Taking down cannister filter

[bghill]

I am wondering if there are any tips or tricks anyone may have about removing the intake and output lines on cannister filters without water pouring all over the place. I was setting up my new cannister and was moving it around to find the most suitable spot. Of course I ended up with half the tank on the floor by the time I was done. There must be a better way! The filter is A Tom Rapids Mini Cannister shown here.
http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_Aquar...rprises_rapids_mini_canister_filter_c_80.html

Thanks.

 

[deadxero]

You should be able to find a couple of cheep plastic valves that you can put in line on both the feed and return lines. Will make it easier on you. The here may still be a small spill, but if you place the valves just above the filter it will be minimal.

 

[bghill]

Does it matter which hose gets disconnected first to minimize spillage?

 

[ansbfish]

I use an xP 3 which has a disconnect for both, but usually what you'll want to do is disconnect the in line and then let the filter run for a second and then unplug and disconnect the output line
this will empty a bit of the water from the filter and prevent it from spilling water out