean your canister filter? Is this the best way? Comment your experiences below and dont forget to Subscribe 😀 th-cam.com/channels/iEPmLfXBGeiHiCn4HVtS5w.html
Its my first time that I have cleaned the filter. All steps ok but the last, which you did not cover. Please help. After putting together all the media and sponges, I have filled the canister with the tap water adding the chrmicals to remove chlorine and bacteria enhancer. After switching on the whole aquarium is dusty immediately. Please help what should i have done? And also the last step in your video is missing how did you refill the canister after cleaning everything. Thank you
Yo quick question kev you used to work at a long island rail road site called Arch st for Bombardier working on the electrical ?
@@oliecito2612 yup, did we work together?
@@KaveManAquatics yeah we did Dominick was the supervisor at the time and lamell was his right hand man...
@@oliecito2612 Yea I remember, that was 05-07 💪
B/c of Kev, I've been using Polyfil in my 407 / 75 gal and my water clarity remains impeccable...dude, as I said before, your content is gold. Thanks again!
Awesome bro, Glad I could help! 😊
Would be setup for saltwater can we use all same methods
@@KaveManAquatics how often do you replace the polyfil?
Ben, I have a 75 also. I just ordered the pads. How often do you change the pads?
This was one of the best descriptions of water flow and how to set up and clean a fluval 407 performance filter. Straight forward, clear directions, actually showing your steps. So appreciated your post. It would be great to have a connected video on turning off and disconnecting the canister before you clean it, and reconnecting it to your tank once you are ready to reconnect (for the new and unconfident canister filter owners).
Thank you Im glad you enjoyed the video. I've gotten that same suggestion before and I've added it to my list of future videos. Keep an eye out for it 😊
@@KaveManAquatics great video i just got a 407 did you ever make a connected video on turning off and disconnecting the canister before you clean it, and reconnecting it to your tank once you are ready to reconnect?
Searching and searching HOW to and WHERE to add a polishing filter to my 407-canister filter. Finally someone with a great how to video and a bonus tip about Poly-fil. Thank you
My pleasure, glad I could help! 😁
Kev, thank you for offering a no non-sense venue that is really helpful, entertaining, educational.
My pleasure! Glad you and so many others are finding the channel helpful! 😊💪
First, after all the videos I've watched, it's been the most helpful...I see how much I need to change..but first is your concept the same with freshwater vs salt water? So many more questions ..I definitely need to change my manufactured filter.
@@timmybrady5125 unfortunately I don’t have much experience with salt water, but I’m currently learning as much as I can.
Kev saved me !!! In the old days my fish were dying and there was not AT ALL balance . Now I got mechanical (sponge and polyfil ) , and biological (Sera siporax mini) filtration . I also got anubias for my 60 litres aquarium and 2 of them animals that suck that algae and now all of the parameters are normal . No more ammonia spikes , no more algae , light to see the beautiful fish and of course I got the crystal clear water like you ;) Thanks a lot Kev 🙏. You are a MVP . Greetings from Greece 🔥🔥 . Happy new year all ,take take and if you are reading this wish you the best!!
Thats awesome! Love to hear these success stories, glad I could help you achieve those goals! 😁💪 And thanks for watching from Greece!
New to Fluval filters and your channel. I appreciate the quality vids you're putting out for us. Thanks man🤜🤛
My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful. 😊
BTW, you should check out my new Aquarium Keeping APP designed for beginners! - aquabuildr.com
Just bought this 407 filter and your video is truly helpful for newbie like me in cleaning the cannister and filter media! Very detailed and clear explanation and appreciate the effort taken to guide us to the end. Definitely clicking subscribe and hope to see more videos from you. Cheers!
Frederick awesome! Thanks for subscribing! Glad I could be helpful to you, I have another great video on media placement in the 407 as well, check it out th-cam.com/video/NHigz6EMR08/w-d-xo.html
I just bought this today and am cycling my 75 gallon. I’m just a little nervous about the tube coming off and flooding my home. I did push the tubes in very tight and checked every few hours for leaks and nothing so far. This is my first canister filter so just a little paranoid. I find this video very useful for when I do my first cleaning. Thanks!
jack dale Glad you found the video helpful! Don’t worry, as long as the aqua stop valve is “clicked” into the canister they won’t come out. Congrats and good luck! 👍
You've got my "like" and "comment" in 15 years of watching TH-cam video's!!!! Perfectly structured and information video; very well done! Thank you.
Thank you for that great feedback! Glad you’re enjoy the channel! 😊
I clean everything in the reverse order you do. I want the water to be as clean a possible for the biomedia, so I clean it first. Then I clean the medium sponge in the bottom tray, and then the course sponges. I always replace the polishing pads. They're pretty saturated with detritus when I do my maintenance every two months.
George Moorachian That is a great way also. Either way will get the job done. 👍
@@KaveManAquatics you should clean the biomedia first...with the cleanest water. I take water out of my tank, and 3/4 fill 3, 5 gallon buckets. First bucket gets "the first dunk" of the media. The second bucket is a "secondary dunk"...and the 3rd is a "hold the media while I clean the foams" bucket. You know you've cleaned your media well when you stick all your media in the 3rd bucket...and it's still crystal clear clean. I straight up hose off my foams in the sink...as I don't need my foam for biological....I have enough biohome ultimate for that.
@@Sahadi420 you put fish poop in your sink?
Where do you think it goes for everyone who uses a python gravel vac? It goes straight into the sink lol. This is why we have soap and bleach. You can easily clean the sink when you are done.
Thank you. I love your videos. They are always straight to the point, no stupid gimmicks, very informational and helpful
Aliholic Thanks, Glad you’re enjoying the videos! 😊
Great video 💯 the first minute watching you empty the canister I realised I was doing it all wrong
Glad it helped bro!
The only difference I do is that I rinse the impeller first, then I dunk my filter media baskets second, as they have less dirt in them, so the water is cleaner when I'm cleaning them, and then I squeeze out the sponges last, as they make the water the most dirty. It's easier to see what I'm doing in the bucket, and I don't feel like I getting sponge dirt in my filter media, lol. I also use a clear plastic bucket, instead of a black one, so it's easier to see things in the bucket when I'm looking for something small, etc, and when I am doing water changes, I can check for any idiot endlers that swam up the tube into the bucket, lol. Really good video though 😁👍
Don’t you use a course sponge on the end of your intake tube.. far better, and small fish etc don’t get sucked up.
I needed this video!!! I recently "inherited" a 125g African cichlid tank from my uncle who could no longer care for it. I didn't realize the process for preserving the bacteria and how important it is! Big thanks for helping a newbie like me lol.
Glad I could help! I have a great playlist for beginners I think you'll find very helpful as well. Check it out - th-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er.html
@@KaveManAquatics awesome man, much appreciated!
Thank you my husband and I've been looking for a good video on how to take care of our filter system we greatly appreciate it...
My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁
Wow a video that answers your question without 20 minutes of filler
🤣🤣 Thats my goal with every video on this channel 😊💪
I think one thing I’d add, and I’m not sure if this is obvious, but it’s important to cut off the aqua stop valve then kill the power, and doing the reverse when starting back up. I had been draining the tubes every cleaning before I realized it wasn’t necessary to have to go through the awful priming process every time. It also helps me a lot to brim the canister with water before snapping the motor back on to seamlessly restart the flow.
Yes, great advice right here, thank you!
@@KaveManAquatics I really appreciate this video. Having used the 407 for a year now, I can see that your process is solid. I typically add RO water to my canister before sealing it back up and connecting the hoses. Is adding the new RO water ok or would it be better to remove some tank water and use that to top off the canister? Thanks, @bradsmithstudios8881, for an excellent suggestion regarding how to shut down and remove the hoses. I'll try that next cleaning.
I just bought a 207 and installed it today. The setup is a little bit different, cuz it's smaller than the 407. Thanks for showing me how I'm gonna be able to clean it when I need to. I have two 20 gallon tanks. So this is connected to one of them. You have so much great content for me to be watching and learning so much!!!!
You just taught me something about Polyfil and I have a bunch of it laying around for my arts and crafts that I do. I could use this for my filter. I’m currently using the Fluval Aquaclear 70 on my turtle tank and wanted to upgrade to the 307 canister filter and was looking at unboxing, set up, and cleaning videos for it. Thanks for sharing this tip man!
Kev, Your videos rock and have been very helpful to me setting up my Cichlid tank. Thank you so much for doing it right. Keep it up brother!
Thanks bro! Glad you’re finding the channel helpful!! 😊
I get more response than any of the hi subscribed fish keepers and you explain it better,my go to for when I need hepl🇨🇦
Thanks bro! Glad you’re finding the channel helpful 😊💪
Kev, thank you for this easy to follow instructional on the 407. I have the same filter canister. I'm still a novice but got great results from your videos. Thank you.
Glad I could help 😊💪
This video was the most helpful
Keep making videos for the channel even though you don’t have manny subscribers
I.A LAPORTA Glad I could help! Just started channel 3 months ago so I have a lot more videos to make 😊 Thanks!
He will.
Thank you!!! I have been looking for a video on how to do maintenance on this filter. I bought this one recently when my Aqueon cannister broke. I appreciate it 🙌
No problem, glad you found the video helpful! 😊 I have another video on this filter about proper media placement...check it out th-cam.com/video/NHigz6EMR08/w-d-xo.html
Awesome video man I’m doing my first filter cleaning tomorrow (same filter as in this video) and this video was just heaven sent! 🙌
This was great. Love the step by step - and the background music isn't so loud as to drown you out.
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it 😁💪
Bro you made me buy a 207 I’ve had trouble with the nitrite cycling since having it in for a week already it’s nearly at 0 ! So happy it’s cycling properly and the water is crystal clear
Thank you for the great step by step to clean these filters. I just got a 207 and am about to do my first maintenance on it. Me finding your video is perfect timing and very helpful!
My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁
Great video, very well explained, thank you. I just got my first 307 for my three 12 years old goldfish tank, I think they are happy better filtration !!
I've just figured out that you are doing this backwards. With your clean canister water clean your media in this order:
1. Chemical filters bags & floss
2. Biomedia
3. Finest Mechanical filters to corsest.
This way you go from least dirty/smallest particles to most dirty/largest particles. Thanks for the video, it helped me figure this out.
Yea you can wash the media first, then the sponges...not a big deal. The point I was trying to make is the importance of cleaning and rinsing in tank water
I like how you are smart about getting a bucket to keep the bacteria. What are the rocks you have?
Excellent and very important information. I like this method!!! I've a fluval two-ou-seven, is more Smaller than the show us; but I'll clean it using your recommendations. Thanks you guy, for give us your experience!!! Salute you from Motorcycleland 🏍🏍🏍 in Álvaro Obregón. Ciudad de México. México. 🐟🐠🐟🐠🐟🐠 P.D. Never I've used the purigen, but I´ll do in the next maintenence. 👌
Glad you found it helpful! 😁💪
Thanks for your many videos that have helped me out, when I have questions! My experience cleaning my Fluval 206. I have a 65 gal. tank and use my filter for basically polishing my water in my aquarium. All baskets but one, contain charcoal. When I clean the one piece of foam in the first basket, which filters out particles in the water, I just rinse it with tap water, ringing it out and getting rid of as much as the tap water as possible. Since there is practically no chlorine contamination, and the ratio of chlorine on my sponge to the volume of water in my tank is practically nil, it doesn't affect my fish. Since I'm usually doing a water change when cleaning my filter, the dechlorinator also takes care of what little chlorine which might leak into my tank. My biological filtration occurs in my tank on my porous rocks and sponge filters, so I don't have to worry about killing off beneficial bacteria in my filter media when I clean it. Thanks again!
I just cleaned my 107 for the first time, your video made it a quick and easy task. Thanks Kev!
Glad I could help! 😊
Great video, as usual someone does it slightly different. I decant 2 buckets of tank water to use for dropping sponges and media into. Reason being, when I remove the filter head, then the filters/media, leaving the water in the filter bucket because usually there are young bristle nose catfish in the bottom. These I can then retrieve, grow on a bit and send to shopkeeper in exchange for fish food.
Just cleaned my 06 cannister you made it alot easier , thanks
Glad I could help! 😁
I don’t use a bucket, the canister filter tub/bucket is sufficient and just need something like a towel or cloth to sit the baskets on top when removed, then clean sponges in the filter bucket and discard when finished 👍🏼 (I’ve done on both 206 & 407)
1. How often do you do this? Weekly, bi-weekly?
2. Should I wash down with a rag?
3. What was in the bag?
4. If I needed to replace any sponges, should I wash them in the bucket to get any bacteria?
5. Opinion on “bio-balls”?
Ps. Love the channel.
Thank You for this video, a fantastic aid for someone like me, using a canister filter for the first time. I have a 35 gallon tank with the smaller 207 filter with only 3 trays and only one packet of media for each. It’s good to know I can mix media in each tray and use something different to what came with it.
My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁
Great info and quality video. Well done man 👏🏼
Thank you bro! Trying to improve with every vid.
I got it. Thanks much. Never have had these high tech cannister filter.
Great video. Don't forget to remove the rubber ring on the head. Clean and lubricate it and reinstall it.
This is wonderful!! I have been using my nails and a lot to cuss words getting the top off. Now to go see if I can get it off by pushing the handles down. I'm going to have to read the instructions too - I don't remember that trick being laid out in the book. Thank you !!!
My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁
Thanks for your thorough video, it helps me everytime I need to clean my turtles and helps me remember to keep the good bacteria.
Happy to help!
I bought this filter last month and your videos are so helpful! Thanks!
My pleasure! Glad you’re finding them helpful 😊
Stepping up my game plan now, getting a 207! Thanks for your videos KaveMan!
Mark H Awesome! Glad I inspired you lol
You don't play bro, you clean your equipment like me. Good ish, and thanks for the info, keep up the good work.
Lol glad you enjoyed it. 😊
Kev-I really enjoy the way you explain your video, so thank you!
Happy to hear that! Glad I could help! 😊
Ty I had no idea what I was doing this saved me some money. Didn't know what to replace lol
Lol, glad I could help!
I just wanted to drop you a comment to let you know that I have been researching canisters for weeks now, and because of all your great info I pulled the trigger on the 407 today. Picked up my bag of poly. Also purchased the Fluval Inline UV light. IDK if it is overkill or not, but didn't think it would hurt. Also picked up the Fluval AquaSky LED light to top it all off. Fluval should be paying you commission! Thanks again for all your expertise!
lol I wish bro, glad I was able to help! 😊
Thinking of getting a 107 for my 20 gallon this helps a lot thank you
I really like your videos and the way you keep things simple and clear. Very good job brother.
Thanks bro, glad you’re enjoying them. 💪
had a 55 Gal tank some years ago with an internal tank filter, had African Ciclids and they bred in the tank so they were happy, going to get a new 55 Gal tank end of June for my birthday got a Fluval 407 ordered for the tank and this video was great as I've never used a canaster type filter before.
Well happy birthday bro! Glad you found your way back to the hobby!
Thank you so much for doing this video! I have to clean mine and I had no idea how. I really appreciate this 😊
My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁
I cant get over these knowledge bombs. Keepem coming my G! 🔥🔥🔥
My pleasure bro! Will do! 😁💪
Hi kaveman
Thank you so much for this video.i watched and followed every instruction. Working well.not leaking .but I have a buyi canister with a uv light.
My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁
I also clean out the impeller chamber. Good vid!🐠🖖
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it! 😊💪
Hi Kev. Realy good video.
How often shuld I clean my canister filter?
How can I know that its’ time to do it?
Awesome video!! Just got a 407 and am going to install it on my tank that has 2 over 50gallon fluval hang on the side of the tank style. I plan to install the 407 with the 50s going still to not lose good bacteria, how long do you think until i can remove the 50s and run tje 407 itself? Any tips to speed the process maybe put tank water in the 407 first? Tanks so much 😊
excellent snappy highly informative vids for sure the best of the best on youtube. You are also highly cool ! Regards from wet & windy Scotland.
Thanks bro, glad you're enjoying the channel! And thanks for watching from Scotland! thats awesome
I bought a 407 for my 55 gallon and dang that thing is clean
Hey Kev after looking at the way your rinsing the compartments in the same water, wouldn't it be better for the beneficial bacteria to be placed back in other bucket with the first half of the water that came out from the filter as to keep the bacteria from drying up while rinsing in the second bucket, I have the same filter and I was making the mistake of rinsing the bacteria out from the containers by using tap water in which I'm glad my Oscar was able to deal with the water changes all this time, I'm glad I ran into your video, now I got a good idea on how to keep my bacteria healthy, Thanks Kev
I’ve been doing this wrong for years. Great vid. Thanks
Tyrannosaurus-lex Glad I could help! 👍
Thanks so much for uploading this! This actually really helped me ☺️
Hayley Cokayne Glad I could help! 😊
Great explanation buddy, you’ve given me confidence to use my new filter 👏🏼👍🏽
My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁
I love Fluval filter as they have nice design for the media trays and super easy to clean :) time to clean my 307 model 😎 and thanks for the tips!
My pleasure! 😁
Excellent video, well detailed right to the point.
I do have a question that I am not sure if you can answer.
I have thr smaller 307 it's got one less try does this mean I am not able to use poly fill?
You still can. You'll just have 1 less tray with bio-media. Or you could try the bottom half of tray with poly-fil and the top half with bio-media.
Appreciate the time and effort u put into these videos. I definately plan on purchasing this filter now that cleaning seems to be fairly easy. How often do you do water changes with a siphon?
Thanks man I appreciate that appreciation!! 😊😊 They definitely do take work! I water change every week and siphon my sand every other week 👍
@@KaveManAquatics Right on! What water heater do you recommend for a 55 gallon?
Great watching this i personally use clean dechlorinated water for the foams but on the nose
Yea that works well too! Glad you enjoyed the video 😊
Great video. You are very thorough at explaining. Thank you.
Aub_K Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it 😊
Thanks for all the helpful content! If I have well water it shouldn't harm beneficial bacteria to rinse in sink, correct?
If you can confirm theres no chlorine in it, yes, you should be good to go 👍
Hi! New to canister filters got the 407 set up my trays just like this. My only question is and point me to a video if you've done one on it but how often do I clean the filter?
Love your videos to the point which is hard to find!
I got you right here - th-cam.com/video/Mz6CL14xGu0/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for the info. I never would have thought of using the same water. Somehow I think I could buy a decent pump and make my own cannisters .
Glad to help
Thanks for the useful info! I'm new to canister filters (bought one yesterday) and plan to hook it all up today.
Oh and that bath towel you used, I had those exact ones growing up 😂 I think they're JCPenney towels circa late 1997ish
No problem, Glad you enjoyed it! This video on setting up your canister may help too th-cam.com/video/NHigz6EMR08/w-d-xo.html
and I think you're right about the towel LOL
How often do you clean out your canister and what size tank are you running it in great video by the way!
Thanks! Really depends on a lot of variables like how heavily stocked is your tank, how much do you feed, how high do your nitrates get between water changes. But a general time frame to clean canister filters is about every 3 months give or take. This 407 is running on a 60 gallon and that’s pretty much the limit. Any bigger of a tank will require more filtration.
Thank you for the video! I just got that same filter for a 65 gallon aquarium that is home to a diamondback terrapin and a hieroglyphic river cooter. This filter should work good while they're young, but eventually I will go with a sump with the same media.
GRude420 that sounds like the right plan 👍Thanks for watching!
Thank you! I’m new to a canister filter and this really helped.
Glad I could help 😊
In another video u stack the polly fill at the top. Does this matter ? Amazing videos mate thankyou 🎉
I found it works well both ways 😁
Your videos are AMAZING! Thank you for all you do.
Thanks, Glad you like them!
Hello from San Diego...New to the channel, new to the hobby. Thank you for taking the time to post these videos...I find them really useful. I purchased a Fluval 307 and it only has 3 chambers. I know the bottom chamber will have the Bio-Foam+ and the Quick Clear pad. In the middle chamber I was going to add the ploy-fix. The top chamber will house the Seachem Matrix Bio Media with a bag of carbon. I would like to know your thoughts on this setup...any changes I should make?
Thank you...
Welcome to the hobby! Glad you’re finding the videos helpful. Yes, you’ve got the set up correct! 👍
Awesome demonstration, how often should, you replace the blue and black eggshell crates filter pads ?
You dont ever have to replace them, clean and squeeze them out into a bucket of tank water and re-use 😁
@@KaveManAquatics Thank You I love my Fluval 307 filter I wish it have a handle on it !!!
Thank you for all the great information and for posting. Do you ever use carbon in this process?
My pleasure. I used to use carbon but have now switched to Seachem Purigen 😊
@@KaveManAquatics thak you for writing back. I am using both. shall i use just one or the other?
Hey great video really glad I saw this before I dumped all my bio under a tap, just curious I have a 307 but my top tray has no bio media in only the one under and has 2 bags of carbon I notice you use purigen and only a bag would u recommend copying your layout as using 2 bags of carbon from fluval every month is pricey and only get 3x 100g bags in a pack appreciate any help
In my experience I’ve found that the polishing pads at the bottom tray and the top have significantly better results in clearer looking water; however, if you’re like me, I use the space in the top for extra media like nitrite control pad, ammonia both versions, peat and another like peat bag to help reduce ph over time. I’ve been able to reduce water changes by doing this media setup as well as bi-weekly canister rinsing/cleaning. My tank has never looked more clean, clear and my fish are extremely stress free and always seem very relaxed and enjoying their time. I don’t use added chemicals unless it’s putting water back in however I’ve switched to ro under my sinks and we have water softener installed. So pretty much just add water every day or two days about 1 liter for 55g tank to maintain accurate water levels.
Huge fan of the channel Kev!!! Keep the info coming!!! Once everything is cleaned do you use that same water that you cleaned everything with to fill back up the canister?
Thanks bro, glad you're enjoying the channel. No, you dump that water, its nasty after you're done cleaning. Dose some prime into the empty canister then fill about half way with tap water, then drop your trays in, then hook back up to tank. That way the tap water wont kill your BB in your trays. Great question!
Just what I came here to ask thanks
After cleaning should I fill the canister filter with water before connecting. Please show the whole process.
Yes, you should always fill a canister with water about half way before connecting...great question.
This is absolutely the best out there. I do have one question tho. With the 307 and only three media canisters, which would you suggest skipping or combining? Wrapping the purigen bag with polyfil will provide some, but is that enough?
Thank you! 😁 With only 3 trays I suggest black sponge on bottom, poly fil in middle, bio media on top. The purigen isn’t necessary. But if you really wanted to add some, leave some space in that top tray and add the bag there on top.
Love your videoed. I have a question do you know anything about marine land canister filters and how I can modify it like the Fluval?
#Replay crew, putting in the work, not being lazy. Let’s goo. Lj 23/dec/23.💪
OMG, thank you. I did not know you could push down on the handles to open.
Many dont realize it, I was scratching my head first time too 😊 Glad it was helpful!
Great video, very detailed. Do people use these for saltwater tanks?
Thanks! Im sure some do, but most saltwater tanks have bigger canisters or sumps.
Because of your videos, I recently upgraded to a 407 from a HOB filter and love it. How often would you recommend doing a cleaning like this? Also, with the purigen bag, do you need to rinse that with tap water or anything before putting it in?
Rinse anything always, and Clean every 4-8weeks. The Green filter was said on manual to replace every 4 weeks
Hi Kave, love all your videos! Super helpful for me! Would Fluval 307 be enough for a 20 Gallons tank with overstocked Goldfishes? Currently using a Fluval 107 but kinda feel its aint sufficient. Would even Fluval 407 overkill? Its a 2 feet tank!
Thanks a mil!
Great video brother, if I change my fluval with all the setup liked you have. Will it be ok for fish? Thanks brother
Thanks! Yes they will but dont change it all in one shot or you could crash your cycle. Change out your media in portions over time.
Thanks for quick response brother 👍
I got the fluval 407 filter. My top two trays have bags in them, I believe carbon filter bags, and the top tray has thin sponge things. What do you recommend I put in the top two ? Ammonia remover sponge? Could you list the 4 tiers and what you use in each? Thanks for the awesome videos
Here’s the video that will help for sure - th-cam.com/video/NHigz6EMR08/w-d-xo.html
Very nicely done!
Thank you! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁💪
BTW, you should check out my new Aquarium Keeping APP designed for beginners! - th-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8MyRXOeOqhwzruSWFdhcaNh.html
So im hooking up my canister filter tonight, im currently running 2 corner sponges in a planted tank, should i leave one running till my boi filter builds up in my canister? Or will i be good adding some stability or quick start? I have all real rocks and wood, and eco complete for substrate.
Hi these videos are really helping me set up my first fluval filter. 1 question I have is the water you tip out of the filter and then use to clean how do you replace this water so your water level doesn't keep depleting every time you clean. Hope you can help. And thanks again.
Replace the water directly in the tank. Just make sure to always use dechlorinator every time you add tap water to the tank 😊
@@KaveManAquatics appreciate the response. I'm slowly getting through all of your videos. Hope to be a pro and have as clear water and nice setup as you some day.
I learnt a lot from this. I have only just realised my filter media are in the wrong order for starters 😳 and that I haven't been cleaning well enough either. I've been too scared for way too long that I can't go cleaning some of my made too much.. ie. I don't clean my sponges too thoroughly as I assumed they held all the beneficial stuff too. So they only ever got a light clean. And if I watched this correctly I'm right to assume only the ceramic ring and bio stuff holds the beneficial bacteria? I've even been too afraid to throw out all the gross gunk in the bottom of the canister cos I thought it was needed 🤦♂️ thanks for this
Bacteria is everywhere in your tank and filter. But most of it is in your bio-media. Its safe to thoroughly clean your sponges and throw out that old water, but your bio-media just needs a quick dunk in the old water and thats it, just like in the video. And you'll be good to go