Canister filter for reef?

[jcro]

The canister filter debate can be found all over this site and YouTube. People use them and they work just fine, others feel like they’re nitrate factories, etc. I’m using a 7 series on 40 gallons; it’s a little difficult to clean which should be done regularly, but I don’t, because it’s a challenge. It’s just hard to not get water everywhere. I suppose it looks a little cleaner than 2 HOB’s, but you still have tubes coming over the back and into the tank. Also, I’m not super familiar with the FX6 but the other lines don’t have any surface skimming like your HOB’s may have. So for my model I had to buy an extra attachment to take care of the grease slick that forms on the top of the water. Just some things to keep in mind.

What was the attachment you used for surface skimming

 

[Freenow54]

Hey guys so I have a 75 gallon reef tank I’m currently thinking of doing changes like hanging my viparspectra lights so it looks more clean, my tank consists of mainly soft corals and LPS, I am currently running 2 hang in the back filters 110 aqua clear and 70 aquaclear which looks so bulky ,i am not running anything else no skimmers no sump, unfortunately my tank stand doesn’t have enough space for a sump as there is a brace in the middle, if not I would definitely do a sump ,so I’m thinking of switching the hang on the back filters to a canister, Fluval fx6 reason is because I’m tired of how the hang on the back filters look but what do you guys think ???

Use Fluval on all my tanks. Great choices for media, I change it all out every 4 weeks. The water flow is perfect for your corals assuming low flow, and across the top not blowing on the coral. I took out my powerheads now have 2 used still working, and three backup that I don't know what I am going to do with. Main reason is you cannot control the flow power. I thought of a potentiometer, but was advised not to because of the design of the motor. So also because I have had two joyous experiences being jolted, I am going to use external pumps with tubing However I also have a sump so I would make sure you pick the correct size. I don't know why you don't like skimmers. My one is HOB Eshopps for my 40. I would look at Octo for yours heard nothing but good about them, and have one in my sump for larger tank. Sorry for rambling

 

[FUNGI]

What was the attachment you used for surface skimming

two kinds...

IMO, the first one is the best as it allows you to control how much water gets in top versus bottom

 

[Freenow54]

I have had two canister filters and after cleaning and taking great care putting them back to gether right they always leak water . So, you take it apart again and put it together and you are good . So I have cleaned up alot of water using them . Just my 2 cents take it for what its worth.

it is totally possible to use canister filters ,many people had great success using them .
However I think that cleaning them would be a pain .

Cleaning not an issue. Easier than my sump but a lot of waste as I replace the media not rinse it. Mostly come in their own bags but I buy bulk just to save money. Like anything a learning curve and patience not to make a mess

 

[Freenow54]

two kinds...

IMO, the first one is the be

two kinds...

IMO, the first one is the best as it allows you to control how much water gets in top versus bottom

Interesting never seen that
st as it allows you to control how much water gets in top versus botto

 

[Freenow54]

Another point I have never had any leaks but do keep them in plastic tubs. The great thing about fluval ids the availability of parts

 

[Freenow54]

I have had two canister filters and after cleaning and taking great care putting them back to gether right they always leak water . So, you take it apart again and put it together and you are good . So I have cleaned up alot of water using them . Just my 2 cents take it for what its worth.

Where do they leak?

 

[FUNGI]

I'm running 3 FX6's.
The only weak point on this filter is the water outlet / water change connect at the bottom. Extremely weak. I dont even use them at all......otherwise, its O'Rings at the connectors, best to change every 2 years or so.....

 

[jcro]

two kinds...

IMO, the first one is the best as it allows you to control how much water gets in top versus bottom

Thanks