Changing Filters Advice Please

[katykaye]

Hiya

I have a Juwel 125 tank. The tank has an inbuilt filter already and I would prefer to remove it. Has anyone else done so successfully? I am assuming that I can (very carefully) run a sharp edge down the silicone and remove the housing box. I want to replace it with the Fluval 205 external filter that my hubby bought me today - bless him!

Also, I want to replace the gravel with sand and have bought some from my lfs. Is there anything special I need to know about having sand instead of gravel?

Many Thanks

Kaye

 

[Colin_T]

some of the really fine sand gets stirred up easily and then gets drawn into the filter where it can damage the motor. Using a heavier/ larger grain of sand will prevent this as will having the filter intake raised a few inches above the substrate.

If the old filter has been run for a while then put the filter media from that into the Fluval to help establish the new filter. If the tank is new and the filters haven't been run yet, then just set up the Fluval. Most tanks with inbuilt filters can have the filter part removed. Just check to make sure it isn't a structural part.

 

[backtotropical]

I agree with Colin. You seem to have that tank and some fish listed in your sig, so I assume the filter is already cycled? If so, just take the sponges out and put them in the new filter.

With regard to removing the filter box, I have done so in my Vision 260. It's only held in with silicone so is easily removed. I've heard of people using razor blades and such like, but i used a wooden spatula as there is obviously less risk of scratching the tank.

Good luck!

BTT

 

[Bigbadbaz]

Have a look in tropical discussion, there are a few people changing their tanks from gravel to sand. Lots of hints and tips posted.

 

[katykaye]

Thanks for that bigbadbaz

After reading that lot I might just stick with the gravel LOL

I have set up my new filter this morning and it is running in the Juwel 125 alongside the orginal built in filter. so step one done! next step is to remove the old filter and housing but as I have been poorly sick I dont have the energy at the mo so will just leave the two running together for now - is that ok?

Also I am going to have to adapt the lid of the tank in order to feed the hosing for the new filters through and be able to close the lid properly - anyone else had to do that?