Alternative filter media question

[LeahK]

I'm getting a little frustrated with my two Aqua Clear 70 HOB filters that are on my 55 gallon. It seems that they get clogged really easily. I have to take them apart and squeeze out the sponges at least once per week, or else the flow gets dramatically reduced.
I run one layer of generic filter floss, one layer of sponge that comes with AC filters, and one bag of AC bioballs.

The bioball mesh bags are falling apart, so that there's loose bioballs sitting on top. So, I was thinking of replacing all my media with loose bioballs, just filling the filter up with them. I was also thinking of cutting up the big sponges into cubes, and mixing those in with the bioballs, so that I don't lose the bacteria living on them.

Now, I realize that I'll lose some mechanical filtration without the full sponge layer, but otherwise will this be ok for biological filtration? I mean, will the filter run ok with just loose bioballs and bits of sponge?

 

[fishorama]

I think it's too much floss, I had that trouble when I used too dense of a layer. I use 2 sponges with a thin floss layer between or skip the floss & use the biomax between

 

[CBWMN]

Leahk
I just use the bio balls and sponge in my AC’s.
About once a month, I squeeze the sponges and rinse in old tank water.
IMO, the AC’s are the best HOB filter. They’re quiet, efficient and easy to maintain.
I also have Top Fin and Marineland HOB’s. No comparison at all.
Of course the best filter choice is a canister.
Good luck
Charles