Diy Canister Filter

[BigN_187]

I'm currently working on a DIY canister filter. I've got the actual filter housing assembled, I just have two questions.

1) I want to put in as many different types of filtration as I can, since the main reason I'm doing this is because of my strive for immaculate water in my tank (among other reasons.) However, my canister is very large and it would be expensive to fill it with strictly commercial filter media. I realize I'll have to buy some of it, because you just can't substitute at-home things for it. However, in terms of biological media, what options do I have? What may I be able to find at home to use? Also, are there more types of filtration than Mechanical, Biological, and Chemical, or is that it?

2) Although the filter casing / media housing itself is assembled, I still need to figure something out for the pump to drive it. I have one power head / submersible pump right now, and I'm wondering if I could use it somehow. My tank is 55g, and the pump I have is rated for 80gph. So first of all, is that a strong enough pump to use? If not, disregard the rest of this question. If it will work, how do I set it up?

This is the pump I have. It has an output, but the intake is just sort of on the side.

Anyway, any advice is greatly appreciated.

 

[Aquascaper]

You need to be aiming for x4 turnover of your tank minimum through the filter so at least a 250gph pump is required.

As it's a DIY filter you will no doubt lose an exceptional amount of flow once it is filled with media so chances are you will need something much larger than that.

 

[RossC]

Mechanical filtration can be achieved using some sort of netting or sponge, easily available in the home. Dunno about chemical and biological. And it would be best to make the inflow go into the bottom of the filter and then the pump on top of the filter media. So gravity siphons from the tank filling the filter up. then the pump will send it back to the tank.
Hope this helps. Would love to see some pics

 

[BigN_187]

Ok, that's fine. Any recommendations for pumps? Again, don't get me wrong, I'm completely fine with spending money, I just can't go out and buy a commercial canister filter. And I'd like to spend as little as possible on a pump. I know they can get pricey.

Ross: Thanks for that information. If I decide to go that route, then I would also need a pump compact enough for that to work - unless you're suggesting the pump I have would work? Pics will definitely be up soon!