Filter Current... How To Slow It Without Adjusting Flow Rate

[Channti]

I'm running an AquaClear 70 on my 46 gallon tank. The problem I have is that the filter current from the outflow is actually causing my sand to "drift" and moving the sand in about a 3" by 1" rectangle. I don't want to decrease the flow rate if I don't have to, but is there another easy way to slow the filter current at the surface so it won't move my sand at the bottom?. On smaller filters, I've glued plastic mesh to the outflow which broke up the current, used extra foam in the filter, etc.

I've already attached a "prefilter" to the intake to prevent sand from getting into the motor.

 

[Corleone]

I have a couple aquaclears, and they are pretty strong for hanging filters. If you block the output so water doesn't spill directly into the tank, you'll cut down on the flow a bit. I used half of a 2 liter bottle to do that once. That was because my hatchetfish were getting blown around, but I think it'll work for sand problems, too.

 

[Channti]

How did you attach the bottle to the filter output?. I'd love to see a picture if you have one.

My problem is that i've got a glass canopy that sits tight to the top of the tank, with the plastic back of it (that you cut for accomodating filters, etc. is only about 2.5-3" wide, so I've gotta find something narrow. If I knew how you attached it, I might be able to use the idea or modify it so it would work on my tank. .

 

[Corleone]

I have a similar glass lid, but there was a bit more room to work with than it sounds like you have. I taped the bottle to the top of the filter and let it hang down, and trimmed it until it didn't quite touch the back of the tank.

 

[Channti]

I'll have to go drink some pop to get the bottle (we don't drink bottled pop or bottled water in our house, so no empty bottles laying around) and I'll give it a try this week. If it doesn't work.. I guess I'll just have to post on here all over again

Thanks!

 

[SlyPolak]

I had the same problem with one of my filters so what I did is I bought a piece of driftwood just a little smaller than the width of my tank, and wedged it ever so lightly between the output and the glass on the other side of the tank... Works PERFECT to almost eliminate the current while providing a nice spot for my synandontis to chill ALL DAY... sometimes my bichirs even rest on one of the ends with their bodies half way out....
EDIT:: took pics ( I'm BORED!!! )