? Foam Filter?

what would i need the airstone for?
The airstone is sitting in the bottom part and starting the bubble lift. But you can also run the filter without it, in which case the bubble lift starts in the upper lift tube.
 
wow this is really confusing....
It's only confusing because you do not see the filter ;). But Mgamer is right, that filter, the airline and the air pump are sufficient. You can try the airstone setup, if you like, and decide what suits you better.

You can use a powerhead, but most sponge filters clog a bit too easily with that setup.
 
It's only confusing because you do not see the filter ;). But Mgamer is right, that filter, the airline and the air pump are sufficient. You can try the airstone setup, if you like, and decide what suits you better.

You can use a powerhead, but most sponge filters clog a bit too easily with that setup.

so i should get the reverse flow
 
as long as you clean the the sponge it will be fine. i run those sponges over the intake of my canisters to keep plants and sand out of the filter.


It's only confusing because you do not see the filter ;).

ulan is right also..... until i got one for the life of me i didnt get it.
 
so i should get the reverse flow
Reverse flow compared to what? You are supposed to suck the water from the filter through your powerhead, if that is what you mean.
is this the right filter?
http://www.thatpetplace.com/pet/prod/214001/product.web
or
http://www.thatpetplace.com/pet/prod/203843/product.web
for the 2nd one do i just add that to my currently using 10 gallon or is that also an actual filter?
The first one is a ready to use system, a powerhead with plumbing and filter. I heard that this specific powerhead is not very durable, though. Also, the filters are proprietary; you cannot use any others with that system.

The second one is the same we were talking about on last page. You need either an airpump with airline or a powerhead for it to work.
 
Reverse flow compared to what? You are supposed to suck the water from the filter through your powerhead, if that is what you mean.

Generally when they say reverse flow, they are refering to Under Gravel Filters. In a normal flow UGF the water is pulled down thru the gravel then up to the top of the tank from below the gravel using a lift tube. In a reverse flow UGF the water is pushed down the lift tube under the gravel and is pushed up thru the gravel.

In some makes of power heads with reverse flow options the flow of water thru the power head is reversed and a sponge is placed over the output which is now functioning as an intake. In other makes attachments are placed on the output to direct the flow into a lift tube instead of into the open tank and a sponge is placed over the intake.
 
It is not hard at all to use the Lustar sponge filters. If you have an air pump and airline already, its better. But, you can also purchase those items, as well as some generic airstones for the setup. I recently purchased 3 of the Lustars for 3 of my tanks and set one of them up. It is confusing when you can't see how it works, but putting it together is a breeze. If you want that type of sponge filter, then just buy the items and you should understand the setup more when you actually have the items in your hands. :)

Sponge filters need an air supply or a powerhead to use them. Most people use air....therefore you need an air pump and airline. The Lustars just suggest using an airstone as well to oxygenate the water.
 
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