BTW, if you didnt realize, a canister filter and a DE filter are two different things. A DE can be considered a canister style but it is unique. if you just want a canister filter than thats a whole different things.
Diatom Filter
- Thread starter TheCat
- Start date
Oh no. That I do understand. As you said, it's a type of canister filter insofar as it is a canister but, imho, the media is what sets it apart. Where the typical canister may use stages of filter media, the DE uses specifically diatomaceous earth, which are fossilized diatoms. So I do get that, I just liked the idea of having crystal clear water all the time - not that my water runs cloudy, even with my tendency to over feed. I do 40 - 50% water changes weekly. And I am happy with the way the Aquaclear works, just not how it looks - big thing hanging on the back of the tank, yuck. lol
i have the vortex diatom xl and i use it continuously on all 3 of my tank, alternating from one to the other and rechargin the filter whenever it needs it and it works fine and i always have crystal clear water, i also bought the super-char for from the lfs and the de + the super-char i would drink the water it gets purified.....I also have the H.O.T. Magnum on my 20 gal and it work okay, but it's hard to get an air tight seal on it, the gravel attachment comes in handy though......hope this helps
The only thing thats different that I am aware is they now have a 'recharge valve' that allows the unit to keep prime when its off which makes it much easier to stop and restart, etc.
joestyx - how long will your XL typically run until clogging? Just curious, I've thought about running my XL continuous but never tried.
joestyx - how long will your XL typically run until clogging? Just curious, I've thought about running my XL continuous but never tried.
about 2 weeks dirty tank, and about a month in a clean one with a moderate bio-load
It's hard to get a clear view of the differences between the D-1 and XL, www.diatomfilters.com doesn't detail the difference in specs, but rather defines them in different terms. Any thoughts on which one is better used as a temporary water polisher for tanks 45g and up?
legendaryfrog
Tactical Refreshment Action
Diatom filters are for the bunch of people who need absolutely pristine water clarity.
And my that I mean, not even a spec of dust floating around.
If you're not one of those people, than IMO dont bother.
And my that I mean, not even a spec of dust floating around.
If you're not one of those people, than IMO dont bother.
