External Filter Media Suggestions

[kyleb2003]

I have a Fluval 305 external filter in a 240l planted, just been reading another thread about replacing filter media (didn't want to hijack) where a few people suggested not replacing carbon as it's useless unless you want to remove medication/tannins (I like tannins!). So, instead of wasting my money on currently not needed activated carbon, could anyone suggest what I could replace it in the filter with that would be beneficial? I don't want anything that would affect ferts (dosing EI) or plants, and I already have 4 x sponges and that biomax stuff (the little white cylinder shaped things with a hole through the middle/giant Polos).

Cheers

 

[N0body Of The Goat]

Some Eheim Substrat Pro, might cost a bit more (although I got 5l for £30 last year on Ebay), but it should last years and bacterial colonies thrive on its rough coating.

 

[Gvilleguy]

I have a Fluval 205 (similar design to your 305), and after the vertical sponges my baskets contain:
1. Fluval pre-filter cylinders (alter the direction/flow of the water, causing larger particulates to settle out)
2. Biomax pellets

That's really all you need - just fill several of your trays with both types.

 

[This Old Spouse]

Instead of the carbon layer, I used ceramic "noodles" placed in a laundry bag that I had sewn to fit the space.

 

[kyleb2003]

Thanks guys I'll have a look into those and ditch the carbon

 

[Hypnotoad]

Interesting

I have the 205 filter and I use

• Zeo-Carb at the bottom (I change every month)
• 2 trays of bio-max in the middle
• Polishing pad at the top (Change every month)

is this a good idea?

 

[Spurry]

Instead of the carbon layer, I used ceramic "noodles" placed in a laundry bag that I had sewn to fit the space.

if i remember right as i have just set mine up there are 3 trays = 6 slots 3 with ceramics 3 with carbon have you got ceramics in them all
what about the plastic ball thing there in my river reef and seem to work well

 

[Tizer]

I had biomax in all 3 trays topped off with two of the polishing pads. Dont need anything else really. Lots of media comes in handy if you want to instantly cycle a new filter.

 

[Gvilleguy]

Interesting

I have the 205 filter and I use

• Zeo-Carb at the bottom (I change every month)
• 2 trays of bio-max in the middle
• Polishing pad at the top (Change every month)

is this a good idea?

I don't think you need the zeo-carb, but if your filter remains cycled when you discard the zeo, you must have enough other media to keep everything running okay.