Setting up an external filter

[@ombomb]

I've recently swapped out my internal Fluval 4 for an Eheim Classic 2213 and it's all gone smoothly.

The only question I have about this is which is the best way to have the output set up?

Currently it's near impossible to attach the outlet so it shoots the water down the length of the tank so I have it attached to the back, shooting the water out across the tank towards the front. This is creating plenty of movement on the surface of the water, but I was wondering whether it would be better to make another hole in the lid of my tank so I could move the outlet?

Is it better to avoid messing up the lid of my tank, or increasing the water movement?

Current water movement:
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Possible with mod:

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EDIT: Those diagrams aren't quite as I'd hoped, but should illusrate what I mean.

 

[Sky042]

Does it have a spraybar option?

 

[@ombomb]

Not 100% sure what you mean by spray bar, but I think the answer is yes, and I'm already using it.

The outlet on mine is a 10ish inch tube with about 8 holes along it which all shoot small jets of water out.

EDIT:

Just googled it and it's definitely a spray bar.

 

[Sky042]

I'm sure you're fine then.
There is such a thing as too much current or oxygenation depending on species in your tank and what sort of plants.

 

[AncientMariner]

Have you tried cutting a piece of the standard green tubing so you can extend it sligthly?

I did this for my spray bar on the ' Eheim 2128' as I was struggling to fix it in my tank.

 

[@ombomb]

Yes I tried that ancient, but due to the corners it goes round, the line always ends up kinked, blocking the flow. I think what I am probably best of doing is, rather than attacking my hood with a hacksaw, buying a couple of the Eheim corner pieces and some additional tubing.

Any idea where I could find them online?

 

[john5748]

Where is your spraybar placed in relation to your water level ie, above or below the surface and by how much?

If all you need are the corner adaptors or any other bits you are missing you can check the Eheim website out for the part number you need and then order them from your LFS for a few pounds each, not very much for that kind of external filter which I also have and find very good.

 

[AncientMariner]

Try these guys - www.aquatics-online.co.uk

Search under Eheim spare parts. (Sorry can't do proper link thingy's!)

 

[@ombomb]

I've just found what I needed here: http/www.fishandfins.co.uk/

Have ordered two corner pieces and some spare hose which should so the job a treat! Thanks for the help!

The spray bar is currently just above the surface of the water, creating plenty of movement and not too many bubbles. I find the slight trickle of the water very soothing in the back ground.