Equipment Review and Discussion :: Zeolite - Ammonia remover?

[bgriffiths99]

So here is the issue I hear but do not have a clear response yet. I have heard that Ammonia is probably one if not thee biggest water problems facing Sliders. So, is the Zeolite Crystals a good form of media to use in a canister filter? I have a Fluval 305, which means I have 3 different compartments for filter besides the manual filtration. Right now I'm using carbon, zeolite and biomax. Can someone help me understand the use of Zeolite-Ammonia Remover for RES? I also have a painted turtle with my RES. Doubt that matters. Thanks!

[mikee]

bgriff -- You need to get your biological filter going properly. The nitrofication process will do it just fine. The Fluval is just a 185 gallon gph. What ever you tank size if you need 5 or more times your water volume turn over per hour:gph.

[marisa]

Welcome. I don't think the Zeolite is necessary especially if you've got a filter that's appropriate for the tank size (how big is the tank?) with adequate biomedia and a tank that's large enough for the turtles (how big are they?) Ammonia removers work until they become saturated and then start to release ammonia back into the water.

If you think you've got a problem with ammonia, get an ammonia testing kit and test the water.

[bgriffiths99]

I Have a 55 gallon tank, with about 50 gallons full. The turtles are about 5" for the slider and 4" for the painted. I currently have an ammonia monitor installed within the tank, and so far the levels are safe and haven't risen yet. So I'm sure I need a stronger filter, but the finances are preventing me from going out and just flipping $150 more for one at the moment. Thank you so much for your responses. Keep the advice coming!

[mikee]

bgriff -- I would suggest, when you get the money, that you get a filter of at least 350 gph for the 55 gallon tank. The canister is the easiest to clean and get changed out. Your investment will be well wouth it. m.

[marisa]

A larger tank and a better (canister) filter would really be good, when you can afford them. Look for a used tank in classifieds, garage sales or on-line in places like www.craigslist.org

[bgriffiths99]

So we have established that Zeolite is not needed. Since I have 3 compartments in my canister filter, should I put 2 compartments with the bio media and 1 with carbon or what? How should I arrange my compartments?

[mikee]

b-grif -- The 305 should have 1-foam, 2-carbon 3-biomax in that order. The more biomax (ceramic rings) the better. First of all you need a larger filter pump to get your gph up to about 350.

[bgriffiths99]

Thanks for the help, however, I have 3 compartments BESIDES the foam. So foam is already number 1, then I have 3 MORE that are empty. Should I go with Carbon - 1, then BioMax 2, and 3? Thanks

[marisa]

Then more biomedia is good.

[mikee]

More biomedia and a larger filter "GPH"