i'm using a quick filter with a coarse foam prefilter instead of standard insert to increase biological filtration. is this combo worth using?
1406831
As long as you can put coarse form into the "cage", it's worth to try. Because there are many factors (e.g. power head, how many fishes you have...) that influenced the overall effects.
1014030
I've got a 306 for a 38 gallon, and the flow is way too strong, it moves all the sand and lighter items. I have to set it to half the flow. But I assume that one still benefits from the larger bio-filter.
1477508
I use it only with Seachem Matrix biological media. The carbon pad traps both large and small debris while clarifying the water, so there is no need for another floss/pad type media in my set up.
826077
There are many ways to modify the filter compartments on this unit. I do not know if there is a filter on the market that will replace this one but google some of the biocube DIY filter ideas. The floss filter is really not necessary in a healthy reef system anyway. When I have time the filter and bio balls will be pulled out and replaced with an algae turf scrubber setup and when necessary a small bit of filter floss to help clear cloudy water. Good luck!
777441
Depends on your water chemistry - has nothing to do with type of filter. It is very important to have your phosphate level at 100 or less if you want to keep the chemistry balanced.
81300
For a res tank, in the bottom basket i used Fluval bio max media, and in the second basket use pre-filter media. For the top basket, the best results i found were with 2 activated carbon bags. This combination will have your water crystal clear and odorless
943284
I use the filter because I don't like the sediment on the bottom of the coffee cup. I hope this helps you with your decision.
287895
To be honest with you, this seems to be a great filter media ... I have used it my bio-cube for years. But just to be sure I also use Algone, I change the packet once a week, it cheap insurance and I have had great luck with this combination.
81295
Also if money is an issue you can use regular algae scrub pads or a similar sponge from wherever. Won't work quite as well, but, in my experience, it did the job very well for a tenth of the price and similar results. I use the biomax media in the top two trays and premedia in the bottom. You can also get a polish filter to put in the bottom tray for best results, but just remember to remove it after a week or two as it gets clogged and will slow the water flow eventually (especially with RESs).
653540
I have personally. I took the very top white filter out, added a layer of charcoal and then regular filter floss and it worked fine.
2060850
You will be fine as a matter of fact you are sitting in the sweet spot for the filter already. The only reason maybe to get the booster is if you go with a pre filter, but that will still be overkill... Don't spend your dough when you don't need too!
1155948
No. The optional is for the charcoal prefilter. You should use the standard prefilter, if not using the optional charcoal one. It will make your main filter last longer.
309065
I have the fluval it is a great filter, so good that you go through the filter pads quicker than you might expect or they tell you. I guess I am just a marineland bio wheel fan.
2220590
I would use the 5 micron as the pre filter and the 1 micron as the post filter. This way you get the best filtration prior to filling your glass. I don't have a better answer than that because when I bought this product, I received 2 5micron filters.
2107625
You should add some ceramic rings in a tray and add some carbon in another tray. This should really help. There is a fiber sheet provided for each tray that works well, but I like rings and carbon to better clarify the water. You have the ability to set this filter up the way you prefer.
1556334
The unit uses a charcoal filter. I think you'd be fine to use the water additive.
1261259
I have a 380 gal pond and use the 1000 fishmates filter and a 1000 gph pump. The pump is a bit overkill but the filter is fine. You should have no problem with the combo you are asking about. I would not go bigger than the 800gph pump though.