I've never had a "under gravel filter". How are the filters changed? Is there a need for a full water change each time?
1399518
In this tank, I do about a half-tank change once a month for my betta and it works fine. I have a snail in there that helps keep up with the algae and a moss ball to clean the water, too. There's not an actual filter in this one, just an air stone that I haven't needed to change.
1856742
The instructions state the filter should need to be changed every 6 Months. I bought mine in December 2012 and have not changed the filter yet. The unit has four lights that indicate when the filter needs to be changed. Mine is only on the second light indicator. I run the unit 24/7 on the second of four speeds, and wash the foam pre-filter every month.
27966
I have been cleaning the equipment each time the water starts tasting different. I change filters according to time, but if for some reason, the water continues to take differently, then I would replace it earlier. There isn't any type of indicator on the equipment, just your own site, taste, and time.
901813
I use filter floss and filled the bottom with ceramic rings,replacing the gravel.So to your answer, yes...
910135
Your water may have a high mineral content. Please be sure to always have water in the unit to prevent the filter from drying. Also, we recommend changing the wick filter every 4 weeks.
1675128
It doesn't need to go under the gravel but it is an eyesore if it isn't. Be careful if you do disturb your substrate depending on the size of your tank and the stocking levels it can give off a lot of ammonia.
180177
Clean the filter when you do a water change. Keep the water you got from the tank in a bucket. Clean the filter in that water
249637
A properly cycled tank should NEVER get a FULL water change. Once a week change 25% (50% when necessary)of the water with a gravel vaccuum and add a biological supplement like API Quick Start by pouring it over the filter. Change carbon every 4 weeks, biomax at 6 months, and foam at one year. Rinse Bio and foam (not at the same time) every 6 weeks when changing water.
2091925
The gravel will serve as your filter, the air flow will cause the water to naturally be sucked thru the gravel, the gravel will filter the dirt, you will need to clean this tank on a monthly basis if you have more than say 4 small tropical fish or 2 gold fish.
484984
I don't use a standard filter on these tanks (we have 5 betta fish). Instead, I use a disc bubbler under the gravel for aeration in each one. Love these tanks and their design, but not too happy with Amazon shipping b/c all of the tanks came with at least one divider broken or cracked. Also, don't like the solid glass lids. In fact, I was leaving those off entirely at first, but one of our bettas leaped out of the water while I was at work. I didn't even know a fish would or could do that! So hubby made me some wire mesh covers for them. But now I'm rambling, sorry. If you want to use a filter, I'd get the smallest one you can find. I think they do make filters for 5 gallons and under. Again, I haven't had to use a filter. I use a disc bubbler, and lay it on top of a cottony pouch that has charcoal in it. I have to change the charcoal out only about once every three months. Bettas are so clean and if you don't overfeed, their tanks stay nice for a long, long time. Love the idea and design of these tanks, that's why all my bettas are in them, but see preceding for adjustments we've made over time. Hope this helps.
1228548
I didn't use anything in mine, but I don't use anything when changing the filters either. I just let the tank fill up over the course of a few hours and then I allowed the whole thing to empty down the drain. I think I did this twice just to kind of rinse out the tank.
828323
The more filteration the better always. You want to turn over the water as much as you can. I have two on my 125 this one and a five stage i bought here and does great.
613919
It is hard to say. The old filters used to have an indicator which was a no-brainer. I usually change mine every few (3) months or so (when I remember). If you notice the water filters more slowly, I would suggest to change it.
635656
I'm not sure I understand your question. This is NOT an under gravel filter. It has two tubes that go over the top of the tank. They are not very big. The canister sits on the floor, shelf or cabinet under the tank.
662191
As far as I know the filters I purchase are the Aqueon small filters, they come in small, medium and, large but the small is what my package reads. It does not come with gravel, but it does come with the filter to get you started :)
2142958
I haven't been following a strict schedule for changing filters. My bride is my "canary in the coal mine" for determining when to change. When she says the water doesn't taste right, I change the filters. If that doesn't help, I change the membrane. I would expect, and this is an off the wall guess. If your TDS reading gets above 30, it might be time to change.
1164852
not hard to do. u need to turn off the water so there is no pressure. then unscrew one at a time. some water will drip out. i put a plastic bucket under it to catch the water. be alert to the rubber o rings. have an exta one on hand along with some silicone grease to put back on the o rings. do not have to really tighten them hand tighten and then say another half turn.the insides of my canisters were really dirty so i had to clean them out also. in total i spent say 2 hours to change the filters.