need help on filter change

Discussion in 'Filters, Pumps, etc..' started by hottielover14, Aug 22, 2004.

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  1. hottielover14

    hottielover14 Torch Coral

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    I have a Fluval canister filter but i've seen this vortex diatom pressure filter. It's supposed to keep your aquarium clean. It says that it removes stuff as small as 1 diatom. Should i get rid of my fluval canister filter. I have in it the fluval filter pad to remove big items and i have some carbon, some phosphate remover, and some rings to grow bacteria on. What should i do.
     
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  3. reefman_MC

    reefman_MC Aiptasia Anemone

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    A diatom filter isn't something you use for constant filtration. It's just for when your water gets dirty, but I wouldn't suggest you use it on your reef. It's only a polisher filter and it uses diatomaceous earth powder to polish the water. Stick with the fluval.
     
  4. hottielover14

    hottielover14 Torch Coral

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    what would be the best stuff to put in my fluval.
     
  5. reefman_MC

    reefman_MC Aiptasia Anemone

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    I would take the filter pad out or clean it everyday. Once it collects junk and it starts decaying it will release nitrates into your water. Just add the carbon once a month and only keep it in one week. That's about all it lasts. So I would say keep the Phosphate removal stuff and keep the bacteria rings. What kind of Phosphate stuff are you using? The best is Phos-guard by Seachem and don't believe the stuff about it leaking aluminum in the water. That's just a rumor.
     
  6. hottielover14

    hottielover14 Torch Coral

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    i use the Hagen Phos-X phosphate remover. I've kept the same filter pad in for a month and still register 0 nitrates on my test kit.
     
  7. reefman_MC

    reefman_MC Aiptasia Anemone

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    Good on the nitrates, but I would suggest you go ahead and clean it.
     
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  9. hottielover14

    hottielover14 Torch Coral

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    is there something wrong w/ keeping carbon in longer than 1 week.
     
  10. Gresham

    Gresham Great Blue Whale

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    nope, nothing wrong. I keep mine in for around 2 to 3 weeks, thats about how long I notice the difference in my tank. Once the color starts going a bit green in my tank, I know its time for new GAC (carbon).
     
  11. reefman_MC

    reefman_MC Aiptasia Anemone

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    I normally take it out just to be safe. Once it sucks up all it can hold it releases everything back in the water.