Eheim 2217 or Rena XP3?

[superjohnny]

Wow Matt, thank you. With an adjustable flow and a spray bar I think I'll be alright. I really appreciate your help.

thank you everyone for your input... that's what makes this a great forum

 

[125gJoe]

DIYMatt, excellent write-up on the two filters!
I'm sure superjohnny will be satisfied.

One more thing about the high price of Eheim is that it comes from Germany..(?) Count on paying more for that..

 

[superjohnny]

Yea Matt that was really nice of you to share like that... *applause*

That said I ordered the XP3. If I have too much water movement the angels will just have to get in better shape With a spray-bar it shouldn't be a big deal. We'll soon find out.

 

[chefkeith]

Filtstar XP3 gets my vote. I have 1 and am getting 2 more. To slow down the flow rate, you can just add more sponge/foam media in the baskets. The flow rate lever on the spray bar makes a whistling noise. I took off the lever from the piping.

www.bigalsonline.com

is the cheapest place to get one.

 

[Gunnie]

I am pretty new to the hobby, and when I got a 110 high tank, I started looking at canister filters. I chose the Filstar XP2 first, loved it, and got an XP3. I really like the media baskets which make cleaning much easier. Another feature I read about when comparing filters was that it has an automatic shut off so the motor won't overheat. I also was sold on the price which was much cheaper than other filters at the same gph rate. I got both of them on ebay. I got my XP3 for $90.00 including shipping! I think you will be very happy with your decision. The technical support is also excellent.

 

[DIYMatt]

You're welcome everyone. Superjohnny- I think you will be very happy with that filter. I want to second Chefkeith's advice about the flow adjustment thingy on the Renas. Also, it's just another peice that could possibly leak. I wouldn't use it either.

 

[jdheff1982]

I have a Rena XP3 and love it! About the flow adjuster, you have 2 options with it. 1, use the venturi setup and let the bubbles flow. Or 2, Rena supplies a plug for the flow adjuster. In this case, if you don't want bubbles, but want flow control; just plug the hole!! I have never had any problems with mine in any catagory. Maintnece is a breeze, priming is easy. You can't go wrong with this filter. Have fun!!! My only, only complaint about the XP3 is the mounting problem I have with the intake/outtake tubes. Anywho, you will enjoy your new filter!! Ciao!

 

[chefkeith]

Thanks silver_ shark.

I didn't even know there was a plug for the flow lever. I looked around in my spare parts bin and there it was. I hooked up the lever with the plug in the hole and whistling sound is gone.

Thanks again for correcting me.

 

[NJ Devils Fan]

I just got my xP3 yesterday and set it up a few hours ago. It's awesome. The media compartments are great and they threw in a thing of ceramic rings for free. I will definitely be buying more of them for my next tanks.

 

[125gJoe]

Originally posted by NJ Devils Fan
I just got my xP3 yesterday and set it up a few hours ago. It's awesome. The media compartments are great and they threw in a thing of ceramic rings for free. I will definitely be buying more of them for my next tanks.

Great! It's a real nice design!!
I'm getting another for my new All Glass 125 gallon. I may still use the Fluval 404, or retire it with the sale of the 80 gallon.. !