XP3 temporarily on 29g?

[fishn10s]

My new 75 will probably be ready for setup in 2 weeks. Is it safe to start the colonization of bacteria on my new filstar Xp3 by setting it up IN ADDITION to the AC 50 on a 29 gallon? Will the current be too strong for the fish in there? This way I can just transfer that filter over to the 75 when its ready and it will be instantly cycled. Will this work?

The XP3 has the abililty to control the flow rate which was another plus for having me select that canister as part of the filtration for my 75 gal.

 

[fishn10s]

I want to squeeze the sponge into my media in my XP3, what else do I have to do besides simply turn the filter off and get open the cannister? Does the relase valve have to be opened?

When you shut off the valve, the tank water is stopped and it allows you to then open the canister. I think the directions state to refill/reattach it empty but I don't see why you couldn't partially empty to get to the sponges then reattach and close the filter then open the valve to have the filter refill from the tank.

 

[fishn10s]

I was thinking about doing that with my xP2 and my 10 gallon but then I thought about the fact that I'd have to cut the tubes to a certain length to set it up for my 10 and the length that I cut it to may not be the right length for my 30 when I set it up.

Would it be possible to set it up without cutting the tubes? I'd rather not guess how long they should be for my 30 and cut them to that length and end up being totally wrong and screwed because I messed up my filter.

The directions state that the length of the tubes is important to get proper and maximum flow. I don't suggest cutting the tubes then trying to get them to fit on your new set. The tubes are hard to get on the fixtures and forcing them on to be far enough on the fixture risks damaging the tubes or connections. I strongly suggest putting a little vasiline on both ends to allow the tubes to slip on easier for installation. Have an idea what direction you want the memory in the tubes to face. Once they are on, its really difficult to remove. I think that size hose should be easy to reset up on your new set. If the hose is longer than needed on your new setup, you could cut the tubes and reattach. If the hose needs to be longer, you will need to cut off the hoses and use new hoses. Don't force the hose on the fixtures!

 

[DeRo316]

I strongly suggest putting a little vasiline on both ends to allow the tubes to slip on easier for installation.

I just put the end in boiling water for a few seconds then it slips right on and when it "hardens" again its sealed and not going anywhere.

 

[plah831]

I just put the end in boiling water for a few seconds then it slips right on and when it "hardens" again its sealed and not going anywhere.

that's the method I use, too. The water doesn't even need to be boiling, just really warm. That way, the plastic softens. And as DeRo said, when it cools it will harden and shrink again, so fit perfectly. I would personally stay away from vaseline as it's a petroleum product, so probably toxic to fish. Especially since this is on your filter, so it will end up all over your water.

Lots of people use a little vaseline to keep aquarium backdrops in place (those sheets you can get at the store), but that's OK because it shouldn't end up getting in your water. As opposed to putting it on the inside of the tube through which all your tank water will circulate.

 

[fishn10s]

Thats right and a great idea. I now remember that trick when I had my saltwater reef tank!