55 gal. filter

[lonerider]

Hi,
I have my 55 gal freshwater tank set-up with a penguin bio-wheel 330. The
output and intake sits off to one side because of the tank support in the
center. The other side of the tank seems pretty calm and un-disturbed with
the plants not even moving. I feel as though it just isn't enough for my 55.
I have a 330 on my 29 and it performs well. What do other people use on
their 55's ? From the reviews i was thinking about a fluval 304 or 404. The
output then could be at just about dead center moving things around nicely.
I like my bio-wheels but then again the fluval has plenty of room for bio
media and is quieter. Thoughts ? Experiences with 55 gal filtration ??
Thanks,
Larry

[MartinOsirus]

> What do other people use on
>their 55

Eheim 2026 cannister. Works beautifully and don't have to clean every month.

[Morten]

"lonerider" > wrote in message
...
> Hi,
> I have my 55 gal freshwater tank set-up with a penguin bio-wheel 330. The
> output and intake sits off to one side because of the tank support in the
> center. The other side of the tank seems pretty calm and un-disturbed with
> the plants not even moving. I feel as though it just isn't enough for my
55.
> I have a 330 on my 29 and it performs well. What do other people use on
> their 55's ? From the reviews i was thinking about a fluval 304 or 404.
The
> output then could be at just about dead center moving things around
nicely.
> I like my bio-wheels but then again the fluval has plenty of room for bio
> media and is quieter. Thoughts ? Experiences with 55 gal filtration ??
> Thanks,
> Larry

I/m using a 2029 eheim canisters, butn then again I'm overstocking with
goldfish and koi, but also using a planted sump to get rid of some of the
excess nitrate. 50% water changes every two weeks.

Mine is actually a 240L (66 gal??) tank with total volume including sump of
300L.

The eheims are expensive but great, the last time i cleaned mine was more
because some of the sand I'm using as substrate was beeing sucked into the
buttom of the filter causeing the heater to shut down. This happens every
2-3 months, so I rinse out the gunk in the filter then to.


/Morten



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[Dinky]

"lonerider" > wrote in message
...
> Hi,
> I have my 55 gal freshwater tank set-up with a penguin bio-wheel 330. The
> output and intake sits off to one side because of the tank support in the
> center. The other side of the tank seems pretty calm and un-disturbed with
> the plants not even moving. I feel as though it just isn't enough for my
55.
> I have a 330 on my 29 and it performs well. What do other people use on
> their 55's ? From the reviews i was thinking about a fluval 304 or 404.
The
> output then could be at just about dead center moving things around
nicely.
> I like my bio-wheels but then again the fluval has plenty of room for bio
> media and is quieter. Thoughts ? Experiences with 55 gal filtration ??
> Thanks,
> Larry
>
>

I have had bad luck with Fluval canisters, with issues such as leaking,
getting water everywhere during servicing, and needing servicing more often
than I feel should be needed.
Eheim canister filters are spendy, but they're well worth it. I'd go
with a Eheim 2026 for your tank.
--

billy
--
Need tech help?
news://news.winextra.com

[jonboy]

If you go with a canister filter you should consider a Rena Filstar. I love
mine. They are quiet and do a great job of filtering my 55 gallon tank. I
also have a powerhead that I use to circulate and polish the water in my
tank.
"lonerider" > wrote in message
...
> Hi,
> I have my 55 gal freshwater tank set-up with a penguin bio-wheel 330. The
> output and intake sits off to one side because of the tank support in the
> center. The other side of the tank seems pretty calm and un-disturbed with
> the plants not even moving. I feel as though it just isn't enough for my
55.
> I have a 330 on my 29 and it performs well. What do other people use on
> their 55's ? From the reviews i was thinking about a fluval 304 or 404.
The
> output then could be at just about dead center moving things around
nicely.
> I like my bio-wheels but then again the fluval has plenty of room for bio
> media and is quieter. Thoughts ? Experiences with 55 gal filtration ??
> Thanks,
> Larry
>
>

[lonerider]

"jonboy" > wrote in message
t...
> If you go with a canister filter you should consider a Rena Filstar. I
love
> mine. They are quiet and do a great job of filtering my 55 gallon tank.
I
> also have a powerhead that I use to circulate and polish the water in my
> tank.
Which model rena filstar ? I'll do the research on the filstar and eheim
2022 to see what they are all about. Just don't feel my penguin 330 is up to
the job sitting over to one side of the tank. Love all the area of the
bio-wheels but one side of the tank is calm and un-disturbed by flow.
Thanks for the speedy replies,
Larry

[NetMax]

"lonerider" > wrote in message
...
> Hi,
> I have my 55 gal freshwater tank set-up with a penguin bio-wheel 330.
The
> output and intake sits off to one side because of the tank support in
the
> center. The other side of the tank seems pretty calm and un-disturbed
with
> the plants not even moving. I feel as though it just isn't enough for
my 55.
> I have a 330 on my 29 and it performs well. What do other people use on
> their 55's ? From the reviews i was thinking about a fluval 304 or 404.
The
> output then could be at just about dead center moving things around
nicely.
> I like my bio-wheels but then again the fluval has plenty of room for
bio
> media and is quieter. Thoughts ? Experiences with 55 gal filtration ??
> Thanks,
> Larry

If you will continue using the 330, then between the Fluvals, I think the
304 would be your best value. I don't have any trouble with either
model. Both use identical hose diameters, similar motors and the 304 is
one media basket shorter than the 404 (and you don't usually need 4 media
baskets). I think the Eheim 2215 Classic is in about the same
flow-rate/cost ballpark, but make sure it's packaged with media and
shut-off valves. There are also a few other choices on the market now as
well.

If not using the 330, the 304 would probably carry your bio-load, but
consider the 404 if you're running a really high bio-load. I'm a big fan
of running multiple filters, so any bio-wheel powerfilter paired with any
canister filter is a nice combo.

NetMax

[lonerider]

> If you will continue using the 330, then between the Fluvals, I think the
> 304 would be your best value. I don't have any trouble with either
> model. Both use identical hose diameters, similar motors and the 304 is
> one media basket shorter than the 404 (and you don't usually need 4 media
> baskets). I think the Eheim 2215 Classic is in about the same
> flow-rate/cost ballpark, but make sure it's packaged with media and
> shut-off valves. There are also a few other choices on the market now as
> well.
>
> If not using the 330, the 304 would probably carry your bio-load, but
> consider the 404 if you're running a really high bio-load. I'm a big fan
> of running multiple filters, so any bio-wheel powerfilter paired with any
> canister filter is a nice combo.
>
> NetMax
>

Hi NetMax,
The fluval 304 gets great reviews all over the net and i was kinda leaning
towards it. After what you said maybe the 404, i like to go a bit over than
under when it comes to filtering. The media and parts seem more readily
available then the filstar and i found a few complaints about noise with the
filstar. The eheim is top notch but pricey. I plan on taking the penguin 330
out after a few weeks on a canister filter so the bacteria has a chance to
take hold in the canister. Don't want all them tubes in the tank, i like to
keep things as natural looking as possible.
Looks like maybe a fluval 404.
Thanks,
Larry

[NetMax]

"lonerider" > wrote in message
...
>
> > If you will continue using the 330, then between the Fluvals, I think
the
> > 304 would be your best value. I don't have any trouble with either
> > model. Both use identical hose diameters, similar motors and the 304
is
> > one media basket shorter than the 404 (and you don't usually need 4
media
> > baskets). I think the Eheim 2215 Classic is in about the same
> > flow-rate/cost ballpark, but make sure it's packaged with media and
> > shut-off valves. There are also a few other choices on the market
now as
> > well.
> >
> > If not using the 330, the 304 would probably carry your bio-load, but
> > consider the 404 if you're running a really high bio-load. I'm a big
fan
> > of running multiple filters, so any bio-wheel powerfilter paired with
any
> > canister filter is a nice combo.
> >
> > NetMax
> >
>
> Hi NetMax,
> The fluval 304 gets great reviews all over the net and i was kinda
leaning
> towards it. After what you said maybe the 404, i like to go a bit over
than
> under when it comes to filtering. The media and parts seem more readily
> available then the filstar and i found a few complaints about noise
with the
> filstar. The eheim is top notch but pricey. I plan on taking the
penguin 330
> out after a few weeks on a canister filter so the bacteria has a chance
to
> take hold in the canister. Don't want all them tubes in the tank, i
like to
> keep things as natural looking as possible.
> Looks like maybe a fluval 404.
> Thanks,
> Larry

It's too bad about the Filstar complaints (if they were legitimate).
Hopefully, if there is any real problems, they will work it out as the
product matures. I hadn't heard anything negative in the newsgroups
about them. The more competitive the market is, the lower the costs
should go. I still have way more tanks than I have canister filters ;~).

The 404 will give you lots of current in a 55g. A spraybar can be
installed if you want to distribute it better. The only thing I still
dislike is their priming button. I don't usually use or need a priming
button, but if it's there (and with about a dozen Fluvals lying around to
service), I'll occasionally try it. It's usually an exercise in futility
;~). Fortunately, there are easier ways to get a canister filter flooded
& running, and these aren't fussy about trapped air.

We accidentally drained a 55g through a Python which was shut off (but
the diverter valve was left open). The 404 intake and outlet were up out
of the water (motor still running), so I knew that filter would be half
empty (worst case scenario). After refilling the tank, I unclicked the
hose adapter, put it into a pail and opened the shut-off valve. After
about 2-3 gallons had siphoned into the pail, I knew the hoses were full,
so I snapped them into the filter (motor stopped) and let them flood it.
Not the usual way I do it, but it worked like a charm.

Another neat way (I primed a completely empty Fluval like this, but it
would work with any canister that didn't use a spray bar), is on a new
tank set-up (with the canister motor off), point the garden hose you are
using to fill the tank at the filter outlet. When the bubbles stop
coming out the strainer, everything is full of water. Plug it in and off
you go.

Usually installing your canister full of water precludes the requirement
of a primer. AFAIK, the better Eheims (2028?) have a truly functional
primer, but my Eheim doesn't, so I can't comment :o( Oh well, primer
buttons are for wimps...... just kidding *pump pump* ;~)

NetMax

[MartinOsirus]

> I'm a big fan
>of running multiple filters, so any bio-wheel powerfilter paired with any
>canister filter is a nice combo

Absolutely true !! This is the best way to go !!

[lonerider]

>
> It's too bad about the Filstar complaints (if they were legitimate).
> Hopefully, if there is any real problems, they will work it out as the
> product matures. I hadn't heard anything negative in the newsgroups
> about them. The more competitive the market is, the lower the costs
> should go. I still have way more tanks than I have canister filters ;~).
>
> The 404 will give you lots of current in a 55g. A spraybar can be
> installed if you want to distribute it better. The only thing I still
> dislike is their priming button. I don't usually use or need a priming
> button, but if it's there (and with about a dozen Fluvals lying around to
> service), I'll occasionally try it. It's usually an exercise in futility
> ;~). Fortunately, there are easier ways to get a canister filter flooded
> & running, and these aren't fussy about trapped air.
>
> We accidentally drained a 55g through a Python which was shut off (but
> the diverter valve was left open). The 404 intake and outlet were up out
> of the water (motor still running), so I knew that filter would be half
> empty (worst case scenario). After refilling the tank, I unclicked the
> hose adapter, put it into a pail and opened the shut-off valve. After
> about 2-3 gallons had siphoned into the pail, I knew the hoses were full,
> so I snapped them into the filter (motor stopped) and let them flood it.
> Not the usual way I do it, but it worked like a charm.
>
> Another neat way (I primed a completely empty Fluval like this, but it
> would work with any canister that didn't use a spray bar), is on a new
> tank set-up (with the canister motor off), point the garden hose you are
> using to fill the tank at the filter outlet. When the bubbles stop
> coming out the strainer, everything is full of water. Plug it in and off
> you go.
>
> Usually installing your canister full of water precludes the requirement
> of a primer. AFAIK, the better Eheims (2028?) have a truly functional
> primer, but my Eheim doesn't, so I can't comment :o( Oh well, primer
> buttons are for wimps...... just kidding *pump pump* ;~)
>
> NetMax
>
I guess bottom line is have the canister and lines full before turning on
the motor and your primed with no air. My earlier years with aquariums all i
used were hang on the back of the tank power filters so when i picked up the
hobby again i went with the penguins. time to move on to the canisters.

Thanks again for the info,
Larry

[JazzyB]

Eheim has a line of canister filters called the Ecco. They have a
self-priming handle which also comes in handy. Essentially you move the
handle up and down until you've created a siphon effect. Once the water
fills the canister just plug it in and you're off and filtering.
"lonerider" > wrote in message
...
>
> >
> > It's too bad about the Filstar complaints (if they were legitimate).
> > Hopefully, if there is any real problems, they will work it out as the
> > product matures. I hadn't heard anything negative in the newsgroups
> > about them. The more competitive the market is, the lower the costs
> > should go. I still have way more tanks than I have canister filters
;~).
> >
> > The 404 will give you lots of current in a 55g. A spraybar can be
> > installed if you want to distribute it better. The only thing I still
> > dislike is their priming button. I don't usually use or need a priming
> > button, but if it's there (and with about a dozen Fluvals lying around
to
> > service), I'll occasionally try it. It's usually an exercise in
futility
> > ;~). Fortunately, there are easier ways to get a canister filter
flooded
> > & running, and these aren't fussy about trapped air.
> >
> > We accidentally drained a 55g through a Python which was shut off (but
> > the diverter valve was left open). The 404 intake and outlet were up
out
> > of the water (motor still running), so I knew that filter would be half
> > empty (worst case scenario). After refilling the tank, I unclicked the
> > hose adapter, put it into a pail and opened the shut-off valve. After
> > about 2-3 gallons had siphoned into the pail, I knew the hoses were
full,
> > so I snapped them into the filter (motor stopped) and let them flood it.
> > Not the usual way I do it, but it worked like a charm.
> >
> > Another neat way (I primed a completely empty Fluval like this, but it
> > would work with any canister that didn't use a spray bar), is on a new
> > tank set-up (with the canister motor off), point the garden hose you are
> > using to fill the tank at the filter outlet. When the bubbles stop
> > coming out the strainer, everything is full of water. Plug it in and
off
> > you go.
> >
> > Usually installing your canister full of water precludes the requirement
> > of a primer. AFAIK, the better Eheims (2028?) have a truly functional
> > primer, but my Eheim doesn't, so I can't comment :o( Oh well, primer
> > buttons are for wimps...... just kidding *pump pump* ;~)
> >
> > NetMax
> >
> I guess bottom line is have the canister and lines full before turning on
> the motor and your primed with no air. My earlier years with aquariums all
i
> used were hang on the back of the tank power filters so when i picked up
the
> hobby again i went with the penguins. time to move on to the canisters.
>
> Thanks again for the info,
> Larry
>
>

[NetMax]

Hi JazzyB. Unrelated to priming, you might be interested to google the
more recent newsgroup archives on the ECOnomy Eheim. I have NO personal
experience with them, nor do I know anyone who owns one, so I can't say
anything one way or another, but if you already own a piece of equipment,
it's interesting (and instructional) to find out what 'characteristics'
have been reported.

I've done this for various pieces of equipment I own, and after reading
the reviews/posts I generally agree on some points, consider others as
frivolous, and a few are just good to know (potential weaknesses and
spare parts which might be needed).

cheers
NetMax

"JazzyB" <jazzybjazzy STOP THE SPAM @ hotmail.com> wrote in message
...
> Eheim has a line of canister filters called the Ecco. They have a
> self-priming handle which also comes in handy. Essentially you move
the
> handle up and down until you've created a siphon effect. Once the
water
> fills the canister just plug it in and you're off and filtering.
> "lonerider" > wrote in message
> ...
<snip>

[JazzyB]

I'll take your advice and see what I can find on the filter. Are being
sarcastic when you say "ECOnomy Eheim"? Ecco stands for ''eheim convenient
canister operation'', as per their website. I find the filter quite good.
It's quiet, efficient, no hassle, keeps the tank clean, etc. What
interesting pieces of information did you find on the Ecco?
"NetMax" > wrote in message
.. .
> Hi JazzyB. Unrelated to priming, you might be interested to google the
> more recent newsgroup archives on the ECOnomy Eheim. I have NO personal
> experience with them, nor do I know anyone who owns one, so I can't say
> anything one way or another, but if you already own a piece of equipment,
> it's interesting (and instructional) to find out what 'characteristics'
> have been reported.
>
> I've done this for various pieces of equipment I own, and after reading
> the reviews/posts I generally agree on some points, consider others as
> frivolous, and a few are just good to know (potential weaknesses and
> spare parts which might be needed).
>
> cheers
> NetMax
>
> "JazzyB" <jazzybjazzy STOP THE SPAM @ hotmail.com> wrote in message
> ...
> > Eheim has a line of canister filters called the Ecco. They have a
> > self-priming handle which also comes in handy. Essentially you move
> the
> > handle up and down until you've created a siphon effect. Once the
> water
> > fills the canister just plug it in and you're off and filtering.
> > "lonerider" > wrote in message
> > ...
> <snip>
>
>

[jonboy]

Lonerider. I'm sitting next to the XP3 Filstar filter I have now with no
noise. The best thing about the filter is that is has a handle that you
flip up which shuts off the water to the hoses and allows you to remove the
houses so you can pull out the filter for cleaning. I can't say enough
about how easy this is to do. The filter baskets also have handles and are
very easy to remove. I've turned my filter off for extended periods and it
always primes back up. The Ehiem is twice the price. Also, you can get any
part you need online. Most LFS do carry the Fluval line but I've read a few
bad reviews about leaking, etc. I believe they all do the same thing in the
long run. The two things you should think about is noise and the ease to
clean the filter. You don't want to have to deal with water going all over
the place each time you need to service the filter. Good luck.
"lonerider" > wrote in message
...
>
> > If you will continue using the 330, then between the Fluvals, I think
the
> > 304 would be your best value. I don't have any trouble with either
> > model. Both use identical hose diameters, similar motors and the 304 is
> > one media basket shorter than the 404 (and you don't usually need 4
media
> > baskets). I think the Eheim 2215 Classic is in about the same
> > flow-rate/cost ballpark, but make sure it's packaged with media and
> > shut-off valves. There are also a few other choices on the market now
as
> > well.
> >
> > If not using the 330, the 304 would probably carry your bio-load, but
> > consider the 404 if you're running a really high bio-load. I'm a big
fan
> > of running multiple filters, so any bio-wheel powerfilter paired with
any
> > canister filter is a nice combo.
> >
> > NetMax
> >
>
> Hi NetMax,
> The fluval 304 gets great reviews all over the net and i was kinda leaning
> towards it. After what you said maybe the 404, i like to go a bit over
than
> under when it comes to filtering. The media and parts seem more readily
> available then the filstar and i found a few complaints about noise with
the
> filstar. The eheim is top notch but pricey. I plan on taking the penguin
330
> out after a few weeks on a canister filter so the bacteria has a chance to
> take hold in the canister. Don't want all them tubes in the tank, i like
to
> keep things as natural looking as possible.
> Looks like maybe a fluval 404.
> Thanks,
> Larry
>
>
>

[NetMax]

Ahh, well you see, I was already misinformed. Someone was complaining
about it, and the reply was from someone who also agreed with their
complaints but pointed out that it was an economy version, and that ECO
stood for economy. I should know better than to not research my
information more properly. my bad. I don't recall the specifics of
their complaints, but it was around the general construction, fragility
of the fittings or something. Hearsay. I should probably have said
nothing. If you have first hand experience with them and other filters
you can draw your own conclusions.

NetMax

"JazzyB" <jazzybjazzy STOP THE SPAM @ hotmail.com> wrote in message
...
> I'll take your advice and see what I can find on the filter. Are being
> sarcastic when you say "ECOnomy Eheim"? Ecco stands for ''eheim
convenient
> canister operation'', as per their website. I find the filter quite
good.
> It's quiet, efficient, no hassle, keeps the tank clean, etc. What
> interesting pieces of information did you find on the Ecco?
> "NetMax" > wrote in message
> .. .
> > Hi JazzyB. Unrelated to priming, you might be interested to google
the
> > more recent newsgroup archives on the ECOnomy Eheim. I have NO
personal
> > experience with them, nor do I know anyone who owns one, so I can't
say
> > anything one way or another, but if you already own a piece of
equipment,
> > it's interesting (and instructional) to find out what
'characteristics'
> > have been reported.
> >
> > I've done this for various pieces of equipment I own, and after
reading
> > the reviews/posts I generally agree on some points, consider others
as
> > frivolous, and a few are just good to know (potential weaknesses and
> > spare parts which might be needed).
> >
> > cheers
> > NetMax
> >
> > "JazzyB" <jazzybjazzy STOP THE SPAM @ hotmail.com> wrote in message
> > ...
> > > Eheim has a line of canister filters called the Ecco. They have a
> > > self-priming handle which also comes in handy. Essentially you
move
> > the
> > > handle up and down until you've created a siphon effect. Once the
> > water
> > > fills the canister just plug it in and you're off and filtering.
> > > "lonerider" > wrote in message
> > > ...
> > <snip>
> >
> >
>
>

[Dinky]

"jonboy" > wrote in message
et...
> Lonerider. I'm sitting next to the XP3 Filstar filter I have now with no
> noise. The best thing about the filter is that is has a handle that you
> flip up which shuts off the water to the hoses and allows you to remove
the
> houses so you can pull out the filter for cleaning. I can't say enough
> about how easy this is to do. The filter baskets also have handles and
are
> very easy to remove. I've turned my filter off for extended periods and
it
> always primes back up. The Ehiem is twice the price.

The Eheims have all these features, and unless I'm mistaken, had them first,
and the competition isn't just laying down and taking it. <g> Eheim is going
to have to keep moving if they don't want to lose thier "best in the
industry" reputation.

b

[JazzyB]

No problem. I've been using one for awhile and it's running quite smoothly.
I haven't had any problems with fragile parts, etc. Even if I had, Eheim's
post-sale service is top notch and would rectify any problem I might've had.
"NetMax" > wrote in message
. ..
> Ahh, well you see, I was already misinformed. Someone was complaining
> about it, and the reply was from someone who also agreed with their
> complaints but pointed out that it was an economy version, and that ECO
> stood for economy. I should know better than to not research my
> information more properly. my bad. I don't recall the specifics of
> their complaints, but it was around the general construction, fragility
> of the fittings or something. Hearsay. I should probably have said
> nothing. If you have first hand experience with them and other filters
> you can draw your own conclusions.
>
> NetMax
>
> "JazzyB" <jazzybjazzy STOP THE SPAM @ hotmail.com> wrote in message
> ...
> > I'll take your advice and see what I can find on the filter. Are being
> > sarcastic when you say "ECOnomy Eheim"? Ecco stands for ''eheim
> convenient
> > canister operation'', as per their website. I find the filter quite
> good.
> > It's quiet, efficient, no hassle, keeps the tank clean, etc. What
> > interesting pieces of information did you find on the Ecco?
> > "NetMax" > wrote in message
> > .. .
> > > Hi JazzyB. Unrelated to priming, you might be interested to google
> the
> > > more recent newsgroup archives on the ECOnomy Eheim. I have NO
> personal
> > > experience with them, nor do I know anyone who owns one, so I can't
> say
> > > anything one way or another, but if you already own a piece of
> equipment,
> > > it's interesting (and instructional) to find out what
> 'characteristics'
> > > have been reported.
> > >
> > > I've done this for various pieces of equipment I own, and after
> reading
> > > the reviews/posts I generally agree on some points, consider others
> as
> > > frivolous, and a few are just good to know (potential weaknesses and
> > > spare parts which might be needed).
> > >
> > > cheers
> > > NetMax
> > >
> > > "JazzyB" <jazzybjazzy STOP THE SPAM @ hotmail.com> wrote in message
> > > ...
> > > > Eheim has a line of canister filters called the Ecco. They have a
> > > > self-priming handle which also comes in handy. Essentially you
> move
> > > the
> > > > handle up and down until you've created a siphon effect. Once the
> > > water
> > > > fills the canister just plug it in and you're off and filtering.
> > > > "lonerider" > wrote in message
> > > > ...
> > > <snip>
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
>
>

[JazzyB]

No problem. I've been using one for awhile and it's running quite smoothly.
I haven't had any problems with fragile parts, etc. Even if I had, Eheim's
post-sale service is top notch and would rectify any problem I might've had.
"NetMax" > wrote in message
. ..
> Ahh, well you see, I was already misinformed. Someone was complaining
> about it, and the reply was from someone who also agreed with their
> complaints but pointed out that it was an economy version, and that ECO
> stood for economy. I should know better than to not research my
> information more properly. my bad. I don't recall the specifics of
> their complaints, but it was around the general construction, fragility
> of the fittings or something. Hearsay. I should probably have said
> nothing. If you have first hand experience with them and other filters
> you can draw your own conclusions.
>
> NetMax
>
> "JazzyB" <jazzybjazzy STOP THE SPAM @ hotmail.com> wrote in message
> ...
> > I'll take your advice and see what I can find on the filter. Are being
> > sarcastic when you say "ECOnomy Eheim"? Ecco stands for ''eheim
> convenient
> > canister operation'', as per their website. I find the filter quite
> good.
> > It's quiet, efficient, no hassle, keeps the tank clean, etc. What
> > interesting pieces of information did you find on the Ecco?
> > "NetMax" > wrote in message
> > .. .
> > > Hi JazzyB. Unrelated to priming, you might be interested to google
> the
> > > more recent newsgroup archives on the ECOnomy Eheim. I have NO
> personal
> > > experience with them, nor do I know anyone who owns one, so I can't
> say
> > > anything one way or another, but if you already own a piece of
> equipment,
> > > it's interesting (and instructional) to find out what
> 'characteristics'
> > > have been reported.
> > >
> > > I've done this for various pieces of equipment I own, and after
> reading
> > > the reviews/posts I generally agree on some points, consider others
> as
> > > frivolous, and a few are just good to know (potential weaknesses and
> > > spare parts which might be needed).
> > >
> > > cheers
> > > NetMax
> > >
> > > "JazzyB" <jazzybjazzy STOP THE SPAM @ hotmail.com> wrote in message
> > > ...
> > > > Eheim has a line of canister filters called the Ecco. They have a
> > > > self-priming handle which also comes in handy. Essentially you
> move
> > > the
> > > > handle up and down until you've created a siphon effect. Once the
> > > water
> > > > fills the canister just plug it in and you're off and filtering.
> > > > "lonerider" > wrote in message
> > > > ...
> > > <snip>
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
>
>

[Felix]

I am using a Magnum 350 attached to a bio wheel and then a 802 power head on
another bio wheel which has enough power to cause a lot of turbulence if I
need it. Have not had a fish die for a few months now and they seem okay.
They are growing.

[Michael Dean]

Lonerider,
I too would prefer to have too much filtration as opposed to not enough, but
one thing that I hadn't caught in any of the threads is the type of fish to
be kept (was I just not paying attention :) You really need to decide what
fish you're going to have before you determine the filtration system. You
don't want to expose fish that like milder currents to too much water flow.
African Cichlids like higher volumes of water flow, where as Discus, Angels,
Guppies, Siamese Fighting fish, etc. do not.

I have a 90gal. When I had an African Cichlid setup, I used 2 Fluval 404s -
excellent filters, not a problem in over a year. But, when I changed my
setup to a Discus tank, I had to replace the 404s with something a little
more mellow; so I went with 2 Emperor 400s.

What I have noticed is that it's better to have 2 smaller filters than 1
bigger one. You need to keep the water circulating to keep it from getting
stagnant and also to avoid cold pockets.

Mike

> Hi NetMax,
> The fluval 304 gets great reviews all over the net and i was kinda leaning
> towards it. After what you said maybe the 404, i like to go a bit over
than
> under when it comes to filtering. The media and parts seem more readily
> available then the filstar and i found a few complaints about noise with
the
> filstar. The eheim is top notch but pricey. I plan on taking the penguin
330
> out after a few weeks on a canister filter so the bacteria has a chance to
> take hold in the canister. Don't want all them tubes in the tank, i like
to
> keep things as natural looking as possible.
> Looks like maybe a fluval 404.
> Thanks,
> Larry
>
>
>

[Craig Williams]

If you had Fluval 404's than you could have just turned down the water flow
at the filter!

"Michael Dean" > wrote in message
...
> Lonerider,
> I too would prefer to have too much filtration as opposed to not enough,
but
> one thing that I hadn't caught in any of the threads is the type of fish
to
> be kept (was I just not paying attention :) You really need to decide
what
> fish you're going to have before you determine the filtration system. You
> don't want to expose fish that like milder currents to too much water
flow.
> African Cichlids like higher volumes of water flow, where as Discus,
Angels,
> Guppies, Siamese Fighting fish, etc. do not.
>
> I have a 90gal. When I had an African Cichlid setup, I used 2 Fluval
404s -
> excellent filters, not a problem in over a year. But, when I changed my
> setup to a Discus tank, I had to replace the 404s with something a little
> more mellow; so I went with 2 Emperor 400s.
>
> What I have noticed is that it's better to have 2 smaller filters than 1
> bigger one. You need to keep the water circulating to keep it from getting
> stagnant and also to avoid cold pockets.
>
> Mike

[lonerider]

Hi Mike,
The tank has been up and running with for almost 3 months. 5 ottos,2 corry
cats,1 ghost shrimp,3 sailfin mollies,1 tri color shark,5 neons and a red
fire gourami. With just the penguin 330 over to one side the other side is
too calm,almost stagnant. The center tank brace won't let me center the
filter. Thought about a penguin mini or a small canister to stir things up
on the other side but i would much rather keep the tank more natural looking
with just one pick up and exaust tube instead of 4. I already have 2
heaters, one in each corner. I like to keep things natural for me and the
fish. I have a few hornwort,java fern,water sprite,wisteria,money wort and a
banana plant. i have a cave made of stone,a hollow log and fake drift wood.
Don't want all them tubes making it look un-natural.

Larry

"Michael Dean" > wrote in message
...
> Lonerider,
> I too would prefer to have too much filtration as opposed to not enough,
but
> one thing that I hadn't caught in any of the threads is the type of fish
to
> be kept (was I just not paying attention :) You really need to decide
what
> fish you're going to have before you determine the filtration system. You
> don't want to expose fish that like milder currents to too much water
flow.
> African Cichlids like higher volumes of water flow, where as Discus,
Angels,
> Guppies, Siamese Fighting fish, etc. do not.
>
> I have a 90gal. When I had an African Cichlid setup, I used 2 Fluval
404s -
> excellent filters, not a problem in over a year. But, when I changed my
> setup to a Discus tank, I had to replace the 404s with something a little
> more mellow; so I went with 2 Emperor 400s.
>
> What I have noticed is that it's better to have 2 smaller filters than 1
> bigger one. You need to keep the water circulating to keep it from getting
> stagnant and also to avoid cold pockets.
>
> Mike
>

[Craig Williams]

I know for fluval they make tubes that extend the output of the canister
filter across the length of the tank.

http://www.hagen.com/canada/english/aquatic/product.cfm?CAT=1&SUBCAT=107&PROD_ID=01002350010101

"lonerider" > wrote in message
...
> Hi Mike,
> The tank has been up and running with for almost 3 months. 5 ottos,2 corry
> cats,1 ghost shrimp,3 sailfin mollies,1 tri color shark,5 neons and a red
> fire gourami. With just the penguin 330 over to one side the other side
is
> too calm,almost stagnant. The center tank brace won't let me center the
> filter. Thought about a penguin mini or a small canister to stir things up
> on the other side but i would much rather keep the tank more natural
looking
> with just one pick up and exaust tube instead of 4. I already have 2
> heaters, one in each corner. I like to keep things natural for me and the
> fish. I have a few hornwort,java fern,water sprite,wisteria,money wort and
a
> banana plant. i have a cave made of stone,a hollow log and fake drift
wood.
> Don't want all them tubes making it look un-natural.
>
> Larry

[NetMax]

Excellent point on matching turbulence to type of fish (I missed that
completely this time).

I know all the new Fluvals have a flow control, but I'm not sure how low
they can be reduced without affecting anything. At work I routinely do
this, but if something breaks, I can get parts easily ;~) Does anyone
know if there is any long-term effect on reliability. I suppose a good
worse-case scenario would be to plug one in and just close the valve
completely. I might try that at work. I'll need to remember that the
water inside will be completely stagnant when I open the valve. Maybe
I'll use distilled water inside with no media.

NetMax

"Craig Williams" > wrote in message
...
> If you had Fluval 404's than you could have just turned down the water
flow
> at the filter!
>
> "Michael Dean" > wrote in message
> ...
> > Lonerider,
> > I too would prefer to have too much filtration as opposed to not
enough,
> but
> > one thing that I hadn't caught in any of the threads is the type of
fish
> to
> > be kept (was I just not paying attention :) You really need to
decide
> what
> > fish you're going to have before you determine the filtration system.
You
> > don't want to expose fish that like milder currents to too much water
> flow.
> > African Cichlids like higher volumes of water flow, where as Discus,
> Angels,
> > Guppies, Siamese Fighting fish, etc. do not.
> >
> > I have a 90gal. When I had an African Cichlid setup, I used 2 Fluval
> 404s -
> > excellent filters, not a problem in over a year. But, when I changed
my
> > setup to a Discus tank, I had to replace the 404s with something a
little
> > more mellow; so I went with 2 Emperor 400s.
> >
> > What I have noticed is that it's better to have 2 smaller filters
than 1
> > bigger one. You need to keep the water circulating to keep it from
getting
> > stagnant and also to avoid cold pockets.
> >
> > Mike
>
>

[bannor]

On Sun, 7 Mar 2004 09:49:11 -0500, "Craig Williams"
> wrote:
>If you had Fluval 404's than you could have just turned down the water flow
>at the filter!


How?

[Craig Williams]

There is a valve right at the point where the hoses enter the canister.

"bannor" <bannor -at- echoes - net - mind the spam block> wrote in message
...
> On Sun, 7 Mar 2004 09:49:11 -0500, "Craig Williams"
> > wrote:
> >If you had Fluval 404's than you could have just turned down the water
flow
> >at the filter!
>
>
> How?

[blank]

"NetMax" > wrote in message
...
> Excellent point on matching turbulence to type of fish (I missed that
> completely this time).
>
> I know all the new Fluvals have a flow control, but I'm not sure how low
> they can be reduced without affecting anything. At work I routinely do
> this, but if something breaks, I can get parts easily ;~) Does anyone
> know if there is any long-term effect on reliability. I suppose a good
> worse-case scenario would be to plug one in and just close the valve
> completely. I might try that at work. I'll need to remember that the
> water inside will be completely stagnant when I open the valve. Maybe
> I'll use distilled water inside with no media.

What about Eheims--do they have a flow control?

[Morten]

"blank" > wrote in message
. au...
>
>
> What about Eheims--do they have a flow control?

The pro models do, but I'm not sure about the rest of the range...

/Morten



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[NetMax]

"Morten" > wrote in message
...
>
> "blank" > wrote in message
> . au...
> >
> >
> > What about Eheims--do they have a flow control?
>
> The pro models do, but I'm not sure about the rest of the range...
>
> /Morten

The Classics don't, but I've never really missed it (there are other ways
of controlling flow).

NetMax

> ---
> Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
> Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
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>
>

[NetMax]

"bannor" <bannor -at- echoes - net - mind the spam block> wrote in
message ...
> On Sun, 7 Mar 2004 12:15:59 -0500, "Craig Williams"
> > wrote:
>
> >I know for fluval they make tubes that extend the output of the
canister
> >filter across the length of the tank.
> >
>
>http://www.hagen.com/canada/english/aquatic/product.cfm?CAT=1&SUBCAT=107
&PROD_ID=01002350010101
>
> You know what's sad about this? This item is not available from the
> USA site at all. I can only hope that I can order the part
> somewhere...
>
> I guess that you Canadians use more spray bars than your USA
> cousins....

It's pretty easy to make your own spray bar. I often do, because I want
one to run the length of the tank, or have bigger holes, or a removable
end-plug to drain the snails out of it.

There is some differences between Canadian & US products, but the
differences are more related to which regulatory agency gave the supplier
the hardest time, or who approved it first (UL, CUL or CSA ;~). I think
our Canadian approvals used to be a bit more *cough* anal ;~) I used to
have to cross the border to buy DynaFlo filters, because they were so
cheap in the US. When they finally arrived in Canada, they had a few
design changes and were more expensive.

There are also distribution territories, marketing strategies and
different mark-ups which come into effect to a varying degree. Big Al's
online pricing is an example where they cannot compete with their brick
stores in Canada, so they have two price categories (Canadian and
everyone else).

Aquarists in North America don't really have any preferences by country
that I've noticed, except to accommodate the local water conditions, and
local suppliers. In general, I think Canadians are luckier with their
water quality. This is the impression I get when I speak with US water
filtration companies.

NetMax