duckweed getting sucked into filter intake

[Winterose]

So i have a little problem. i have duckweed in my tank which i don't mind. My Filter keeps pulling the duckweed under and into the filter intake so it gets stuck in the slots. it seems every few hours i have to remove some from the intake entry. Is there anything i can do to get it to stop. it doesn't seem to be affecting the water flow into th filter its just annoying

 

[jpappy789]

Prefilter.

 

[rich311k]

I agree.

 

[Winterose]

whats a prefilter?

 

[Lupin]

Remove the duckweeds. My canas just wiped them out but they also wiped out a lot of my other plants.

 

[Bubbles2112]

A prefilter is something such as a sponge or media bag placed onto (or over) the filtration intake to help siphon off the larger 'stuff' so your filter doesn't get mucked up so quickly. They are very handy to use and also help extend the life of the equipment. Hope this description helps.

 

[DAVIDFBT]

An Aquaclear sponge put over the intake can help, so can raising the water level so the duckweed won't slip under the outflow.

 

[wendamus]

I have a sponge filter I got for $6.98 at my LFS that can be used as a pre-filter. I didn't have an english name though, he ordered it (and most of his other stuff) from China. However, a sponge filter is essentially just a PVC pipe. capped at one end, with slots cut in it and filter material of some sort placed over the slotted end. I just drew a quick picture so you can see, it'd be a simple DIY project. Please forgive my horrible drawing skills.

Also, I have the same duckweed problem, I just stopped clearing the filter, didn't seem to cause any problems at all.

 

[Winterose]

ok cool thanks guys

 

[Fordtrannyman]

Visual Aid

Of course it works better without your finger stuck in it. lol