can you build a fuge out of a 5-10 gal. HOB filter.

[buddy25]

I have a small hob filter that is for a 5-10 gal. tank and was wanting to know is this to small to build a fuge for my 10 gal. odseassy tank .

 

[reefman23]

It is probably a little small to do anything usefull with it. Maybe consider plumbing a 5.5g or 10g tank externally. It would be a fairly simple DIY project that a few people here could help you with. PLus it would be a lot more beneficial and not much more expensive. Many people here have retro'd Aqua Clears into fuges, but unless you have one of the larger units, its not going to provide very much space for a fuge.

 

[Dickie52]

I agree with what reefman said.....

 

[skipm]

One of the Aquaclear 70s or 110s would be the best choice for a hang on to mod into a refugium, the other filters really don't have enough space to work with. Good luck, Skip

PS There is a thread in the DIY section on modding the model 70.

 

[incysor]

http://nanotank.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1307

http://nanotank.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1768

http://nanotank.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=285

Like skipm pointed out, the really small HOB filters will generally be too small to do much good. Luckily the larger ones aren't particularly expensive.

B

 

[buddy25]

Before i go any farther i would like to ask will it be a good filter for my tank because the filter that came with the tank is no more then a spong and some filter floss. so will the AC fuge idea be a better filter. :?:

 

[skipm]

There are a few different reasons to have a refugium. You may want to have additional water capacity, for this it is just a small amount more. If you want it for growing pods and for nutrient export (the macro algae in the refugium outcompeting with the microalgae [the bad stuff] for nitrients) it will work out fine. It really isn't designed to remove particulate matter but you can add an area to have a filter pad or sponge. If you go with the larger model you may also be able to place your heater, thermometer, and a bag of carbon in it as well. If you add either a pad or sponge though keep in mind that it will need to be cleaned a minimum of weekly in order to keep it from becoming a nitrate factory. HTH, Skip

 

[buddy25]

Ok thanks everyone i think that i will try the AC 70. I will let you know how it turns out.

 

[buddy25]

Well my fuge is up and runing and it look pretty good for my first try :razz: my water level is a little high but im not shure why. All i need now is some cheto.