Aqua-Flow 300 (Amazon): geni.us/FBb6 Aqua-Flow 300 (Ebay): ebay.to/2REvdg2 (Check local stores too - it is quite a common filter) This seems to be a great little filter and the online reviews would seem to back up my findings in this video. It is extremely cheap too. Although it is an internal filter it has a decent amount of space for foams and media as opposed to most other designs which rely on cartridge systems. Cartridges are sold for this filter but you do not need them since it is so easy to swap internal parts to function very efficiently. It would make a good back-up filter for a large tank or a good main filter for a tank of between 50-100 litres / 13-26 US gallons) depending on stock. As the amount of media is limited by the size of filter I wouldn't say you'd achieve full cycle using this filter unless the tank was under 50 litres, then the reasonably high flow (540 lph) may be an issue depending on fish species but flow is adjustable. Media used in this video is 'Biogravel' which is a highly porous gravel made from same materials as 'Biohome' - media available here: www.filterpro.co.uk The goal with any filter is to try and achieve FULL CYCLE filtration which is the reduction in ammonia, nitrite AND nitrate - if you look anywhere online you'll see people tell you that the nitrogen cycle in an aquarium ends with the production of nitrate which is removed by regular (often large) water changes. That is HALF the cycle and is done by AEROBIC bacteria which favors highly oxygenated conditions and is very easy to grow on any surface. The last part of the cycle (reduction in nitrate) is completed by ANAEROBIC bacteria which favors an environment which is very low or devoid of oxygen. It takes filter media with a very specific internal structure to support both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria to allow for full cycle filtration but a suitably sized, well set up filter, will allow the full cycle to complete which results in more stable water conditions and less water changes (typically 10% every 1-2 weeks). Canister filters will generally offer the best provision for filter media but even internals can be significantly improved to boost water quality and fish health. If anyone tells you that a full cycle cannot be achieved and that nitrate is only reduced by plants or water changes they are either misinformed (repeating old information) or intentionally lying to maintain the ignorance of their followers or customers. A full cycle is entirely natural - we just need suitably sized, well set up filters to achieve that goal. The following videos will be useful to anyone interested in learning more about filtration, bacteria and making the conditions for your fish as good as possible: Sizing a canister properly and filter set up: goo.gl/om19un Looking INSIDE different filter media: goo.gl/hZWS6c Bacteria and filter media: goo.gl/123gAF How to clean an aquarium: goo.gl/bPMhvh Aquarium tips / filtration playlist: goo.gl/pXgqVj Check out my channel for hundreds of videos on a wide range of my hobbies - many of the videos have educational content so if you have enjoyed any give them the thumbs up and share anywhere you think others may benefit from viewing. This channel is purely a hobby for me so I will never ask viewers to donate money for any of my projects or charge anyone for information - information should be shared freely and I certainly don't consider myself an 'expert' in anything I pursue as a hobby so please do your own research, never accept anything as 'fact', reject anyone claiming to be some sort of authority or 'expert' and make your own minds up about anything you wish to study. We all are on a long path of learning......... If you've enjoyed this video please check out the playlists on my channel for hundreds more - on a variety of subjects. See you next time. Pondguru FILMING EQUIPMENT: Panasonic HC-VX870 HD camcorder geni.us/3UwE +Rode stereo microphone: geni.us/4OL +Rode 'deadcat' mic cover: geni.us/1pmn JVC Everio quad proof HD camcorder: geni.us/e09e +Rode 'deadcat' mic cover (opened up and held between tripod and camera base) geni.us/dee24 Zomei Z666 tripod: geni.us/1a1af3 Manfrotto MTPIXI-B PIXI mini tripod: geni.us/87f7
Thank you so much for these videos! I finally purchased your pond pads for my filters. They were already working much better just by changing the type and order of my media, and now they are amazing! I just went on vacation and my canister filter went 4 weeks without being cleaned. My pads caught what they should, the worst of the muck went below the bottom tray, and my bio filtration was still clean! I have an overstocked 40 gallon tank with 4 large gold fish (the smallest is 8"), an adult male red Eared Slider, and a 9" Pleco. I use an internal filter just to polish the water and the canister for the heavy work. Thank you so much for all of your great advice! My canister is a Marlin and my internal is a Cascade 600.
Anyone tested the noise/vibration level of the 300 or 200? I have heard mixed reports, from great to not great. That's the only thing missing from these outstanding Pondguru reviews - in-water testing, including noise/vibration assessment.
I have the 300 just set it up and it's quiet as a mouse, just a very low hum, perhaps they have replaced the motor since this review but my 300 is almost silent
@@privateportall Mine seems to vibrate against the glass when I change the filter. It started very silent, after a couple hours it made some more noise. Than after a day it was silent again. Do you still have this filter?
I bought this filter BECAUSE of this video. So if anyone thinks you're doing wrong by filter companies they're bonkers. I have it set up slightly differently. I prefer a mixed media types, that's just me, and I found the flow really strong with the coarser foams, so I switched to a medium and fine. It doesn't seem to clog and I just squeeze them out in waste tank water monthly or so. I may cover up the top most water slits at a later date, I haven't decided yet. Thank you for doing all these filter 'Pimpings'. I find them all interesting.
So glad I found this. I’m just getting in to fish keeping and this filter came with the tank I’ve just bought so was keen to find out a bit more about it. Yours is the only video I’ve found on TH-cam that fully details all its features. Great job, thanks!
All my tanks use fluvel filters, but I've had so much trouble with them so now I have this filter. So far so good. It is not loud at all. Yes the flow is brilliant
I have a OF hydra 20 the way the filter works is it has the coarse sponge then has the filter media in the middle of it which then has a Carbon cartridge. Can I then put a medium pad above the coarse pad before the Cartridge
Hello Richard, Im from belgium and i have a dennerle nano cornerfilter xl. And im wondering how you would pimp it. I have a 60 liter dennerle nano cube tank. Kind regards tommy
Looks like the Aquaflow 200 with slightly stronger pump and an extension box. I think I know why they put the rings first. They want to combine biological filtration with the mechanical effect of ceramic rings.
Yes, it would be the last stage of mechanical filtration to catch the fine muck before water hits the biological media. Whether you use a fine foam, fine pad or filter wool it all does the same job.
Hi! I’m veeery new to this but I’m thinking of diy a filter that’s very similar to tetra whisper 10i which has its pump on the bottom with the water trickling out from the top... I only have a 6 gallon tank so I thought I probably need a 60 gph pump but didn’t know if I need to go higher since the pump would be pushing water up through sponge and medía vs sucking it from the top like the filter in this video? Thank you!
Are you more impressed with this filter compared to the Ziss filter ? Love these Pimp my Filter videos............ thanks for taking the time and keep them coming !!
Ziss filter is a very nice looking moving bed which is great for ammonia and nitrite removal but offers a fraction of the surface area for bacteria compared to this filter featured here how it is set up. I have one of the Ziss filters (bought about 8 months ago) but haven't got round to filming it yet as is the case with about a dozen other filters I have here .....aaarrrggghhh...give me editing time, that's all I want for christmas, lol
@@pondguru Can you imagine if someone manufactured an internal moving bed filter that passed the water through a 3rd compartment that was filled with Biohome media before being ejected back into the tank. Ah bliss! In fact, maybe I'll make one. That's my goal for 2019 guys. To make a prototype and to get Richard to review it! The Payten 100. Coming in Q4 2019!
@@JaymesPayten Sounds good, man. I designed a modular system many years ago which had pods you could swap around and drive either with air or a pump but never go round to making it. However I've got another idea going through the patent process which has nothing to do with tanks or filters so when (if) the check comes back clear I'll get prototypes made and show that product on TH-cam.
@@pondguru What if you dumped the moving bed media out of the Ziss filter and replaced it with Biogravel filled to the top? I understand that it would cease to work as a moving bed but the Ziss filter is quite a big compartment for filter media.
Hello, I hope you're still reading your comments! I have a problem with a fungus infection, my two black moors have white cottony things on their tails. I do water changes weekly, I have the same filter. I don't want them to suffer so I bought medicine, it says I have to remove carbon and zeolite filter media, but I've read and watches videos of people saying to not remove the filter as it's going to kill the good bacteria. I'd really use some help as I'm not experienced with that, but I really want the best for my fish! After I remove it, how long do I keep it this way, or can I return it back as soon as I'm done with the dose. :( Thanks.
Hello, I have a question about another filter. I saw your pimp on JBL Cristalprofi e900 and now i'm wondering how you would setup the smaller version e700. It only has 2 media trays and the top 'prefilter' tray. I think it will not hold as much filtration media if I set it up like you did on your e900 (bottom tray with sponges) because top 'prefilter' tray is quite smaller. Thank you for your response! I love your 'Pimp my filter' videos and just discovered your chanel a few days ago.
Hey Richard, fantastic video and this filter is one I'll be investing in soon. One question I have; in your pimped out version, where would you place some Granulated Carbon if you did want to include it as part of your setup? Or do you not think it's worth it? Another question, how often would you advise replacing the sponges? I know a good clean in the tank's water every month or so is good, but when should you look at putting in new sponge? Thanks for your work and help.
(my other channel) Unless you have a problem with stained water from bogwood, almond leaves or peat or you are mopping up treatments after a course of fish treatment you won't need carbon. Carbon would always be last in the filter since it is a chemical treatment. Mechanical, Biological, Chemical. With regard to the sponges they would be replaced when they were either shrunken, 'floppy' or they started to break up - that could be every 12-18 months depending on the quality of the foams used and the amount of times they are cleaned. Since the fine pad gets too clogged to clean it would just be replaced as and when it is clogged up. Best of luck with the tank.
@@ThousandYardStare Thanks Richard. You might be able to help with another (quite significant problem) I'm having. I have a very new 25L planted tank and unfortunately did not cycle properly before adding 6 pygmy cories (that was my inexperience, as it's my first tank, coupled with some incorrect advise given to me). I have been doing everything I can to get rid of the incredibly high ammonia present in the water (around 10ppm). I've done a big water change, reduced food massively, cleaned out everything I could, added Tetra Safestart and now Tetra FilterActive for past two days, no change in the tests. I tested the tap water, no ammonia there. I'm at my wits end and am worried to death that the little guys are not going to last long. (Though their behaviour is thankfully still normal) There's so much clashing information about best practice online that I'm lost as to what I should do next. Something that I can't do is transfer or put the fish elsewhere, so whatever I do will have to involve leaving the fish in there. (Or potentially in a transfer bag for abit whilst filling the tank again) Here's my plan, do you think this is right or if I should do something else? I want to purchase this filter along with the pimped out add-ons you've suggested, along with the Gel Filter Starter Balls (I currently have the Aqua Internal 100 filter, which had to be replaced (impeller broke) in its entirety 5 days in, due to the recommendation of staff at my LFS, which at the time I didn't realise how bad that was with the filter media disappearing overnight). Should I do an 80% water change using Tetra AquaSafe to dechlorinate, then put the Gel Filter Ball in after 24 hours, or should I put the Gel Ball in straight away? And will the incredibly high ammonia significantly impact the new bacteria from establishing itself? I just have no idea what to do. Any help is appreciated mate.
@@danielhaywood9695 Plentiful ammonia will feed the bacteria but if there is not enough bacteria living in the system you will have problems. Ideally you'd have a decent sized filter - most internal filters are crap which is why the guys who do aquascaped tanks which look beautiful always use external filters, even on 'small' tanks. The gel filter balls work really quickly to cope with ammonia and nitrate which is why I give them away with the Biohome filter media. If you haven't got enough places for bacteria to live in the system then the ammonia and nitrite will be high (due to lack of bacteria). It sounds like the bacteria just needs somewhere to live. If you get a decent filter like the APS HOB-500: geni.us/Q4AI37t then you can fit a nation of media into it (1kg Biogravel) which will ensure that the tank never has any problems with water quality. Hopefully you can fit such a filter onto your tank.
It's such a shame that even in 2k19, with all the information provided by our Guru on ideal filter arrangements that not more filters are coming out with said arrangements :(
You would think that the companies that actually manufacture filters would know which way round to add their own filter media! Thank goodness for people like Richard who spend their time educating us, and hopefully the filtration manufacturers, although judging by the amount of filters in the market with useless filter configurations, I doubt he's getting through to them, which is a shame.
Jaymes Payten they come set up the way they do as it means you will have to buy more foams and sponges more often due to them getting clogged which will make them more money. They way Richard sets them up means you get maximum life out your sponges and foams
Hi mate where do you buy the sheets of course and fine foam you used to pimp this pump,? I already have this pump and have been using it as per the manufacturers directions and what like to follow your advice. Cheers Gary, Sunderland.
If someone sends one up I'll take a look no problem but the design of it seems to be a bit of a disaster. As far as I can see it is just a simple sponge foam and intakes for water are right up the front of the sections.
Okay, thanks for answer! I was also wondering if it was a good filter or not.. But you have already answered that. I got a fluval 406 for my 180L and its of course set up, like you showed in a video :)
Hi Richard, I've been following your channel for a while now and I appreciate very much all the valuable information you share in your videos. I have "pimped my filter" for my 2 tanks following your instructions, one of them using a Fluval 206 set up the way you recommended and using Biohome Ultimate, the other a smaller "all in one cube" also with Biohome. I couldn't be happier with the results, what a difference! I enjoy that your videos always present educated information, which is conveyed in a logical, coherent and well articulated yet simple manner. I will soon set up a new 44 gal (166.5 L) fully planted tank and I want to do the same thing. Could you recommend a good filter (available in the US) for me to pimp, which would allow me to achieve a full cycle in a tank this size? I would be greatly appreciated. Diego
If you're happy with the 206 then the next size up would be fine for a well planted community tank of 166 litres as it holds 2kg biohome ultimate in top 2 trays giving you more than enough for size of tank and stock. If the intended fish species need a higher flow or may grow quite big then the 406 would be the way to go as it has the extra tray so would take 3kg.
@@pondguru thank you Richard. I may justdo that. I was thinking about an Oase canister because of the convenience of the included heater, but don't know anything about Pase or how they compare with the Fluvals, never had one or know anybody who does.
Really informative vid thanks. I'm a newbie to tropical fish and currently have a 20 ltr tank and thinking of upgrading to a 50 ltr would this filter be ok for that size or too overkill ? I had read that you can't over filtrate but thought I'd ask the experts. My current set has the std superfish aquaflow 100 but whilst my ammonia and nitrites are good my nitrates tend to be high even changing 2-3 ltrs each week Also everything shown here to modify the 300 can I get from filterpro had a look but not quite sure which media to pick as there's a few thanks in advance Richard.
(my other channel) Unfortunately not but it is extremely small and probably not worth upgrading - even the filter shown here is hardly big enough to filter much water or hold much media.
I’m trying to gain some knowledge before buying my first salt water tank. The tank I’m looking at is a 40 litre and comes with this particular filter. Is this appropriate for 2 clown fish? As Iv stated I’m just looking for some knowledge. Any advice is appreciated
That sounds way too small for a 40 litre saltwater tank as most would have built in back sumps or small external canister filters. It may be worth looking at the new filter from All Pond Solutions as it hangs on the back but is a canister filter which holds 1.2kg of biogravel. I have just had one delivered so that's how I know how much it will hold but haven't had a chance to shoot the video on it yet. Although instructions and box say nothing about saltwater the APS site mentions that it is suitable for fresh and salt water. It is a crazy low price on amazon: geni.us/Q4AI37t
Great video 👍 I'm sure the company's do this on purpose to make people buy replacement parts faster. I can't see any other reason for doing it that way. 😆
Hello Pondguru, first off i like youre video's, i can realy learn a lot of them. I have 2 questions tho: 1. Don't you ever use a prefilter so you can use all youre filter buckets with biological media, just use one of those white filter cotton peices at the bottom in youre filter and that's it. 2e question is most people get no mutch K/N03 but i have a fast decrease of KNO3 while the Po4 stays high witch causes algea. Then biohome media isn't realy suited for me or is it?
The pre-filter is a decent idea but I tend to show filters without that fitted in the videos as many people don't have space for anything extra or don't want a reduction in flow. Although I featured the booster filter in the video 'Why your filter is too small and not cycled' I still should do a video specifically on pre-filters some time as they can be very effective.
@@pondguru TThanks for you're reply. A video with prefilters would be very interesting, especially watt they can handle as they often don't show that. I mean if you have a 2000ltr pump and the prefilter can only handle 800 ltr that's a huge waist + they always test filters without any media in it. I always buy filters/pumps with way to mutch power and then add a prefilter. The results are very good, I only have to clean my pump a bit 6 x per year at most and you have 1 extra bucket to fill. If you ceap you're prefilter clean afcourse. But would be very interesting to see you test some of the main prefilters!
@@pondguru What I mean is that in my case I have a aquascape aquarium so you need No3 and Po4 for you're plants. I learned that they need to be in balance so in my case that means after water change I measure the levels like No3 po4 Kh and so on. And set it to No3 20 ppm and po4 2ppm. And now comes the problem, almost on every package of bio media I buy or see it breaks down No3, Biohome ass well as far is I understand. So that means after a few days 2/4 almost all you're No3 is gone witch leaves you with a high level of Po4 witch causes algae problems. But on the other hand you can't run a proper aquarium without bio media in you're filter. So where most people want to get the nitrate low, I need it for my plants.
@@redwhitearmyutreg7285 I haven't heard of any problems associated with phosphate when using biohome and plants grow fine too as long as their feeding is supplemented as it would be in a planted tank. However if plants were never fed and the filter was processing all the nitrate then growth would suffer on more delicate species.
I wonder how some filter manufacturers come to offer such "grotten bad" waterways. making slots in the filter container clean where the biological medium is in it makes the material unnecessarily foul fast ...: o ( then no biohome or biogravel will help!
I really enjoy all your videos you really narrow it down to simple and not so many gadgets which I. did. Can you do. videos on ich on. fish . I seem to get rid of them that I. put them back in the tank and it starts again I change the water to clean the tank to do. the media like you show on the U-tub I have one guy I just can't seem. to get in better his skin clears up. Then it starts all over again I know this is not a. comment but I don't know if you have an email site thanks hopefully you could do show
I did a video ages ago about that very subject so here is the link: th-cam.com/video/iszeYQGZ9zw/w-d-xo.html The most important thing is to maintain good water quality and filtration is a massive part of that so always ensure you have a suitably sized well set up filter. Generally the spots of ich manifest when fish are not happy when water isn't good for them but sometimes it can be introduced from infected fish.
Strange innit, you'd thing the filter manufacturer would know something or two about filtration. Alass, this is not the first time I seen media in the wrong places. :((
I wish I was somewhere close to Shearer as far as footballing talent goes but I have two left feet attached to toddler's legs. However, my son is awesome at football but he's not going bald like me or Shearer ...... yet ....
Aqua-Flow 300 (Amazon): geni.us/FBb6
Aqua-Flow 300 (Ebay): ebay.to/2REvdg2
(Check local stores too - it is quite a common filter)
This seems to be a great little filter and the online reviews would seem to back up my findings in this video.
It is extremely cheap too.
Although it is an internal filter it has a decent amount of space for foams and media as opposed to most other designs which rely on cartridge systems. Cartridges are sold for this filter but you do not need them since it is so easy to swap internal parts to function very efficiently.
It would make a good back-up filter for a large tank or a good main filter for a tank of between 50-100 litres / 13-26 US gallons) depending on stock. As the amount of media is limited by the size of filter I wouldn't say you'd achieve full cycle using this filter unless the tank was under 50 litres, then the reasonably high flow (540 lph) may be an issue depending on fish species but flow is adjustable.
Media used in this video is 'Biogravel' which is a highly porous gravel made from same materials as 'Biohome' - media available here: www.filterpro.co.uk
The goal with any filter is to try and achieve FULL CYCLE filtration which is the reduction in ammonia, nitrite AND nitrate - if you look anywhere online you'll see people tell you that the nitrogen cycle in an aquarium ends with the production of nitrate which is removed by regular (often large) water changes.
That is HALF the cycle and is done by AEROBIC bacteria which favors highly oxygenated conditions and is very easy to grow on any surface.
The last part of the cycle (reduction in nitrate) is completed by ANAEROBIC bacteria which favors an environment which is very low or devoid of oxygen. It takes filter media with a very specific internal structure to support both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria to allow for full cycle filtration but a suitably sized, well set up filter, will allow the full cycle to complete which results in more stable water conditions and less water changes (typically 10% every 1-2 weeks). Canister filters will generally offer the best provision for filter media but even internals can be significantly improved to boost water quality and fish health.
If anyone tells you that a full cycle cannot be achieved and that nitrate is only reduced by plants or water changes they are either misinformed (repeating old information) or intentionally lying to maintain the ignorance of their followers or customers. A full cycle is entirely natural - we just need suitably sized, well set up filters to achieve that goal.
The following videos will be useful to anyone interested in learning more about filtration, bacteria and making the conditions for your fish as good as possible:
Sizing a canister properly and filter set up: goo.gl/om19un
Looking INSIDE different filter media: goo.gl/hZWS6c
Bacteria and filter media: goo.gl/123gAF
How to clean an aquarium: goo.gl/bPMhvh
Aquarium tips / filtration playlist: goo.gl/pXgqVj
Check out my channel for hundreds of videos on a wide range of my hobbies - many of the videos have educational content so if you have enjoyed any give them the thumbs up and share anywhere you think others may benefit from viewing.
This channel is purely a hobby for me so I will never ask viewers to donate money for any of my projects or charge anyone for information - information should be shared freely and I certainly don't consider myself an 'expert' in anything I pursue as a hobby so please do your own research, never accept anything as 'fact', reject anyone claiming to be some sort of authority or 'expert' and make your own minds up about anything you wish to study.
We all are on a long path of learning.........
If you've enjoyed this video please check out the playlists on my channel for hundreds more - on a variety of subjects.
See you next time.
Pondguru
FILMING EQUIPMENT:
Panasonic HC-VX870 HD camcorder geni.us/3UwE
+Rode stereo microphone: geni.us/4OL
+Rode 'deadcat' mic cover: geni.us/1pmn
JVC Everio quad proof HD camcorder: geni.us/e09e
+Rode 'deadcat' mic cover (opened up and held between tripod and camera base) geni.us/dee24
Zomei Z666 tripod: geni.us/1a1af3
Manfrotto MTPIXI-B PIXI mini tripod: geni.us/87f7
Thank you so much for these videos! I finally purchased your pond pads for my filters. They were already working much better just by changing the type and order of my media, and now they are amazing! I just went on vacation and my canister filter went 4 weeks without being cleaned. My pads caught what they should, the worst of the muck went below the bottom tray, and my bio filtration was still clean! I have an overstocked 40 gallon tank with 4 large gold fish (the smallest is 8"), an adult male red Eared Slider, and a 9" Pleco. I use an internal filter just to polish the water and the canister for the heavy work. Thank you so much for all of your great advice! My canister is a Marlin and my internal is a Cascade 600.
Anyone tested the noise/vibration level of the 300 or 200? I have heard mixed reports, from great to not great. That's the only thing missing from these outstanding Pondguru reviews - in-water testing, including noise/vibration assessment.
I running the 200 for two days now. It's frickin loud... louder than a fridge. Hopefully it'll settle
I got 300, loud as fuck replacing asap
I have the 300 just set it up and it's quiet as a mouse, just a very low hum, perhaps they have replaced the motor since this review but my 300 is almost silent
@@privateportall Mine seems to vibrate against the glass when I change the filter. It started very silent, after a couple hours it made some more noise. Than after a day it was silent again. Do you still have this filter?
I bought this filter BECAUSE of this video. So if anyone thinks you're doing wrong by filter companies they're bonkers.
I have it set up slightly differently. I prefer a mixed media types, that's just me, and I found the flow really strong with the coarser foams, so I switched to a medium and fine. It doesn't seem to clog and I just squeeze them out in waste tank water monthly or so.
I may cover up the top most water slits at a later date, I haven't decided yet.
Thank you for doing all these filter 'Pimpings'. I find them all interesting.
Nice one - I'm glad it's working well for you and thanks for watching.
So glad I found this. I’m just getting in to fish keeping and this filter came with the tank I’ve just bought so was keen to find out a bit more about it. Yours is the only video I’ve found on TH-cam that fully details all its features. Great job, thanks!
Qq
Looking forward to an update on the giant filter.
Hi there richard,
A great video, thanks for sharing and best regards from New Zealand.
Anybody know if the aquaflow 300 filter will fit the aquaflow 200 pump?
If you didn't use the spray bar could small fish get stuck in the hole?
All my tanks use fluvel filters, but I've had so much trouble with them so now I have this filter. So far so good. It is not loud at all. Yes the flow is brilliant
It is a very simple filter but it definitely does the job.
I have one similar but no bottom holder for the bio rings. Not sure where to put them now. My filter sits in a protective case in the tank.
I have a OF hydra 20 the way the filter works is it has the coarse sponge then has the filter media in the middle of it which then has a Carbon cartridge. Can I then put a medium pad above the coarse pad before the Cartridge
Is biogravel good in an under gravel filter, I imagine it would be
How do most people like the spray bars? I don’t see them very often in people’s fish tanks. I don’t really like them tbh
How quiet it is ?
Hello Richard,
Im from belgium and i have a dennerle nano cornerfilter xl. And im wondering how you would pimp it. I have a 60 liter dennerle nano cube tank. Kind regards tommy
Now that's going to work spot on now. companies have some funny ways of loading filters.
Looks like the Aquaflow 200 with slightly stronger pump and an extension box.
I think I know why they put the rings first. They want to combine biological filtration with the mechanical effect of ceramic rings.
Can this be done with 200 version as it's a bit smaller
Yes
Can I also add filter wool? And in what order?
Yes, it would be the last stage of mechanical filtration to catch the fine muck before water hits the biological media.
Whether you use a fine foam, fine pad or filter wool it all does the same job.
hello which biological filter media do you recommend for our rio 260l
Could you pimp a sunsun 300 series filter?
Hi, could you link to the needed parts on your shop , to do this
Hi! I’m veeery new to this but I’m thinking of diy a filter that’s very similar to tetra whisper 10i which has its pump on the bottom with the water trickling out from the top... I only have a 6 gallon tank so I thought I probably need a 60 gph pump but didn’t know if I need to go higher since the pump would be pushing water up through sponge and medía vs sucking it from the top like the filter in this video? Thank you!
Sir how to clean the debris in gravels any filter or any way to clean them
Vacuum them out during a water change
Are you more impressed with this filter compared to the Ziss filter ? Love these Pimp my Filter videos............ thanks for taking the time and keep them coming !!
Ziss filter is a very nice looking moving bed which is great for ammonia and nitrite removal but offers a fraction of the surface area for bacteria compared to this filter featured here how it is set up. I have one of the Ziss filters (bought about 8 months ago) but haven't got round to filming it yet as is the case with about a dozen other filters I have here .....aaarrrggghhh...give me editing time, that's all I want for christmas, lol
@@pondguru Can you imagine if someone manufactured an internal moving bed filter that passed the water through a 3rd compartment that was filled with Biohome media before being ejected back into the tank.
Ah bliss!
In fact, maybe I'll make one. That's my goal for 2019 guys. To make a prototype and to get Richard to review it!
The Payten 100. Coming in Q4 2019!
@@JaymesPayten Sounds good, man. I designed a modular system many years ago which had pods you could swap around and drive either with air or a pump but never go round to making it. However I've got another idea going through the patent process which has nothing to do with tanks or filters so when (if) the check comes back clear I'll get prototypes made and show that product on TH-cam.
@@pondguru Can't wait to see this mystery product.
@@pondguru What if you dumped the moving bed media out of the Ziss filter and replaced it with Biogravel filled to the top? I understand that it would cease to work as a moving bed but the Ziss filter is quite a big compartment for filter media.
Hello, I hope you're still reading your comments! I have a problem with a fungus infection, my two black moors have white cottony things on their tails. I do water changes weekly, I have the same filter. I don't want them to suffer so I bought medicine, it says I have to remove carbon and zeolite filter media, but I've read and watches videos of people saying to not remove the filter as it's going to kill the good bacteria. I'd really use some help as I'm not experienced with that, but I really want the best for my fish! After I remove it, how long do I keep it this way, or can I return it back as soon as I'm done with the dose. :( Thanks.
richard what's become of dramatic aquatics?
Hello, I have a question about another filter. I saw your pimp on JBL Cristalprofi e900 and now i'm wondering how you would setup the smaller version e700. It only has 2 media trays and the top 'prefilter' tray. I think it will not hold as much filtration media if I set it up like you did on your e900 (bottom tray with sponges) because top 'prefilter' tray is quite smaller.
Thank you for your response!
I love your 'Pimp my filter' videos and just discovered your chanel a few days ago.
Hi Richard. Do you think shrimp will be okay with the aquaflow 300 of I reverse the media as you stated in the video? Cheers.
Hey Richard, fantastic video and this filter is one I'll be investing in soon. One question I have; in your pimped out version, where would you place some Granulated Carbon if you did want to include it as part of your setup? Or do you not think it's worth it? Another question, how often would you advise replacing the sponges? I know a good clean in the tank's water every month or so is good, but when should you look at putting in new sponge? Thanks for your work and help.
(my other channel) Unless you have a problem with stained water from bogwood, almond leaves or peat or you are mopping up treatments after a course of fish treatment you won't need carbon.
Carbon would always be last in the filter since it is a chemical treatment.
Mechanical, Biological, Chemical.
With regard to the sponges they would be replaced when they were either shrunken, 'floppy' or they started to break up - that could be every 12-18 months depending on the quality of the foams used and the amount of times they are cleaned.
Since the fine pad gets too clogged to clean it would just be replaced as and when it is clogged up.
Best of luck with the tank.
@@ThousandYardStare Thanks Richard. You might be able to help with another (quite significant problem) I'm having. I have a very new 25L planted tank and unfortunately did not cycle properly before adding 6 pygmy cories (that was my inexperience, as it's my first tank, coupled with some incorrect advise given to me). I have been doing everything I can to get rid of the incredibly high ammonia present in the water (around 10ppm). I've done a big water change, reduced food massively, cleaned out everything I could, added Tetra Safestart and now Tetra FilterActive for past two days, no change in the tests. I tested the tap water, no ammonia there. I'm at my wits end and am worried to death that the little guys are not going to last long. (Though their behaviour is thankfully still normal) There's so much clashing information about best practice online that I'm lost as to what I should do next.
Something that I can't do is transfer or put the fish elsewhere, so whatever I do will have to involve leaving the fish in there. (Or potentially in a transfer bag for abit whilst filling the tank again) Here's my plan, do you think this is right or if I should do something else? I want to purchase this filter along with the pimped out add-ons you've suggested, along with the Gel Filter Starter Balls (I currently have the Aqua Internal 100 filter, which had to be replaced (impeller broke) in its entirety 5 days in, due to the recommendation of staff at my LFS, which at the time I didn't realise how bad that was with the filter media disappearing overnight). Should I do an 80% water change using Tetra AquaSafe to dechlorinate, then put the Gel Filter Ball in after 24 hours, or should I put the Gel Ball in straight away? And will the incredibly high ammonia significantly impact the new bacteria from establishing itself? I just have no idea what to do. Any help is appreciated mate.
@@danielhaywood9695 Plentiful ammonia will feed the bacteria but if there is not enough bacteria living in the system you will have problems. Ideally you'd have a decent sized filter - most internal filters are crap which is why the guys who do aquascaped tanks which look beautiful always use external filters, even on 'small' tanks.
The gel filter balls work really quickly to cope with ammonia and nitrate which is why I give them away with the Biohome filter media.
If you haven't got enough places for bacteria to live in the system then the ammonia and nitrite will be high (due to lack of bacteria).
It sounds like the bacteria just needs somewhere to live.
If you get a decent filter like the APS HOB-500: geni.us/Q4AI37t then you can fit a nation of media into it (1kg Biogravel) which will ensure that the tank never has any problems with water quality.
Hopefully you can fit such a filter onto your tank.
That is a great design for a small filter allowing media of choice. Let's get away from those cartridge type filters.
It's such a shame that even in 2k19, with all the information provided by our Guru on ideal filter arrangements that not more filters are coming out with said arrangements :(
You would think that the companies that actually manufacture filters would know which way round to add their own filter media!
Thank goodness for people like Richard who spend their time educating us, and hopefully the filtration manufacturers, although judging by the amount of filters in the market with useless filter configurations, I doubt he's getting through to them, which is a shame.
@@JaymesPayten It is, especially ones like this Aquaflow 300.
Jaymes Payten they come set up the way they do as it means you will have to buy more foams and sponges more often due to them getting clogged which will make them more money. They way Richard sets them up means you get maximum life out your sponges and foams
Hi mate where do you buy the sheets of course and fine foam you used to pimp this pump,? I already have this pump and have been using it as per the manufacturers directions and what like to follow your advice. Cheers Gary, Sunderland.
Awesome video once again!
Could you maybe make a video on Eheim 2252 Powerline XL?
Keep it up.
If someone sends one up I'll take a look no problem but the design of it seems to be a bit of a disaster. As far as I can see it is just a simple sponge foam and intakes for water are right up the front of the sections.
Okay, thanks for answer! I was also wondering if it was a good filter or not.. But you have already answered that. I got a fluval 406 for my 180L and its of course set up, like you showed in a video :)
@@SuperBaloa Sounds good to me - nice one.
Hi Richard, I've been following your channel for a while now and I appreciate very much all the valuable information you share in your videos. I have "pimped my filter" for my 2 tanks following your instructions, one of them using a Fluval 206 set up the way you recommended and using Biohome Ultimate, the other a smaller "all in one cube" also with Biohome. I couldn't be happier with the results, what a difference!
I enjoy that your videos always present educated information, which is conveyed in a logical, coherent and well articulated yet simple manner.
I will soon set up a new 44 gal (166.5 L) fully planted tank and I want to do the same thing. Could you recommend a good filter (available in the US) for me to pimp, which would allow me to achieve a full cycle in a tank this size? I would be greatly appreciated.
Diego
If you're happy with the 206 then the next size up would be fine for a well planted community tank of 166 litres as it holds 2kg biohome ultimate in top 2 trays giving you more than enough for size of tank and stock. If the intended fish species need a higher flow or may grow quite big then the 406 would be the way to go as it has the extra tray so would take 3kg.
@@pondguru thank you Richard. I may justdo that. I was thinking about an Oase canister because of the convenience of the included heater, but don't know anything about Pase or how they compare with the Fluvals, never had one or know anybody who does.
Will this still be ok as there is no carbon (chemical ) filter now if changed like the video
Yes filters run fine without carbon but it is still useful if you need to draw in any residual fish treatment or colour from bogwood.
Really informative vid thanks.
I'm a newbie to tropical fish and currently have a 20 ltr tank and thinking of upgrading to a 50 ltr would this filter be ok for that size or too overkill ? I had read that you can't over filtrate but thought I'd ask the experts. My current set has the std superfish aquaflow 100 but whilst my ammonia and nitrites are good my nitrates tend to be high even changing 2-3 ltrs each week
Also everything shown here to modify the 300 can I get from filterpro had a look but not quite sure which media to pick as there's a few thanks in advance Richard.
Do you have any experience with the 100 series?
(my other channel) Unfortunately not but it is extremely small and probably not worth upgrading - even the filter shown here is hardly big enough to filter much water or hold much media.
@@ThousandYardStare thanks
I’m trying to gain some knowledge before buying my first salt water tank. The tank I’m looking at is a 40 litre and comes with this particular filter. Is this appropriate for 2 clown fish? As Iv stated I’m just looking for some knowledge. Any advice is appreciated
That sounds way too small for a 40 litre saltwater tank as most would have built in back sumps or small external canister filters. It may be worth looking at the new filter from All Pond Solutions as it hangs on the back but is a canister filter which holds 1.2kg of biogravel. I have just had one delivered so that's how I know how much it will hold but haven't had a chance to shoot the video on it yet. Although instructions and box say nothing about saltwater the APS site mentions that it is suitable for fresh and salt water. It is a crazy low price on amazon: geni.us/Q4AI37t
Great video 👍 I'm sure the company's do this on purpose to make people buy replacement parts faster. I can't see any other reason for doing it that way. 😆
Hello Pondguru, first off i like youre video's, i can realy learn a lot of them.
I have 2 questions tho:
1. Don't you ever use a prefilter so you can use all youre filter buckets with biological media, just use one of those white filter cotton peices at the bottom in youre filter and that's it.
2e question is most people get no mutch K/N03 but i have a fast decrease of KNO3 while the Po4 stays high witch causes algea.
Then biohome media isn't realy suited for me or is it?
The pre-filter is a decent idea but I tend to show filters without that fitted in the videos as many people don't have space for anything extra or don't want a reduction in flow. Although I featured the booster filter in the video 'Why your filter is too small and not cycled' I still should do a video specifically on pre-filters some time as they can be very effective.
Not sure what you are asking in second question.
@@pondguru TThanks for you're reply. A video with prefilters would be very interesting, especially watt they can handle as they often don't show that. I mean if you have a 2000ltr pump and the prefilter can only handle 800 ltr that's a huge waist + they always test filters without any media in it. I always buy filters/pumps with way to mutch power and then add a prefilter. The results are very good, I only have to clean my pump a bit 6 x per year at most and you have 1 extra bucket to fill. If you ceap you're prefilter clean afcourse. But would be very interesting to see you test some of the main prefilters!
@@pondguru What I mean is that in my case I have a aquascape aquarium so you need No3 and Po4 for you're plants. I learned that they need to be in balance so in my case that means after water change I measure the levels like No3 po4 Kh and so on. And set it to No3 20 ppm and po4 2ppm. And now comes the problem, almost on every package of bio media I buy or see it breaks down No3, Biohome ass well as far is I understand. So that means after a few days 2/4 almost all you're No3 is gone witch leaves you with a high level of Po4 witch causes algae problems. But on the other hand you can't run a proper aquarium without bio media in you're filter. So where most people want to get the nitrate low, I need it for my plants.
@@redwhitearmyutreg7285 I haven't heard of any problems associated with phosphate when using biohome and plants grow fine too as long as their feeding is supplemented as it would be in a planted tank. However if plants were never fed and the filter was processing all the nitrate then growth would suffer on more delicate species.
Very nice filter.
hi can you pimp a super fish aqua flow 100 cheers
I wonder how some filter manufacturers come to offer such "grotten bad" waterways. making slots in the filter container clean where the biological medium is in it makes the material unnecessarily foul fast ...: o (
then no biohome or biogravel will help!
I really enjoy all your videos you really narrow it down to simple and not so many gadgets which I. did. Can you do. videos on ich on. fish . I seem to get rid of them that I. put them back in the tank and it starts again I change the water to clean the tank to do. the media like you show on the U-tub I have one guy I just can't seem. to get in better his skin clears up. Then it starts all over again I know this is not a. comment but I don't know if you have an email site thanks hopefully you could do show
I did a video ages ago about that very subject so here is the link: th-cam.com/video/iszeYQGZ9zw/w-d-xo.html
The most important thing is to maintain good water quality and filtration is a massive part of that so always ensure you have a suitably sized well set up filter. Generally the spots of ich manifest when fish are not happy when water isn't good for them but sometimes it can be introduced from infected fish.
Very helpful, glad I watched this!
Thank you!
No worries and thanks for watching.
PERFECT VIDEO SIR
I was hoping you might comment on what use cases there would be for this filter? Nano tank? 10 Gallon? 20 Gallon?
Lmao @ the last few seconds mate!
Just popped in to say hi hope everyone is well.😉
Hows the foot ?
Touchwood it’s all good mate
Looks great!
another awesome pimp my filter Richard
Helps to have the mic on lol ;)
There's lots of new mini canister filters made these days, these internal filters are just no match anyway you look at it
Strange innit, you'd thing the filter manufacturer would know something or two about filtration. Alass, this is not the first time I seen media in the wrong places. :((
Another great pimp out filter. Thanks, Richerd
I have this filter and as it stands it's not the best, so I think I'll pimp it.
Alan shearer
I wish I was somewhere close to Shearer as far as footballing talent goes but I have two left feet attached to toddler's legs.
However, my son is awesome at football but he's not going bald like me or Shearer ...... yet ....
@@pondguru 😆🤣nice, i have used your filter tips, thanks! all the best to your sons pursuits
That filter is a noisy. I pulled out of my aquarium and forgot about. Cannot recomended this product !!!!!
Aye! I did a similar thing! Yours is better tho hahaha!