802 powerhead question

[nano55]

I have 2 (I think they are Aquaclear)802 powerheads in my tank with the filter baskets attached to them. Inside these baskets are tubes that I wrap batting material around(batting used for quilting). When they get dirty and full of gunk, I just throw the material out and put fresh on. I was wondering if I could possibly find sponges to use instead of the batting? Would that work? my main filter is my 350 mag., but I find using the baskets on the power heads really pick up the extra debris in my tank. They are pretty dirty and need to be changed about every couple of weeks. The batting is ok, except it tends to break up and get loose in the tank sometimes. I was hoping the sponges would be a better option?

 

[fishorama]

I have thought of cutting an Aqua Clear filter sponge to go inside the Quick filter but haven't done it yet. Maybe when I can no longer clean the filter sleeve...

 

[toddnbecka]

There are 2 different sponges that will work well in the housings. The coarser type is usually sold as a prefilter for pond pumps, and has a hollow core all the way through. I see them seasonally available in 2 packs at Wal-Mart, also on e-bay occaisonally. The other one is a finer grade of foam, actually sold as an air-driven (often double) sponge filter.
I also use bulk pond filter media (blue/white pad) wrapped around the plastic core for reusable/rinsable media. I bought a large roll a few years ago, and used it to separate crushed coral and gravel (on top of the UG filter plates) in a couple tanks, filter media for several canisters, and even in a couple AC hob's for additional media.

 

[bigfish11]

i am currently using 802 powerheads with the quick filter, when the filter media provided was no longer usable i when with the HOT magnum filter sleeve. i just cut it so it is one long foam pad and wrap it around the interior plastic holder and it is good to go. when it is clogged up i just remove and rinse it off in the sink. I picked up a 3 pack of sleeves the last time I mail order stuff for under $5.