Pythons (diy And Off-the-shelf)

[backtotropical]

Hi,

I can't decide whether to buy a python or make my own. Could everyone please post pics of theirs to help me decide, and also to give me ideas of what options i have if i decide to go DIY.

Cheers

BTT

(This should probably be in the hardware forum, but i thought i'd get a better response here)

 

[h_ceri]

Just to let you know, I was going to buy a new python a few days ago but the price for a decent size really put me off. So i bought all the individual official parts for it (on off switch, faucet pump, connectors etc) for £17 at [URL="http/www.fishandfins.co.uk/"]http/www.fishandfins.co.uk/[/URL] and I plan on picking up some hose from B&Q.

I'll be putting it together end of next week once my exams are over and can let you know how it works then if you fancy - even if i end up having to buy the official "extension tube" it'll still come much cheaper than the original one.

connectors = £17
2 x 20ft extension tubes = £24
40 feet: £41

Cheapest price: 25feet for £50odd quid.

This price is also assuming that I can't find any hose at B&Q in which case the price will be more like £25 for about 30 meters or so.

Sorry if its a long winding answer, i'll let you know how it goes if you are interested.

 

[backtotropical]

h_ceri, thanks for the reply. I've been looking in B&Q today and have decided to go for the DIY option.

I may do a photo diary of making the thing, since i don't think that's been done yet.

Cheers for the info.

BTT

 

[rdd1952]

I have the real deal but you can make one much cheaper. The key component is the connection/valve. It is the same thing that is included with every water to fill & drain them. Unfortunately, water beds are not that popular anymore so finding one may be difficult. Other than that, all you need is the hose and a vacuum on the other end.

 

[backtotropical]

Cheers RDD. I don't have a waterbed so can't do that.

I'm going to follow the pinned thread about how to make one. I've been studying it all afternoon.

 

[rdd1952]

Even if you don't have a WB, you should be able to order the piece online, find it at a store that sells WBs or possibly get one at a hardware store.

 

[backtotropical]

I've already sourced the stuff at B&Q, but thanks for the info. Much appreciated.

 

[backtotropical]

OK. I've been to B&Q today and i've made my python. It's fantastic!!!

It takes all the work out of water changes. Totally amazing. (i know it's just basic physics, but i am really impressed with it)

I spent £60, but i got 13 metres (42 feet) of transparent hose so i can see exactly whats happening, and attachments for my gravel cleaners so i can just plug them into it.

I'll never lift a bucket again!!!!!

 

[rdd1952]

I spent £60, but i got 13 metres (42 feet) of transparent hose so i can see exactly whats happening, and attachments for my gravel cleaners so i can just plug them into it.

How much does the real Python cost over there? That's about $117 US Dollars if I'm converting correctly. You can get a 50' Python over here online at Petsmart for $45.99 plus shipping.

 

[charlie4486]

^ i was just about to say the same thing. I got mine from petsmart.

 

[JimShorts]

I spent £60, but i got 13 metres (42 feet) of transparent hose so i can see exactly whats happening, and attachments for my gravel cleaners so i can just plug them into it.

How much does the real Python cost over there? That's about $117 US Dollars if I'm converting correctly. You can get a 50' Python over here online at Petsmart for $45.99 plus shipping.

Exactly what I was thinking. I bought my Python for $40 here in the States.

 

[h_ceri]

a 50ft python over here will set you back at least £60 from what I've been able to find ($120). My DIY one with the python bits and stuff should come to abouve £30 or $60 - but they're realy expensive over here.

 

[the biffster]

i think the syphon python is the best thing since sliced bread especially when you are doing
lots of water changes (14 tanks worth)

 

[rdd1952]

a 50ft python over here will set you back at least £60 from what I've been able to find ($120). My DIY one with the python bits and stuff should come to abouve £30 or $60 - but they're realy expensive over here.

Wow!!! Hard to believe there's that much differencce in the price over there. I guess shipping across the pond is part of that. You would almost think there would be a company over here that ships worldwide that would still be cheaper (although it may take some time).

 

[nukeonekitty]

I have a Python, but I had it given to me and wasn't really aware of the price.