Equipment Review and Discussion :: filter media

[stray_647]

I have a fluval canister filter. I was wondering if I could use generic activated carbon or other generic media that removes nitrates? Does it have to be fluval media?

[missibsu]

What do you mean by generic? Does it have a brand name at all? I've used my fluval media in my xp3 filter without problems. With generics I would question the products ability to work at the highest level. However, I have never used a generic product, so I don't know that for sure.

[stray_647]

I should have clarified. What I meant was if I could use a filter media from another company with my fluval canister filter.

[marisa]

If it will fit, I don't see why not. I just bought some Fluval media to use with another brand of filter, and I use XP3 biomedia in other filters as well.

[stray_647]

Have any of you tried those crysals that emove ammonia in your filter? Are they any good and would you guys recommen it?

[marisa]

Are you referring to Ammolock? I don't use these products. They will absorb ammonia to a point, but once they become saturated, they'll start to release ammonia back into the water.

It would be better just to test the water for ammonia (nitrite and nitrate as well) and do water changes/partial water changes if needed.

[stray_647]

I actually meant the zeolite

[marisa]

I have a packet of it, I think. It came with the filter. I've never used it, so I can't comment on it.

[stray_647]

A couple of you guys have complained that the polishing pad in the xp filters clog up the filter. I know some of you have said that the pad is not necessary. Is there any other pad you can use instead to polish the water?

[marisa]

I tried making some once using the stuff you can buy at Petsmart. I found the filter clogged more quickly (output diminished) as well. I don't use any. Why do you want to polish the water? Have you tried not using one to see how different the water is?

[stray_647]

Well, my xp 3 still contains the 2 micro pads with only slight diminish in the water flow. But as most of you think this pad is unecessary, I think I'll remove it during my next water change and see the difference. I might as well add more ceramic rings to take up the space.

[marisa]

Extra biomedia is a good idea.

[FishTechNH]

As mentioned above stay away from the ammo-lock and other such items. I'd even reccommend keeping your fine filter pads in, this will be a good indicator for you for when there is too much debris in the filter. The more often you clean your mechanical filter media the less debris, waste product, and uneaten food. With too much loose media in canister filters it gives a false sence that the filter is clean. The more frequently you clean it the better.