Fluval is GONE...

[JeffDubya]

Well, I finally did it. Before I started my aquarium in late May, I was told by skip that having a Fluval canister filter would cause me problems... and even if I took out all the filter material and replaced it with live rock rubble that the unit would be a freaking nitrate factory.

Well, I believe that five months later, all of those warnings seem to have come true. With the exception of my nitrates, all of my water test readings are excellent. Nitrates are high.

So I have been thinking about this for a while. Today, I added a surface skimmer box for my aqua-c, I took the plunge and pulled the sucker out. I will only lose 180 GPH, and my Fluval hoses are FULL of disgusting biological matter. I’m guessing that is the source of my nitrate problems.

So now, my circulation consists of two Aqua Clear 50 powerheads (270 GPH ea) and one Aqua Clear 20 (126 GPH) for a total of 666 GPH (x 22.97). I gotta admit, having a flow that is equal to the number of the beast is a little freaky, but what can I do about it?

I also have the Maxi-Jet 1200 (295 GPH) that is part of my protien skimmer. It adds flow, so I guess my total is more than 666 after all.

Anyhow, the Fluval is out, gone, history. I hope that I made the right decision. I’m pretty certain I did, but change (even when you know it’s right) can be be a scary thing.

 

[JeffDubya]

...and the previous post actually brings me to my next question.

So I have a relatively small tank, 29 gallons. For reasons to many to list here, that probably won't be changing anytime soon.

So, what I have been considering lately is putting together are a quarrantine tank, and also a prop tank (just small ones) to add to my enjoyment of the hobby. Especially interesting to me is the prop tank - I have a huge fascination about slicing and dicing and growing cool new stuff in the process. And since I don't have a fuge it seems to be the direction I should move in.

So how about that Fluval? Should I keep it and use it for a prop tank or quarrantine tank?? Or should I just get it to some freshwater fiend on eBay and be done with it?

 

[TimSchmidt]

If you only plan on using the fluval for the quaratine tank and then clean the filter after each use. (don't use the cannister constantly). You should be fine. For prop tank idea I would just sell the cannister and get a HOB or sump.