Fluval 2 Plus Filter Questions...

[bogwood]

This filter's water outlet sits just below the water surface - there is an optional 'air flow' attachment which makes 'bubbles' across the surface. Do I need to use this attachment?... is there any 'real' benefit - or is it just for show?

Also, there is a carbon filter pad included - do I need to use this? Thanks

 

[Bloo]

The extra "venturi" attachment will add some extra aeration and draw in air to distribute a little extra oxygen through the water. The benefit is very little. It just creates noise in my opinion and certainly no good if you have real plants in the tank as it causes any CO2 (the plants need) to leave the water.
Those carbon pads only has a very short life of a few weeks. They are expensive to replace and have little benefit (and are only of benefit if you replace them when they should, otherwise any of the trapped toxins leach back). They are however useful to remove any medication traces after tank treatment.

Remember to clean the filter head regularly and don't wait for the indicator to tell you that it's time to clean.
I used to give mine a weekly clean. The mechanical bits and outer casing got a good blast with the shower hose to make sure all the dirty bits are washed out.

 

[OohFeeshy]

Yeah, its a good filter but a pain to clean.... Try to give the pads a rinse every week, I know if I miss a week or two I have to use a bent coat hangar to get the casing out