Changing Filters

[Violinist]

I've been having some problems with my older bio-wheel filter and am thinking of swapping it out for one of the aqua clear models. The AC models seem to get very good reviews.

I was wondering if anyone who has one might be able to tell me if there is ample room to stuff my existing filter cartridge (or maybe pieces of it if I cut it apart) into the AC so the thing isn't bacteria-free when I hang it on the tank.

Thanks

edit to add: probably helpful to know somethign about the existing cartridge - it's a penguin filter and the cartridge is a sleeve containing carbon. About 4x6 inch in size.

 

[Tolak]

Given the same rated tank capacity between both filters it should fit, no problem. Just fold it to fit in the AC.

 

[Violinist]

Given the same rated tank capacity between both filters it should fit, no problem. Just fold it to fit in the AC.

Good deal. Thanks for the quick reply.

 

[bellmcc]

I have just done what you are talking about. As long as everything fits it's a perfect way to change filters.

 

[bitteraspects]

is it the blue cartridge or the white cartridge?

the white one (bio-bag) clips at the top of the plastic frame. you just pull the clips at the top, and the bag will slide off.
the blue cartridge (marineland model "B" replacement cartridge [i think])will need to actually be cut away from the plastic frame either with scissors or a knife.

in either case. discard the plastic frame, and put the rest in the back of the AquaClear filter in the media basket. the AquaClear filter will come with 3 types of media (assuming you are buying new). a sponge for mechanical filtration, a box of bio-max pellets and a bag to put it in (bio-max is one of the most effective media on the market today), and a bag of activated carbon (garbage).

you would put the media from the panguin between the sponge (bottom) and bio-max (top). you can discard the carbon, or save it for a later date.

best of luck