Rena XP3 help

[GuiltyPleasures]

Okay I just got a Rena XP3 canister filter and installed it yesterday on my big tank, it's up and running great and already I've seen a great improvement in the water conditions. I also have a aquaclear 110 hob filter on the tank (135 gal) I will also be adding another aquaclear 110 as soon as I order a replacement impeller as the one on it broke. My question is I want to do a water change on the tank before I leave town for a wedding and I'm not sure how to do it. Do I just un-plug the xp3 or do I need to lift up the "quick release handle first and then un-plug it? Also do I need to prime it again once I have refilled the tank water and I'm ready to plug everything back in?
Sorry the instructions aren't as clear cut on doing the water changes with this filter so I'm kind of lost on that part.
Thanks for any help and sorry to be so long winded, on a coffee jag lol

Rene

 

[Hooked Newbie]

Just unplug it, it will stay primed.

 

[GuiltyPleasures]

Thanks, so I don't need to do the quick release thing either? Just leave the handle down and unplug?

 

[Hooked Newbie]

Thanks, so I don't need to do the quick release thing either? Just leave the handle down and unplug?

Correct. The only time you need to use the quick release is for cleaning it.

 

[GuiltyPleasures]

thanks a bunch, that will make it easy to do then (well as easy as cleaning a 135 can get that is lol)
I still can't believe how quiet this filter is, and how well it's working. After I get my other aquaclear up and running again I'll have enough filtration for about a 400 gal tank, my water should be crystal clear

 

[BoredAgain]

Why would you be turning it off for a water change? I leave my on.

 

[Hooked Newbie]

I shut mine off because I empty enough water to expose the spray bar and found that if I don't, I get quite wet. lol

 

[Hurley]

When I do water changes I usually leave my xp running. I just have to make sure the water level doesn't get below the filter intake. Also, you only need the quick release when you open up the canister. I forgot to close it last week, opened up the canister, and was promptly greeted by a lovely wave of water that made a mess all over my floor.

 

[BoredAgain]

I shut mine off because I empty enough water to expose the spray bar and found that if I don't, I get quite wet. lol

Ah, I have mine facing the back glass, so I don't have that problem.

 

[GuiltyPleasures]

lol, I don't need a bath that bad
I always turn everything off except for one of the lights, found out the hard way to make sure my heaters are off if they aren't covered in water lol
I'm using the spray bar too, anyone have any input on what's best to use, the spray bar or the jet spray thing?