How Many Filters?

[oxfordmark]

Hello

I use "HAGEN MARINA BIO CARB SLIM FILTER" cartridges. This is what came with my tank.

However i notice there are spaces to fit 3 cartridges, but the instructions say to only use two, see my attached pic.

Should i be using 3 filter cartridges?

Thanks

 

[Aquascaper]

I personally would ditch the cartridges over time and replace with normal sponges and ceramics. This will give you far better filtration, more stability to the bacterial colony and save you loads of money.

But to answer your question, yes you can use all three slots if you wish.

 

[garyspence84]

I personally would ditch the cartridges over time and replace with normal sponges and ceramics. This will give you far better filtration, more stability to the bacterial colony and save you loads of money.

But to answer your question, yes you can use all three slots if you wish.

+1 on the sponges, much easier and better as well.

And of there's space for 3, then I would defo put a 3rd in it. It can only keep your water cleaner

 

[oxfordmark]

Where can i buy them from? And will it ft my current system?

Or should i buy a new kit?

Thanks

 

[fluttermoth]

Buy a sheet of pond filter sponge, and cut it to the right size

If your filter is cycled, then start off by adding a sponge in the free space. Six to eight weeks later swap out one cartridge, then, after another six to eight weeks, the last one. That way you won't be removing more than a third of the media at once and it shouldn't affect your water parameters.

 

[Aquascaper]

Any fish shop will sell filter media, the ceramics will be sold in box loose so just fill the space with whatever it takes and the sponges will be filter dependant so buy ones that won't require to much cutting up to avoid waste. Alternatively sponges can sometimes be found cheaper in the pond section, same stuff as the aquarium sponges but in bigger pieces (again just cut to size).

 

[oxfordmark]

Oh as simple as that? How often should it be replaced?

I find my current system sometimes vibrates and makes a noise, any recommendations of a filter/pump that is better?

 

[oxfordmark]

Do you think i should buy a new filter/pump?

I have the Marine Slim Filter s15. Would these sponges fit nicely in the unit?

 

[Aquascaper]

The S15 is rated for up to 15g so depends on the size of your tank. Having said that, changing from cartridges to sponges/ceramics will increase the filtration capacity (couldn't say by how much though).

You cut the sponges to fit so there's no issue with fitting sizes.

 

[oxfordmark]

Ok mines a 60 litre, it came with the tank

Are the sponges quite strong? I would be submerging it into water.

How often would they need replacing?

Also, i find that not all the water gets filtered. I. E there is space around the sides of thr cartridges where water can pass through.

 

[Fish12345]

hi ive got the same tank as you, acording to the tank booklet you have to change the the cartridges every month and by the way I woud buy a new filter becouse cartriges in this tank cost £15.00 every 3 months,, ive never heard of the sponge thing before coud someone advise me on that.

 

[fluttermoth]

You should never replace filter sponges, as if you do you'll lose all your good bacteria. Manufacturers just say that to get more money off you.

Of course, if they start to fall apart (although that's unlikely to happen; I have filter sponges that are getting on for 20 years old), you would need to replace them, but no more than one third at a time.

 

[Fish12345]

I'm talking about the filter cartridges not the sponge

 

[fluttermoth]

Yes, but the OP is replacing the cartridges with sponge/ceramic rings.

Anyway, even the cartridges shouldn't be replaced, as I said, that's just a ploy by the manufacturers to get more money from people.

 

[oxfordmark]

The cartridges get really dirty though, i never change them all in one go.

So will my current filter system be ok if i purchased some pond sponges?