Have you upgraded to an FX6? If so share your experience, what do you think is the best feature of the fx6? Don't forget to subscribe - th-cam.com/users/kavemanaquatics
Just got into the hobby 3 months ago. Already 3 tanks in. Was curious about the FX6, stumbled upon your channel a week ago because of this video. A week later I’m ordering a 180 gallon tank because now I NEED a Cichlid tank. Thank a lot bro! My wife hates you.
*Update* - Since my last comment 3 weeks ago. I used this same setup for my FX6 and used the exact media (purchased through your links) on my 125-gallon and 35-gallon tanks and the water is crystal clear. The best condition my water has ever seen! The fish are extremely healthy and doing perfectly. Thank you for publishing this video and keep up the great work!
Dude I loaded up my two FX6 Filters like you showed in this video and it’s absolutely fantastic on my 150 gallon aquarium. I ordered the media on Amazon and it’s awesome. Thanks so much!
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
This video was awesome!!! Thank you for making it and doing everything step by step. A RES adopted me a few years ago and I’ve been struggling with her tank and the fx4 I got for her. I had no idea how high maintenance an aquatic turtle is! FYI: I did try to rehome her when I first found her. God got jokes. Lol
Totally love the FX 6 line. I run 4 of these on my 600 gallon SA/CA tank(120×48×24) as well as 2 on my 135 gallon African cichlid tank. A a FX4 on my 64 bow front, I even use 2 on my raised Koi pond. For me I found that hard plumbing all my FX6'S was the best way to go. On all my FX6'S the middle and bottom trays are full of Seachem Matrix. I run polishing pads in all my rip trays with purigen right under. With the exception of the 2 in use on my Koi pond, I only perform deep cleaning once a year on my filters each having a differ cycle. My 600 gets 1 FX6 deep cleaned every 3 months. The others just get new polishing pads and Purigen. My 135 gallon every 6 month's 1 gets done. While alternating.
Glad you made it here! 😊💪 This video's a bit dated. you should check out my whole FX6 playlist for more updated videos and tactics 😊 - th-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8N4952LL3ElXj3J9R9iacFv.html
My pleasure! 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
I just started using an FX6 and your video was a lifesaver, do you possibly have any suggestions for cleaning the media in the FX6??? What should I do specifically?
I'm going to set up a 1025 litre / 270 gallon african cichlid tank in the new year and I have been getting alot of useful information from your channel so thank you so much . I'm looking at this filter for my tank but I'm thinking maybe I'll run 2 of them in tandem to turn that huge volume of water over more often ?
I strongly agree with that! Everything explained simply and clearly in just 10 minutes! Fluval should include your video as part of the owners manual with FX6 ;P
In my FX4 I removed the red trays and filled the bottom completely with Biohome SBG and I filled the second with Biohome Ultimate, please keep in mind I also run 2 large sponge filters and Potho plants reside as well, 6 weeks passed with no water change and only adding water when needed. I check water conditions and only needed a 40% water change. This was in my 75 gallon. Please keep in mind I house 6 juvenile Firemouths and 2 juvenile Jack Dempsey. I applied a HOB with additional Biohome and current time is 53 days, my water is crystal and awaiting another test.
Adam Santos Pothos helps a lot in reducing nitrates as well. Your test on the bio-home May not be accurate because there’s no way to tell how much work your pothos is doing...it could be removing the majority of nitrates.
Great Video! I have two HOB aquaclear 110’s for my 75 freshwater tank. New to the hobby and still learning. I have seachem matrix on both for my bio-media. I’m looking into switching to what you have. Will it mess up my water parameters or anything in my tank if I take out what I have and switch it to the bio home ultimate media?
Also I just seen more of your videos about Seachem Stress Guard. I have plecos and Corydoras. Is it safe for me to add stress guard? Please and thank you!
If your tank has been cycled already then don’t take all the media out at once. That may crash your system and cause an ammonia spike. If you want to change media you have to gradually replace it. I’d say replace half the media in 1 HOB and wait about 1-2 weeks. Then replace the other half. Same time frame, then start on the 2nd HOB, again half and half. This will make sure you give your bacteria some time to grow on the new media.
Yes, stress guard is safe for them. I have plecos and a cory cat in my tank too. I have a great playlist for beginners, check it out, might help...th-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er.html
I see you use BIOHOME . The god of filter-media ! How long did it take to fully cycle, for you, to Nitrate (N3) reduction and how much nitrate reduction are you seeing? Great vids btw, you and Mr Ochard have got it covered when it comes to fast and focused tips. regards from Scotland.
I actually failed drastically with bio-home. Did not get any nitrate reduction. But to its defense I did not use the specified amount I was supposed to you, its just a ridiculous amount a 1 tank owner should have to use. I have since removed it all. Heres an update video on the results - th-cam.com/video/NYZzpvKygDc/w-d-xo.html
I found someone on another channel who had a report of BIOHOME stopping working when their tap nitrates went from 20 to 40 " Zorba 1 year ago Ahh mate a bloody good video,,,, im also a water test freak which brought me here ,, thank you ,, i also got my media fromthe Pond Guru but the small bio balls to inside my internal Juwel 3m . with good results , , i was getting 10ppm in Nitrate until last week , up to 40ppm , cause unkown ,,, investigation time .. tested the water coming into the house and it has risen to 40ppm . from 20ppm Affinity water down south ,,,, lol Hope that your keeping well ,, regards that fella from Da South of England .. love your content . shame your not local ," th-cam.com/video/o-X-zsx8LkM/w-d-xo.html
Nitrate reduction does not exist in filtrations. They are the end product of the nitrogen cycle. You can add plants, water changes, or clean debris out of the mechanical filters etc to reduce nitrates
Excellent !!!! Could you please list for me and put of stuff you put in each ring . Just in case I wrote it down wrong . I am getting my fx6 ready to start my 150 gallon tank . You did great helping a beginner .
Kaveman with all due respect. Having a smoke detector beeping in the background really doesn't add positive things to a video. Also that beeping sound is telling you to replace the battery, which can save your life. Hope you got it resolved. If not please do as I mentioned that smoke detector can save you and your family's life. It only needs a 9v battery. Love your video. Minus the beeps :)
Hi KaveMan, great videos! I have a Fluval fx6 also. I watched a video on how to "pimp" your Fluval fx6 about 2 years ago. I have been placing my set up as such, outer circle is the white course sponge. Then I cut medium pond filter sheets to size to fit in behind the course sponge. Then for the middle of the tray I add poly fill, Fluval bio rings and then a black bio sponge at the bottom of the tray. I do not use any chemical media at all. All 3 trays are set up the exact same way in my filter top to bottom. So far so good with no problems for the 2 years, but now I am wondering if I have everything set up right in my filter? Is there such a thing as adding too much filter stuff? My water output flow is just fine but could I really be over working my Fluval fx6?? I know with this hobby you never stop learning and have heard if it works for you then don't change it, but 2 years ago has been a while now. Never hurts to stop and "check in" lol 😊
you say you have the bio sponge at the bottom. that should be on top. the water flow is down the tube up the side's through those sponges then down the middle circles. Have your Mechanical at the top then the bio.
Thanks! 😊 I used about 3lbs, stuffed the whole FX6 and still had some left over. Just keep in mind if you fill it entirely with biohome ultimate like mine it will greatly reduces your flow rate. I have a second canister on my 75 to back up the slow flow of the FX6.
I bought a house recently that came with a large tank (maybe 100gal?) and an FX6; i'm new to large tanks. This video helped me understand this Fluval fx6 system and how to set it up. I have no idea how long it's been operating, do i need to open it up and examine it to maybe replace filters or other components that may be old? Good video! I susbscribed :)
Thanks for subscribing! Yes definitely open it up, clean it out, and inspect it. The impeller is the most important and only moving part in the FX6 so make sure it is in good condition. Your timing is impeccable, I'm uploading a video tomorrow on exactly how to clean and inspect the fx6 impeller unit. Dont miss it!
I have a 75 gallon currently running a 407 and a 207. I just bought the FX6 to replace both as I'd rather have just one cannister. Do you think the FX6 is overkill for a 75 gallon? Currently have 2 dwarf cichlids, 7 diamond tetras, a few guppies and a vampire pleco. Will be adding more in the future of course. Also where abouts would you put polyfil if you were to use that as well? Recommend it? Thanks! Love the videos btw 😀
Hey Kev, I have a FX4 so I have one less tray. What do you think about this potential setup? Top Tray: BioMax, BioFoam, Fine Filter Pad (if it fits) Bottom Tray: Aragonite and Purigen
Just to clarify, aragonite sand is not going to stay in the filter, its too fine. You want crushed coral in the filter. (I know the bag says aragonite, but its crushed coral) The only change I would make from this videos setup is I now put purigen in the top tray for easy access when its time to replace it. Still works just as good there. here's an updated video on the setup - th-cam.com/video/7pnrrTDt1CQ/w-d-xo.html
Question . I have a Fx4 on my 75g tank. I want to upgrade to fx6 how would I do it? Transfer 2 trays of the Fx4 and just add 1 extra tray to the new fx6 . I'll be using 2 old trays that has bacteria and 1 new one to the fx6 it's that ok.? Or theys another way?
Love this video, I wish to obtain, but wanting to place Biohome in all three with filter floss in top of top tray and using red tray in bottom with Purigen below the red tray, with that being the only red tray in use. They are very expensive, but once amount of biological media is in place??? With such ease of usage.
I am fixing to be setting up this same canister, for a 125# is still the way you recommend this set up with same products since video was made ? And where do I find the bio media ultra stuff you used ?
I had a panic attack because I worried I had missed a package of carbon in the top baskets, but it was two baskets of sponge. Now I wish I had put aragonite in the bottom filter. I had it in there, and then took it out again because I second-guessed myself. My PH is currently 7.2, though, and I really want it to be 7.4 or so, because I'm eventually gonna get rainbowfish. Built the filter today, so it'll probably be 2-3 months before I get them, since I am doing a brand new cycle and not using media from my other tanks. How much does aragonite usually raise PH? Any way to tell?
What media would u use for thus tank stocking in each of the 2 canisters 150g 4 Sevrums (2 gold grow to 10 inch £18, 2 green grow to 10 inch £10 might change colours now I’m saving up ) 3. 3 blue acara grows to 6 inch (2 choices normal £18 or electric £27) 5. 2 bandit chiclids grow to 5 inch (£10) 6. 3 blood parrots grow to 10 inch (1 red £10, 1 yellow £14 , 1 polar white £9) 9. 3 keyhole chiclid grow to 5 inch (£15) 1. 2 Firemouth 6 inch each 2. 2 rainbow cichlids 6 inch each 3. 1 red thread fin chiclid 9 inch PLECO 7 inch (1 green £ 1 blue phantom £)
What's up Kev. Love your videos. Just subscribed. I have a question. I have a 72 in long, 125 gallon tank. Where would you suggest I place the intakes and outputs for 2 FX6's along with a 1600 GPH wave maker and a 800 gph wave maker.
In your case start with one fx6 intake and output close to either side, lets say the left side. so your output is pushing water at the top to the right. Your second fx6 intake can go on the right side but the output should go some where around the middle, but also pushing water to the right side along the top. Put your 1600 wavemaker on the left pushing water towards the right like both your outputs. And the 800 wave maker should go on the bottom of the right side, this will give you a constant circular motion in your tank....Hope that all made sense.
great video....my only issue with the fx6 is the small bio media trays. For a filter that powerful and great they should have made bigger trays...Also those rings they come with are useless lol
Im beginning to believe that a lot of the bio-media choices on the market are useless...just some good o’ll sponges seem to do the trick. Plenty of surface area for BB 🤷🏼♂️
would u happen to know if a o ring goes in the bottom grove inside the canister toward the bottom. trying to see if you would know fluval couldn't help me. and the lid does have its o ring on. ? shooting my shot here. lol
Hey do you have any tips to reduce the noise from the canister fx6, its driving my wife cracy. Maybe some foam or something ? just a Q from a beginner from Denmark, Love you channel.
The FX6 should actually be almost silent. Its designed that way. If yours is making noise something isnt set correctly inside. I would take it a part and reset all the media and trays inside. Also make sure nothing is inside your impeller unit. Heres a helpful video on the impeller - th-cam.com/video/qeBVJq58zjM/w-d-xo.html
Wow good eye! I’m makeing a future video on those...I use them for my lights, wave makers and heater...I have them set up with Alexa also so it’s all voice commands 👍🤣
Set up my FX6 on a 125 Gallon and the output flow is pretty low. Have a heater next to the intake. It did throughly heat the tank up. But that flows just feels weak coming out. My 407 has a stronger output flow.
where did you get those mesh bags? I remember seeing a kid saying to add loose biohome and add some in bags, he explained it really well I just forget why in his explanation lol i would guess to move if needed for seeding or something of that nature, maybe replacing it. I added a bunch of filter floss to the top but it breaks down pretty fast in my tank. some say put filter floss in the bottom but seems to be some debate about that. Cheers brother.
Its kind of an either or thing, but yea being able to move it completely to a new filter would make sense...I definitely wouldnt put any floss on the bottom, just going to trap the gunk down there, clog your mdia, and slow your flow...but heres the link to the bags I used. XL perfect size for FX6 Media or chemical filtration. www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N1XOS9G/
Pond Guru also suggest adding some medium sponges (with the course sponges) to the outside of the trays, this will help in reducing the quick breakdown of the fine pad on top. IMO thats a lot of work though lol
Looks like the last tray with the carbon was filled too much. Also, you don't need to put any bio media in since your entire tank has bacteria. Crushed coral is not good since it captures uneaten food and fish waste....nitrates. But, it's in the canister, so rinse that out well.
Hi dude love your videos. I also have african chilids and have 2 fx4 on the go. But I would like to do that set-up but the fx4 has 2 trays . How can I do the same principle with 3 trays. Thanks for your help man
Hi kaveman I have a fluval 407 on a 75gal looking to upgrade to a fx6 can I put the old bio into the fx6 since it has its beneficial bacteria in it already. Or can I use the fx6 that has bio media in it already.
So I set up the lil brother to the filter the fx4. I have lil air bubbles and read it could be to my top being to tight. I keep loosening it slowly expecting the top to fly off any second with water everywhere. How do I know how tight / loose the top should be?
Hey Kev, i have a question for you. We just set up our new 75 gallon tank with aragonite sand and the FX6. We expected the water to be cloudy a little bit because we mixed up the sand by adding all of the water initially. This morning, however, the water is still cloudy. We did not rinse the sand when we set it up because it is live sand. In the canister we have on bottom tray, Chemiblue, a full bag of purigen, crushed coral. The middle tray is bio media, and top is filters. How long would you expect it take to clear up? We literally cannot see through the water at all. Thanks for the advice!!
This is normal when adding new sand. Especially when it’s not rinsed. But you were right not to rinse the araga-live. Doing so would kill the live bacteria. Honestly it’ll take a few days, maybe even a week to clear up. Do a water change at the one week mark and keep your fingers crossed that the cloud doesn’t last too long. 🤞
@@KaveManAquatics Thanks a bunch, Kev! We love your videos. They are so incredibly helpful! Keep on making those videos....you are a gifted teacher for sure!
I had 2 bags of Chemi pure blue in the bottom, But I now keep them and any other chemical media in the top tray, watch this - th-cam.com/video/Qz9Qjyt7hLU/w-d-xo.html
Nope, not loud at all. And havent don anything to suppress noise. It's just super quiet. Only way i know theyre running is to look at the waves coming from the output 😁
ive got a 210g, with 3 fx6 filters. 2 outtake hoses on the left. 1 outake hose on the right. So can you tell me now? Also would the type of fish matter?... cause ive got mostly s.amer cichlids.8- 18inches. I basically want to know if my outtake power will be enough to create surface agitation . Instead of buying a wave maker
Yes your outputs will create enough surface agitation but a wave maker also sucks water to it pulling detritus up off your substrate so it can find your filter intakes.
What's going on Brotha... Hope all is well with you and yours, and you're keeping your head up with all this craziness going on. Quick Question... How long do you keep your Crushed Coral in the bottom tray for?... And do you change it?
All good here bro, thankfully! Hope all yours are doing well too! The crushed coral never needs to be replaced, its good forever. If you like the look of it you can even add it to your substrate in your tank...and it can stay there forever too 👍
Love the videos! Took a lot of info from these! Any reason to go for the 407 over the fx4? Debating the 2 and just worried about the flow of the FX4 in a community tank at 350l?
ross gribble Glad you’re enjoying the videos! 👍 If Im not mistaken 350L is about 90 Gallons. I have an FX6 on my 75 gallon. Even though Fluval rates it for a 400 gallon aquarium, that’s without any media in the canister. After you stuff it with sponges and bio media and chemical media the flow is greatly reduced. Honestly I’d go with the FX6 for your 350L. You can adjust the output flow if it’s still to strong for your community fish.
Hey, I am just wondering do you think an fx6 (and two sponge filters rated 75 gallons) is enough filtration for a 300 gallon tank with about 24 fish in it?
Unfortunately not, after stuffing your FX6 with media the flow rate is reduced from what Fluval says it can filter. I agree with Joey from King of DIY, he states the max for an FX6 is about 150G. Even though those sponge filters are great I wouldn’t rely on them to filter the other 150G you have left. IMO
Hey Kev I have a 75 gallon tank with 25 African chiclids, I just purchased the fx6, but pryer to the fx6 I had 2 hang over the back Marine penguin filters and also 2 sponge filters, should I get rid of the hob filters and sponge filters and just go with the fx6 by itself?
You absolutely can! But I would run the FX6 and all other filters together for at least 2 weeks to help seed the media in new filter. 😁 Congrats on that monster!
Hi Kaveman I noticed you changed the position of the chemical media in a recent video to the top different from this video. Is this purely for maintenance purposes and doesn't affect the recommended placement too much ? I got this filter recently to beef up an existing oase biomaster 850 filter in a 500litre tank for which I recently added discus too UK gallon is different from US gallons hence litres!
Yes, purely for ease of maintenance. (Monthly removal and replacement) I’ve done the research as to why chemical should always be last but it’s had very minimal negative effects (if any) being before the bio. Also, I only do it first, top tray, in the FX6
@@KaveManAquatics much appreciated for the reply looking forward to try chemi pure blue and purigen ! Have had driftwood for 6 months but it still leaves tannins. Still battling those pesky nitrates though
Hello Kev. I have the FX6 I am getting ready for my cichlid tank. You recommended Poly-fil in another video. Where would you suggest putting that in the filter. Thank You
KaveMan Aquatics Thanks Kev. I have been enjoying your videos . I understand its a lot of good information on TH-cam but yours is top notch and straight to the point.
Can you use regular crushed coral instead of the aragonite crushed coral ?? Or is there any of the brand names ok 2use ?? Cause it's hard 2find the brand name you use ..
I have 3 FX6’s and a 407 in my living room. I don’t hear any of them at all. You may want to try cleaning your impeller. TH-cam search “kaveman impeller”
It's easier to use the top tray for polishing and Purigen, less work to replace it in a couple months vs pulling the whole thing out. These canisters are made to go the distance usually 6 months or longer fine.
Ive read that crushed coral is great for African cichlids but bad for central american cichlids. I have an fx6 and convict cichlids. What should be in my baskets besides chemipure blue, activated carbon, biofoam and biomax pellets? Any info is appreciated
Crushed coral is used to raise the PH and water hardness for African Cichlids. American Cichlids are not kept in a high PH range so you wouldnt use crushed coral for them. Here's an updated setup for the FX6 - th-cam.com/video/WlKVa0qzjwg/w-d-xo.html
Fx6 is an amazing component, although I run an Fx4 ( I purchased for half price with additional forms of points within local petstore) what filter would you recommend that is of lower price that is compatible with bio media that compares? Please keep in mind that I love Fluval products, not everyone can obtain them due to price? Thank you for what you do, I learn a great deal from your videos and those from HyN fishkeeper, love that guy. Much love and respect. Adam
lower price? Try the fluval 407 its a step down from the FX series canisters but still a great powerful filter for the price. Check it out here...amzn.to/3gBnDuS
@@KaveManAquatics ty for responding, I too feel the same, but I was thinking of the sun sun canister. When you apply the knowledge from Pondguru and the Bio media requirements for Full Cycle, is the 704 series a bad idea? Price wise the Sun Sun is amazing, although the reliability of Fluval and their technology is untouchable. Once again the Fluval canister and products are amazing but.price wise, very expensive.
@@adamsantos5737 I know what you mean, I'm a fluval fan myself and have only ever used fluval canisters. I do hear good things about the sun sun's but havent ever used one so couldnt give you any useful feedback there. Pondguru also pimps out the fluval filters as well. I loaded my FX6 as per his recommendations.
@@KaveManAquatics as did I with my FX4, I purchased mine for 108.00 after my points and applied to my 75 gallon juvenile tank with 7 Firemouths. I also have a red devil tank. I'm wanting to replace my 75 gallon filter system with more bio media and put fx4 on my red devils tank, will be 90 or 100 gallon. He will be the only occupant in tank. Sun Sun 704 series can hold a kilo more of Biohome then the fx6 I believe, per pondguru advice within his Pimp my filter video. Ty once again for responding. I know you are busy and for you to take the time per responding is amazing, ty and have a blessed day. Your tanks are amazing....
I have a 125 gallon tank i have had it set up for about 5 years but not with cichlids . I am changing it over to cichlid tank . My question is how much more media should I add to the FX6 filter compared to what you have in this video ... Thanks
Awesome idea! You'll love them! The media I used in this video is the perfect amount for African Cichlids. Im running this FX6 on a 75 Gallon with about 30-35 fish. (I am definitely Over Filtering) This same setup should also work great for your 125. If you havent already seen this FX6 in action on my tank with my African Cichlids check this video out! th-cam.com/video/vD3aL5ONwzo/w-d-xo.html
@@KaveManAquatics I noticed in one of your videos you mentioned using polyfill in the filter should i use this in the filter when i start and if so where and how much do i put in it ? thanks ... I love your videos very informative...
Thanks for the love! Much appreciated! Poly-fil is kind of a double edged sword. It’s so good at catching and trapping the tiniest particles that it gets clogged up fairly quickly. I use poly-fil in my smaller filter that requires a cleaning every 1-3 months and I can easily replace the clogged up poly fil. But I wouldn’t use it in my FX6 because that filter can go 3-6 months without a cleaning. That would mean the poly fill will remain clogged and lose its function and actually hurt my flow rate...Hope that makes sense.
@@KaveManAquatics ive got a 210g, with 3 fx6 filters. 2 outtake hoses on the left. 1 outake hose on the right. So can you tell me now? Also would the type of fish matter?... cause ive got mostly s.amer cichlids.8- 18inches
Can the ChemiPure be used in a tank with koi and goldfish? or is it just for tropical fish? and can the bio home ultimate also be used with koi and goldfish?
Does the fx6 have a bubble problem? I got a marineland c360 because i couldn't afford this fx6 but now I'm struggling with micro bubbles coming out of the outtake pipe. It's not like a ridiculous amount of micro bubbles but still it's annoying me. And it only shoots out micro bubbles in burst once every like 20 to 30 seconds and not constantly. It also has a slight rattling sound coming from the impeller area. Wondering if I should just spend the extra 200 bucks or so and just get a fx6.
@@KaveManAquatics i seen this other dude on TH-cam fix his c360 bubble problem by replacing the plastic hose clamps the filter came with with some of those metal garden hose clamps that you screw tight. Il give this a shot and that will be my last attempt at fixing this issue. If it done work il have to bust open the piggy bank and get that fx6. Join the club right?
Quick question, I'm about to set up a fx6, adding Biohome in current filter and il be buying about 3k more. In the bottom try, you add chemiblue pure. Firstly because it only takes up about half a tub can you add Biohome media on top of it? And also how did yours get on just adding chemipure blue, I heard it can mess around and cause crashes?
Also dont see a reason why you couldnt add more biomedia to the same tray where your chemi-pure blue is. I'd pack in as much bio-home as I can. Keep in mind the more you pack it in it will reduce your flow. Im giving it a good 6 months, packed to the gills and then post a review of the bio-home ultimate...stay tuned! 😊
John Bledsoe The honest answer is that every tank is different. It all depends on your bio-load. Generally the FX6 can go about 1-3 months without a cleaning. After your first cleaning see how dirty it was, if it wasn’t to bad extend your time frame, if it’s totally nasty then next time clean it a bit sooner. It’s a great filter though! Good luck
Have you upgraded to an FX6? If so share your experience, what do you think is the best feature of the fx6? Don't forget to subscribe - th-cam.com/users/kavemanaquatics
Just got into the hobby 3 months ago. Already 3 tanks in. Was curious about the FX6, stumbled upon your channel a week ago because of this video. A week later I’m ordering a 180 gallon tank because now I NEED a Cichlid tank. Thank a lot bro! My wife hates you.
lol Yea I've heard I have that effect on people...tell your wife Sorry, not sorry! 🤣
Jesus Christ man,you explain everything so well and easy to understand,I love it
lol Thanks bro, glad you found it helpful! 😊💪
*Update* - Since my last comment 3 weeks ago. I used this same setup for my FX6 and used the exact media (purchased through your links) on my 125-gallon and 35-gallon tanks and the water is crystal clear. The best condition my water has ever seen! The fish are extremely healthy and doing perfectly. Thank you for publishing this video and keep up the great work!
My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁
Dude I loaded up my two FX6 Filters like you showed in this video and it’s absolutely fantastic on my 150 gallon aquarium. I ordered the media on Amazon and it’s awesome. Thanks so much!
My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful. 😊
BTW, you should check out my new Aquarium Keeping APP designed for beginners! - aquabuildr.com
What a superb video. I'll be using this as a guide for setting up my FX6. It's just a matter of time!! God bless. 🐟 🐠
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
@@KaveManAquatics Oh wow. I just downloaded it. Thank you!
This video was awesome!!! Thank you for making it and doing everything step by step.
A RES adopted me a few years ago and I’ve been struggling with her tank and the fx4 I got for her. I had no idea how high maintenance an aquatic turtle is! FYI: I did try to rehome her when I first found her. God got jokes. Lol
Totally love the FX 6 line. I run 4 of these on my 600 gallon SA/CA tank(120×48×24) as well as 2 on my 135 gallon African cichlid tank. A a FX4 on my 64 bow front, I even use 2 on my raised Koi pond. For me I found that hard plumbing all my FX6'S was the best way to go. On all my FX6'S the middle and bottom trays are full of Seachem Matrix. I run polishing pads in all my rip trays with purigen right under. With the exception of the 2 in use on my Koi pond, I only perform deep cleaning once a year on my filters each having a differ cycle. My 600 gets 1 FX6 deep cleaned every 3 months. The others just get new polishing pads and Purigen. My 135 gallon every 6 month's 1 gets done. While alternating.
Nice, I thought I had a lot of fluval stuff! Nice collection of tanks and filters! 💪
@@KaveManAquaticsthanks, it's too bad you can't upload photos to TH-cam.
@@jeffthompson4569 head over to my Facebook group! Https://Facebook.com/groups/kavemanaquatics
This video should be titled, I installed the “FX6 PRO” - good job
Excellent video, simple and yet to the point..
Thank you bro! Glad it was helpful 😊
Great info, I just noticed my fx6 needs more chemical media and carbon. Another trip to petsmart my wife said.
🤣🤣
Just brought a FX6 and needed some advice and here I am........ :)
Glad you made it here! 😊💪 This video's a bit dated. you should check out my whole FX6 playlist for more updated videos and tactics 😊 - th-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8N4952LL3ElXj3J9R9iacFv.html
@@KaveManAquatics will do that now. Thanks 😀
I am an Arab and I am attracted to your clip because it is well translated😊
Awesome, Thank you!
Bro your a life save in this hobby! Keep goin
Thank you! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁💪
Thanks for this information. I just repurposed my old one, and can't remember what it had in it.
My pleasure! 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
Thank you for answering my questions
This is great man thank you ! Love your channel, I just got one of these and I have been trying to determine how to upgrade
Glad I could help! 😊
I just started using an FX6 and your video was a lifesaver, do you possibly have any suggestions for cleaning the media in the FX6??? What should I do specifically?
I'm going to set up a 1025 litre / 270 gallon african cichlid tank in the new year and I have been getting alot of useful information from your channel so thank you so much . I'm looking at this filter for my tank but I'm thinking maybe I'll run 2 of them in tandem to turn that huge volume of water over more often ?
Best Fluval FX6 setup video on youtube! Subscribed!
Thank you! 😁
I strongly agree with that! Everything explained simply and clearly in just 10 minutes! Fluval should include your video as part of the owners manual with FX6 ;P
I would toss the red trays all together and just put a fine pad on top.
If using all the same media anyway, yea I agree.
Love your videos always going back if i need anything, thank you Kev :)
My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful.
BTW, you should check out my new Aquarium Keeping APP designed for beginners! - aquabuildr.com
Great video, I purchased *everything* (except the FX6 which I have) on your affiliate product list!
In my FX4 I removed the red trays and filled the bottom completely with Biohome SBG and I filled the second with Biohome Ultimate, please keep in mind I also run 2 large sponge filters and Potho plants reside as well, 6 weeks passed with no water change and only adding water when needed. I check water conditions and only needed a 40% water change. This was in my 75 gallon. Please keep in mind I house 6 juvenile Firemouths and 2 juvenile Jack Dempsey. I applied a HOB with additional Biohome and current time is 53 days, my water is crystal and awaiting another test.
Adam Santos Pothos helps a lot in reducing nitrates as well. Your test on the bio-home May not be accurate because there’s no way to tell how much work your pothos is doing...it could be removing the majority of nitrates.
@@KaveManAquatics so very true.
Really good video man, very helpful !! Thankyou
My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁
Best filter and so quiet
Buenos videos gracias desde Guadalajara, Jalisco.mexico das buenos consejos amigo 👍👍👍
Muchas Gracias! 😁
I just bought a 210 gallon 72x24. A year old, that came with 3 fx6 filters wondering what I could do with them. To make it better
Great Video! I have two HOB aquaclear 110’s for my 75 freshwater tank. New to the hobby and still learning. I have seachem matrix on both for my bio-media. I’m looking into switching to what you have. Will it mess up my water parameters or anything in my tank if I take out what I have and switch it to the bio home ultimate media?
Also I just seen more of your videos about Seachem Stress Guard. I have plecos and Corydoras. Is it safe for me to add stress guard? Please and thank you!
If your tank has been cycled already then don’t take all the media out at once. That may crash your system and cause an ammonia spike. If you want to change media you have to gradually replace it. I’d say replace half the media in 1 HOB and wait about 1-2 weeks. Then replace the other half. Same time frame, then start on the 2nd HOB, again half and half. This will make sure you give your bacteria some time to grow on the new media.
Yes, stress guard is safe for them. I have plecos and a cory cat in my tank too.
I have a great playlist for beginners, check it out, might help...th-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er.html
I see you use BIOHOME . The god of filter-media ! How long did it take to fully cycle, for you, to Nitrate (N3) reduction and how much nitrate reduction are you seeing? Great vids btw, you and Mr Ochard have got it covered when it comes to fast and focused tips. regards from Scotland.
I actually failed drastically with bio-home. Did not get any nitrate reduction. But to its defense I did not use the specified amount I was supposed to you, its just a ridiculous amount a 1 tank owner should have to use. I have since removed it all. Heres an update video on the results - th-cam.com/video/NYZzpvKygDc/w-d-xo.html
I found someone on another channel who had a report of BIOHOME stopping working when their tap nitrates went from 20 to 40 "
Zorba
1 year ago
Ahh mate a bloody good video,,,, im also a water test freak which brought me here ,, thank you ,, i also got my media fromthe Pond Guru but the small bio balls to inside my internal Juwel 3m . with good results , , i was getting 10ppm in Nitrate until last week , up to 40ppm , cause unkown ,,, investigation time .. tested the water coming into the house and it has risen to 40ppm . from 20ppm Affinity water down south ,,,, lol Hope that your keeping well ,, regards that fella from Da South of England ..
love your content . shame your not local ," th-cam.com/video/o-X-zsx8LkM/w-d-xo.html
Nitrate reduction does not exist in filtrations. They are the end product of the nitrogen cycle. You can add plants, water changes, or clean debris out of the mechanical filters etc to reduce nitrates
So Kev what are you currently using inside of your fx6 now Pot scrubbers instead of the Fluval ceramic rings?
Excellent !!!! Could you please list for me and put of stuff you put in each ring . Just in case I wrote it down wrong . I am getting my fx6 ready to start my 150 gallon tank . You did great helping a beginner .
Glad you enjoyed it. Sponges on top, bio media in the middle, and crushed coral and chemical media in the bottom.
Kaveman with all due respect. Having a smoke detector beeping in the background really doesn't add positive things to a video. Also that beeping sound is telling you to replace the battery, which can save your life. Hope you got it resolved. If not please do as I mentioned that smoke detector can save you and your family's life. It only needs a 9v battery. Love your video. Minus the beeps :)
Lol, thanks Howard. It started beeping while filming, Wasn’t about to dig for a 9 volt in the moment. 😁
Always one bell end
biohome the beast than seachem matrix 👌❤️
Hi KaveMan, great videos!
I have a Fluval fx6 also. I watched a video on how to "pimp" your Fluval fx6 about 2 years ago. I have been placing my set up as such, outer circle is the white course sponge. Then I cut medium pond filter sheets to size to fit in behind the course sponge. Then for the middle of the tray I add poly fill, Fluval bio rings and then a black bio sponge at the bottom of the tray. I do not use any chemical media at all.
All 3 trays are set up the exact same way in my filter top to bottom. So far so good with no problems for the 2 years, but now I am wondering if I have everything set up right in my filter? Is there such a thing as adding too much filter stuff? My water output flow is just fine but could I really be over working my Fluval fx6??
I know with this hobby you never stop learning and have heard if it works for you then don't change it, but 2 years ago has been a while now. Never hurts to stop and "check in" lol 😊
you say you have the bio sponge at the bottom. that should be on top. the water flow is down the tube up the side's through those sponges then down the middle circles. Have your Mechanical at the top then the bio.
@@Sean3D2Y thank you!
Hi Kev. How many kg of Biohome ultimate do you think I should get for my new FX6? Fantastic & informative show. Thankyou 🙂
Thanks! 😊 I used about 3lbs, stuffed the whole FX6 and still had some left over. Just keep in mind if you fill it entirely with biohome ultimate like mine it will greatly reduces your flow rate. I have a second canister on my 75 to back up the slow flow of the FX6.
I bought a house recently that came with a large tank (maybe 100gal?) and an FX6; i'm new to large tanks. This video helped me understand this Fluval fx6 system and how to set it up. I have no idea how long it's been operating, do i need to open it up and examine it to maybe replace filters or other components that may be old?
Good video! I susbscribed :)
Thanks for subscribing! Yes definitely open it up, clean it out, and inspect it. The impeller is the most important and only moving part in the FX6 so make sure it is in good condition. Your timing is impeccable, I'm uploading a video tomorrow on exactly how to clean and inspect the fx6 impeller unit. Dont miss it!
I have a 75 gallon currently running a 407 and a 207. I just bought the FX6 to replace both as I'd rather have just one cannister. Do you think the FX6 is overkill for a 75 gallon? Currently have 2 dwarf cichlids, 7 diamond tetras, a few guppies and a vampire pleco. Will be adding more in the future of course. Also where abouts would you put polyfil if you were to use that as well? Recommend it? Thanks! Love the videos btw 😀
Is, about right. You could probably get away with an FX4 as well.
Where did you pick up that stacked one piece rock formations in your tank.
PetSmart
Hey Kev, I have a FX4 so I have one less tray. What do you think about this potential setup?
Top Tray: BioMax, BioFoam, Fine Filter Pad (if it fits)
Bottom Tray: Aragonite and Purigen
Just to clarify, aragonite sand is not going to stay in the filter, its too fine. You want crushed coral in the filter. (I know the bag says aragonite, but its crushed coral) The only change I would make from this videos setup is I now put purigen in the top tray for easy access when its time to replace it. Still works just as good there. here's an updated video on the setup - th-cam.com/video/7pnrrTDt1CQ/w-d-xo.html
Great video Kave with very useful information!!! Regards!
Thanks bro, glad you found it helpful!
Question . I have a Fx4 on my 75g tank. I want to upgrade to fx6 how would I do it? Transfer 2 trays of the Fx4 and just add 1 extra tray to the new fx6 . I'll be using 2 old trays that has bacteria and 1 new one to the fx6 it's that ok.? Or theys another way?
Love this video, I wish to obtain, but wanting to place Biohome in all three with filter floss in top of top tray and using red tray in bottom with Purigen below the red tray, with that being the only red tray in use. They are very expensive, but once amount of biological media is in place??? With such ease of usage.
You can do it!
Hi Kev can this filtration be used on saltwater as well as freshwater if not what filtration do you recommend in the fx6
I am fixing to be setting up this same canister, for a 125# is still the way you recommend this set up with same products since video was made ? And where do I find the bio media ultra stuff you used ?
I had a panic attack because I worried I had missed a package of carbon in the top baskets, but it was two baskets of sponge. Now I wish I had put aragonite in the bottom filter. I had it in there, and then took it out again because I second-guessed myself. My PH is currently 7.2, though, and I really want it to be 7.4 or so, because I'm eventually gonna get rainbowfish. Built the filter today, so it'll probably be 2-3 months before I get them, since I am doing a brand new cycle and not using media from my other tanks.
How much does aragonite usually raise PH? Any way to tell?
Exactly the same thing I try. Thanks man.
No problem 👍
What media would u use for thus tank stocking in each of the 2 canisters 150g
4 Sevrums (2 gold grow to 10 inch £18, 2 green grow to 10 inch £10 might change colours now I’m saving up )
3. 3 blue acara grows to 6 inch (2 choices normal £18 or electric £27)
5. 2 bandit chiclids grow to 5 inch (£10)
6. 3 blood parrots grow to 10 inch (1 red £10, 1 yellow £14 , 1 polar white £9)
9. 3 keyhole chiclid grow to 5 inch (£15)
1. 2 Firemouth 6 inch each
2. 2 rainbow cichlids 6 inch each
3. 1 red thread fin chiclid 9 inch
PLECO 7 inch (1 green £ 1 blue phantom £)
What's up Kev. Love your videos. Just subscribed. I have a question. I have a 72 in long, 125 gallon tank. Where would you suggest I place the intakes and outputs for 2 FX6's along with a 1600 GPH wave maker and a 800 gph wave maker.
In your case start with one fx6 intake and output close to either side, lets say the left side. so your output is pushing water at the top to the right. Your second fx6 intake can go on the right side but the output should go some where around the middle, but also pushing water to the right side along the top. Put your 1600 wavemaker on the left pushing water towards the right like both your outputs. And the 800 wave maker should go on the bottom of the right side, this will give you a constant circular motion in your tank....Hope that all made sense.
Yes, makes perfect sense. Thank you, and I really appreciate your fast response.
great video....my only issue with the fx6 is the small bio media trays. For a filter that powerful and great they should have made bigger trays...Also those rings they come with are useless lol
Im beginning to believe that a lot of the bio-media choices on the market are useless...just some good o’ll sponges seem to do the trick. Plenty of surface area for BB 🤷🏼♂️
Deja los dos filtros,así tendrías
tremenda combinación.felicitaciones👍🏽
Gracias, si ya lo había pensado😊
Just left Petsmart, FX6 for 240.00, everything is extremely marked down, even their tank setup...
Adam Santos That is an awesome price!!!
would u happen to know if a o ring goes in the bottom grove inside the canister toward the bottom. trying to see if you would know fluval couldn't help me. and the lid does have its o ring on. ? shooting my shot here. lol
Hey do you have any tips to reduce the noise from the canister fx6, its driving my wife cracy. Maybe some foam or something ? just a Q from a beginner from Denmark, Love you channel.
The FX6 should actually be almost silent. Its designed that way. If yours is making noise something isnt set correctly inside. I would take it a part and reset all the media and trays inside. Also make sure nothing is inside your impeller unit. Heres a helpful video on the impeller - th-cam.com/video/qeBVJq58zjM/w-d-xo.html
I noticed you have smart plugs; what do you have plugged in those to monitor? I was thinking about that for the heaters and lights. Lol
Wow good eye! I’m makeing a future video on those...I use them for my lights, wave makers and heater...I have them set up with Alexa also so it’s all voice commands 👍🤣
Great video. Is this setup suitable for a red-eared slider turtle?
Don’t know much about turtles but yes this setup should work just as well 😁
Set up my FX6 on a 125 Gallon and the output flow is pretty low. Have a heater next to the intake. It did throughly heat the tank up. But that flows just feels weak coming out. My 407 has a stronger output flow.
where did you get those mesh bags? I remember seeing a kid saying to add loose biohome and add some in bags, he explained it really well I just forget why in his explanation lol i would guess to move if needed for seeding or something of that nature, maybe replacing it.
I added a bunch of filter floss to the top but it breaks down pretty fast in my tank. some say put filter floss in the bottom but seems to be some debate about that.
Cheers brother.
Its kind of an either or thing, but yea being able to move it completely to a new filter would make sense...I definitely wouldnt put any floss on the bottom, just going to trap the gunk down there, clog your mdia, and slow your flow...but heres the link to the bags I used. XL perfect size for FX6 Media or chemical filtration. www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N1XOS9G/
Pond Guru also suggest adding some medium sponges (with the course sponges) to the outside of the trays, this will help in reducing the quick breakdown of the fine pad on top. IMO thats a lot of work though lol
@@KaveManAquatics thanks bro appreciate it
@@KaveManAquatics and expensive, factory sponges seem great
PROMETHEUS Yes sir, they sure are 👍
Looks like the last tray with the carbon was filled too much. Also, you don't need to put any bio media in since your entire tank has bacteria. Crushed coral is not good since it captures uneaten food and fish waste....nitrates. But, it's in the canister, so rinse that out well.
Excellent info bro!
Glad it was helpful!
Hi dude love your videos.
I also have african chilids and have 2 fx4 on the go. But I would like to do that set-up but the fx4 has 2 trays . How can I do the same principle with 3 trays. Thanks for your help man
Sorry what I mean is I have 2 trays not 3
Since you only have 2 trays you would have to use less bio-media...that or eliminate the chemical media from the top tray and replace with bio.
Hi kaveman I have a fluval 407 on a 75gal looking to upgrade to a fx6 can I put the old bio into the fx6 since it has its beneficial bacteria in it already. Or can I use the fx6 that has bio media in it already.
So I set up the lil brother to the filter the fx4. I have lil air bubbles and read it could be to my top being to tight. I keep loosening it slowly expecting the top to fly off any second with water everywhere. How do I know how tight / loose the top should be?
Kev when do you implement the use of seachem stress guard
I use Stress Guard when adding new fish to my quarantine tank. Or if a fish has gotten beatin up and needs some healing in a hospital tank.
Hey Kev, i have a question for you. We just set up our new 75 gallon tank with aragonite sand and the FX6. We expected the water to be cloudy a little bit because we mixed up the sand by adding all of the water initially. This morning, however, the water is still cloudy. We did not rinse the sand when we set it up because it is live sand. In the canister we have on bottom tray, Chemiblue, a full bag of purigen, crushed coral. The middle tray is bio media, and top is filters. How long would you expect it take to clear up? We literally cannot see through the water at all. Thanks for the advice!!
This is normal when adding new sand. Especially when it’s not rinsed. But you were right not to rinse the araga-live. Doing so would kill the live bacteria. Honestly it’ll take a few days, maybe even a week to clear up. Do a water change at the one week mark and keep your fingers crossed that the cloud doesn’t last too long. 🤞
@@KaveManAquatics Thanks a bunch, Kev! We love your videos. They are so incredibly helpful! Keep on making those videos....you are a gifted teacher for sure!
Thank you! I appreciate the positive feedback, keeps me motivated 😊💪
The very bottom tray looks black what did you out there before adding crushed corals ?
I had 2 bags of Chemi pure blue in the bottom, But I now keep them and any other chemical media in the top tray, watch this - th-cam.com/video/Qz9Qjyt7hLU/w-d-xo.html
I have this exact filter and I’m curious as to what the two clips are on top of the canister itself
It holds the included drain hose the filter comes with.
Hey Kev, is the fx6 loud? And have you done anything to try to suppress the noise? Thank you!
Nope, not loud at all. And havent don anything to suppress noise. It's just super quiet. Only way i know theyre running is to look at the waves coming from the output 😁
How do you like this comparison to the pot scrubbers ?
This video was done prior to the pot scrubbers. Its Pot scrubbers all the way for me now!
ive got a 210g, with 3 fx6 filters. 2 outtake hoses on the left. 1 outake hose on the right. So can you tell me now?
Also would the type of fish matter?... cause ive got mostly s.amer cichlids.8- 18inches.
I basically want to know if my outtake power will be enough to create surface agitation . Instead of buying a wave maker
Yes your outputs will create enough surface agitation but a wave maker also sucks water to it pulling detritus up off your substrate so it can find your filter intakes.
Hi Kave, how long we have to replace a new crush coral? .. Thanks
How about poly-fil, where would you put that?
Bottom of the top tray, under your course sponges - th-cam.com/video/KbpEpfeGaHI/w-d-xo.html
I just wanted to know what type of media a Sony FX6 uses
Great set up!!!!
Jogajord Thanks 😊
What's going on Brotha... Hope all is well with you and yours, and you're keeping your head up with all this craziness going on.
Quick Question... How long do you keep your Crushed Coral in the bottom tray for?... And do you change it?
All good here bro, thankfully! Hope all yours are doing well too! The crushed coral never needs to be replaced, its good forever. If you like the look of it you can even add it to your substrate in your tank...and it can stay there forever too 👍
@@KaveManAquatics.... Okay cool 👍,... What size filter bag for the FX6, probably a Large?
And my BioHome that you have just got delivered... Lol
Jermaine T. Campbell, Sr. Definitely large...I think I linked the bags in the description. Check it out...
Jermaine T. Campbell, Sr. Nope not there, but here are the exact ones I used in the vid...they work great amzn.to/2MsoPU8
@@KaveManAquatics .... Thanks , I appreciate any and all of your help and input 👍💯..
Love the videos! Took a lot of info from these! Any reason to go for the 407 over the fx4? Debating the 2 and just worried about the flow of the FX4 in a community tank at 350l?
ross gribble Glad you’re enjoying the videos! 👍 If Im not mistaken 350L is about 90 Gallons. I have an FX6 on my 75 gallon. Even though Fluval rates it for a 400 gallon aquarium, that’s without any media in the canister. After you stuff it with sponges and bio media and chemical media the flow is greatly reduced. Honestly I’d go with the FX6 for your 350L. You can adjust the output flow if it’s still to strong for your community fish.
@@KaveManAquatics thanks for the quick response man! Will consider that advice heavily 😉 take it easy 👍🏻
ross gribble No problem! 😊
Lots of guys use lava rock as do I because it is so pouress
Lava rock is awesome bio media 💪
Pond guru says most of it is sealed
Hey, I am just wondering do you think an fx6 (and two sponge filters rated 75 gallons) is enough filtration for a 300 gallon tank with about 24 fish in it?
Unfortunately not, after stuffing your FX6 with media the flow rate is reduced from what Fluval says it can filter. I agree with Joey from King of DIY, he states the max for an FX6 is about 150G. Even though those sponge filters are great I wouldn’t rely on them to filter the other 150G you have left. IMO
Best filter i used some one
HOUSE OF CICHLIDS agreed!
Hey Kev I have a 75 gallon tank with 25 African chiclids, I just purchased the fx6, but pryer to the fx6 I had 2 hang over the back Marine penguin filters and also 2 sponge filters, should I get rid of the hob filters and sponge filters and just go with the fx6 by itself?
You absolutely can! But I would run the FX6 and all other filters together for at least 2 weeks to help seed the media in new filter. 😁 Congrats on that monster!
@@KaveManAquatics thank you sir I really appreciate all of your help.
Hi Kaveman I noticed you changed the position of the chemical media in a recent video to the top different from this video. Is this purely for maintenance purposes and doesn't affect the recommended placement too much ? I got this filter recently to beef up an existing oase biomaster 850 filter in a 500litre tank for which I recently added discus too
UK gallon is different from US gallons hence litres!
Yes, purely for ease of maintenance. (Monthly removal and replacement) I’ve done the research as to why chemical should always be last but it’s had very minimal negative effects (if any) being before the bio.
Also, I only do it first, top tray, in the FX6
@@KaveManAquatics much appreciated for the reply looking forward to try chemi pure blue and purigen ! Have had driftwood for 6 months but it still leaves tannins. Still battling those pesky nitrates though
Wow its great setup!!
What's the PH level for your cichlid tanks? Cheers
Thanks! I keep mine at a comfortable 8.2 How about yours?
@@KaveManAquatics I keep mine at 7.8 all healthy
Zain Al ameeri Awesome 👍
Hello Kev. I have the FX6 I am getting ready for my cichlid tank. You recommended Poly-fil in another video. Where would you suggest putting that in the filter. Thank You
In the bottom of the Top tray...so its the last mechanical filtration water hits on its way down the center of your trays.
KaveMan Aquatics Thanks Kev. I have been enjoying your videos . I understand its a lot of good information on TH-cam but yours is top notch and straight to the point.
Appreciate that! Thanks 😊
Can you use regular crushed coral instead of the aragonite crushed coral ?? Or is there any of the brand names ok 2use ?? Cause it's hard 2find the brand name you use ..
Any crushed coral should work fine. Did you try the link in the description?
Hey kev….you gonna tell everyone where you got the idea and content for this video?
Why don’t you tell me where I got it from? 🙄
Nice video. You can throw away those red trays. They are worthless and take up space. Just fill the whole space with your media.
How loud is your FX6? I hear mine at night when the house is quiet. I'm wondering if my motor is already going bad...
I have 3 FX6’s and a 407 in my living room. I don’t hear any of them at all. You may want to try cleaning your impeller. TH-cam search “kaveman impeller”
What do you think about also adding a bag of purigen to the bottom tray ?
Absolutely, if you’ve got room in there go for it. Purigen works great 👍
It's easier to use the top tray for polishing and Purigen, less work to replace it in a couple months vs pulling the whole thing out. These canisters are made to go the distance usually 6 months or longer fine.
Ive read that crushed coral is great for African cichlids but bad for central american cichlids. I have an fx6 and convict cichlids. What should be in my baskets besides chemipure blue, activated carbon, biofoam and biomax pellets? Any info is appreciated
Crushed coral is used to raise the PH and water hardness for African Cichlids. American Cichlids are not kept in a high PH range so you wouldnt use crushed coral for them. Here's an updated setup for the FX6 - th-cam.com/video/WlKVa0qzjwg/w-d-xo.html
Does Media work better in nylon bags or leave it loose in filter ?
Its not about working better. Bags are used to easily remove all the media together when its cleaning time. 😊
Fx6 is an amazing component, although I run an Fx4 ( I purchased for half price with additional forms of points within local petstore) what filter would you recommend that is of lower price that is compatible with bio media that compares? Please keep in mind that I love Fluval products, not everyone can obtain them due to price? Thank you for what you do, I learn a great deal from your videos and those from HyN fishkeeper, love that guy. Much love and respect.
Adam
lower price? Try the fluval 407 its a step down from the FX series canisters but still a great powerful filter for the price. Check it out here...amzn.to/3gBnDuS
@@KaveManAquatics ty for responding, I too feel the same, but I was thinking of the sun sun canister. When you apply the knowledge from Pondguru and the Bio media requirements for Full Cycle, is the 704 series a bad idea? Price wise the Sun Sun is amazing, although the reliability of Fluval and their technology is untouchable. Once again the Fluval canister and products are amazing but.price wise, very expensive.
@@adamsantos5737 I know what you mean, I'm a fluval fan myself and have only ever used fluval canisters. I do hear good things about the sun sun's but havent ever used one so couldnt give you any useful feedback there. Pondguru also pimps out the fluval filters as well. I loaded my FX6 as per his recommendations.
@@KaveManAquatics as did I with my FX4, I purchased mine for 108.00 after my points and applied to my 75 gallon juvenile tank with 7 Firemouths. I also have a red devil tank. I'm wanting to replace my 75 gallon filter system with more bio media and put fx4 on my red devils tank, will be 90 or 100 gallon. He will be the only occupant in tank. Sun Sun 704 series can hold a kilo more of Biohome then the fx6 I believe, per pondguru advice within his Pimp my filter video. Ty once again for responding. I know you are busy and for you to take the time per responding is amazing, ty and have a blessed day. Your tanks are amazing....
Thanks again! Glad I could help in anyway I can. Good luck with your tanks, sounds like your fish are in good hands! 😃👍
Привет! Как называется этот красный материал для биологии? Где можно заказать в Россию? Сколько стоит этот материал?
I have a 125 gallon tank i have had it set up for about 5 years but not with cichlids . I am changing it over to cichlid tank . My question is how much more media should I add to the FX6 filter compared to what you have in this video ... Thanks
Awesome idea! You'll love them! The media I used in this video is the perfect amount for African Cichlids. Im running this FX6 on a 75 Gallon with about 30-35 fish. (I am definitely Over Filtering) This same setup should also work great for your 125. If you havent already seen this FX6 in action on my tank with my African Cichlids check this video out! th-cam.com/video/vD3aL5ONwzo/w-d-xo.html
@@KaveManAquatics I noticed in one of your videos you mentioned using polyfill in the filter should i use this in the filter when i start and if so where and how much do i put in it ? thanks ... I love your videos very informative...
Thanks for the love! Much appreciated! Poly-fil is kind of a double edged sword. It’s so good at catching and trapping the tiniest particles that it gets clogged up fairly quickly. I use poly-fil in my smaller filter that requires a cleaning every 1-3 months and I can easily replace the clogged up poly fil. But I wouldn’t use it in my FX6 because that filter can go 3-6 months without a cleaning. That would mean the poly fill will remain clogged and lose its function and actually hurt my flow rate...Hope that makes sense.
Great Video. How much Biohome did you buy?
Packed about 4-5 pounds in!
@@KaveManAquatics Thank you!
What’s up Kev. I’m going to be getting a Fx4 which only has 2 levels. Is it the same deal? Chemi pure blue & purigen goes at the bottom?
Yes sir, and bio media in top
If I don't have a wave maker can setting the out take hose high enough to create water agitation be sufficient for me?
I wouldn't be able to tell you if its sufficient because it depends on your tank and your fish, but it will definitely be beneficial!
@@KaveManAquatics ive got a 210g, with 3 fx6 filters. 2 outtake hoses on the left. 1 outake hose on the right. So can you tell me now?
Also would the type of fish matter?... cause ive got mostly s.amer cichlids.8- 18inches
That is a big filter! How much was it?
Chris S Regular price is about 400-450, but I found a sale at petsmart for $250! 😊
@@KaveManAquatics sweet! You are becoming my favourite fish-tuber 👍
Chris S Awesome!! 😊
Can the ChemiPure be used in a tank with koi and goldfish? or is it just for tropical fish? and can the bio home ultimate also be used with koi and goldfish?
Yes, and Yes 😊
Does the fx6 have a bubble problem? I got a marineland c360 because i couldn't afford this fx6 but now I'm struggling with micro bubbles coming out of the outtake pipe. It's not like a ridiculous amount of micro bubbles but still it's annoying me. And it only shoots out micro bubbles in burst once every like 20 to 30 seconds and not constantly. It also has a slight rattling sound coming from the impeller area. Wondering if I should just spend the extra 200 bucks or so and just get a fx6.
That would annoy the heck out of me too! No the FX6 does not spit out micro bubbles when installed correctly 😊
@@KaveManAquatics i seen this other dude on TH-cam fix his c360 bubble problem by replacing the plastic hose clamps the filter came with with some of those metal garden hose clamps that you screw tight. Il give this a shot and that will be my last attempt at fixing this issue. If it done work il have to bust open the piggy bank and get that fx6. Join the club right?
The polishing pad should be in the bottom tray.
Wrong
Quick question, I'm about to set up a fx6, adding Biohome in current filter and il be buying about 3k more. In the bottom try, you add chemiblue pure. Firstly because it only takes up about half a tub can you add Biohome media on top of it? And also how did yours get on just adding chemipure blue, I heard it can mess around and cause crashes?
I heard the same thing from some viewers after this video, but it was the first I've heard of it. So i'm monitoring my water daily. So far so good 👍
Also dont see a reason why you couldnt add more biomedia to the same tray where your chemi-pure blue is. I'd pack in as much bio-home as I can. Keep in mind the more you pack it in it will reduce your flow. Im giving it a good 6 months, packed to the gills and then post a review of the bio-home ultimate...stay tuned! 😊
I have the Fx6 and If I set it up just like yours how often do I clean the filter and change the media out ? Thanks
John Bledsoe The honest answer is that every tank is different. It all depends on your bio-load. Generally the FX6 can go about 1-3 months without a cleaning. After your first cleaning see how dirty it was, if it wasn’t to bad extend your time frame, if it’s totally nasty then next time clean it a bit sooner. It’s a great filter though! Good luck