Fluval Canister

[frankthetank]

I've been mulling over the idea of changing my filter method on my 46bow. I currently use my live rock (50-60 pounds), a protein skimmer and two maxijet 900's along with a penguin external filter. I've done some reading on the fluval canisters and feel pretty good about them.
Anyone else having success with these filters on a reef tank?
I think the 305 would be appropriate for my tank size, but I am attempted to go ahead and get the 405. Advice?

 

[costa13]

I have a Fluval 104 on my 20gallon. I only run media in it once every 3 weeks. The only problem with cansiter filters is that junk just builds up in them causing you nitrate levels to rise. So if you do get one make sure you clean it every week.

 

[cowfishrule]

why dont you get the 305 and fill it with lr rubble?
cannister filters will work if you work them.
clean 'em weekly, and you should have no problems.

 

[frankthetank]

Originally Posted by COWFISHRULE
why dont you get the 305 and fill it with lr rubble?
cannister filters will work if you work them.
clean 'em weekly, and you should have no problems.
Good idea. I hadn't even thought of the LR rubble. The 305 has 3 compartments for media. I could use carbon and LR rubble in the other two? I have some bio max media too.

 

[cowfishrule]

in my old 304, i had carbon on the bottom, and cut the bottoms out of the top chamber so i could fill # 2 and 3 with lr rubble.
i had to get a 305 (newer model)
i didnt cut any bottoms, just in case i needed to swap out some lr for something else (emergency use)

 

[dave2208]

I'VE BEEN USING 405 FOR OVER A YEAR ON FRESH WATER TANK.. THE FILTER
ITSELF TAKES ALOT OF MAINTANCE.(CLEANING EVERY WEEK OR WATER CLOUDS UP ON 7TH AND 8TH DAY)) JUST THOUGHT YOU SHOULD KNOW.
TANKS ONLY 75 GAL....