I currently run two canister filters in a 125 gal cichlid tank. My current substrate is gravel, I was thinking about changing it to sand but before I do I wanted to know if the canister filters sucked up the sand from the fish kicking it up :bowing: wouldn't this be bad for the filter (impeller, motor)?
Canister filter safe?
- Thread starter merky161
- Start date
Well, in the setup I have in my FilStars, the sand would not reach the impeller so no damage would happen. Well, unless were talking sand that is less than 10 microns but I think that is technically dust.(or there about as I have doubts the final filter is absolutely 10 microns more like a 10-15 range)
The easiest way to prevent fine gravel or sand from entering the intake on cannisters is to install a sponge prefilter on the intake tube. They are widely available and vary from fine to course.
A guy sells several types called "fishsavers" on eBay.
Marineland also sells a pretty large course one that I use as well.
A guy sells several types called "fishsavers" on eBay.
Marineland also sells a pretty large course one that I use as well.
I use a prefilter but even without it I have not had any problem with my tanks. You would have to suck up a LOT of sand to block the media and cause the pump to bypass (if it can do that).
patoloco
De seguro no sabes lo que dice aqu
I ran a Pennplax Cascade 1000 canister filter in a sand tank. My fish kept stirring the sand so some was sucked by the intake tube. However, filter design forces water trough 3 filter media baskets before it reaches the actual water pump.
Every month I found 2-3 table spoons of sand in the bottom of the canister, but I never found it in the impeller or the impeller housing. There was only a little sand in the first media basket.
Every month I found 2-3 table spoons of sand in the bottom of the canister, but I never found it in the impeller or the impeller housing. There was only a little sand in the first media basket.
Doesn't seem to be a problem. I do take my impeller out and clean it just to be sure and I haven't found any grit in there. I have started using a sponge on my inlet becasue of plant debris clogging it. I thought that intake would actually be better. I see it 's getting dirty after a few days, so may take it off and rinse between filter changes. I got a chunk of foam as a freebe and a fish club mtg and cut in half, used half for this and half for a DIY filter for my in tank fluval...yipee!