The Puffer Forum

Just got a used Fluval FX5. It was used in a SW setup.

Cleaning it so far goes well ( using vinegar )

I got couple questions since this is my first canister filter.

Can the foam filter blocks surrounding each level can be reused ( from SW to FW )

What filter media would you use on each level. ( looking for more filtration then flow )

You will need to soak the foams and rinse massively to use in f/w, it would be easier to buy new ones tbh.

bertie 83 wrote:You will need to soak the foams and rinse massively to use in f/w, it would be easier to buy new ones tbh.

Easier but not cheap. One 3 pack is 16.99 and I need 3 of them.



Edit; I forgot too mention that this filter was not used for about 2 months and every thing in side is dried out.

I would buy new foams, they will need a good wash in warm water if you do wish to reuse them

Just give'em a good rinse and they'll be fine. I bought a used one a couple of years ago that was used in s/w. Never had a problem with them. I rinsed mine once a month and used the same sponges for a couple of years. As far as bio-filtering goes, i just filled all 3 baskets with ceramic rings. I rinsed them once a month too, only in tank water taken out during a water change. The sponges I just cleaned under tap water.

IMO Don't buy anything for the trays because they don't help all much for an established system. Instead of buying media, buy new foams.

Contrary to Terrance, I would say go for the bio media, rings/balls types. They may look plain and does nothing, but in fact house a lot more bacterial as they have a very large surface area. Canisters are designed for them as well. If u wan, the first tray that comes in contact with water u can have sponge(mechanical filter) the rest would be bio media( biological filter).

I have a sponge filter thing on my inlet and my canister are all bio. Will upload a pic when I have time.

The sponges have adequate surface area for all biological filtering needs.

If you opt for media instead of sponge, then put them in bag for easy rinsing because they easily trap waste and gunk.

Probably everyone swears by different products. If that works for u.

I have this on my inlet, its sponge inside and get rinsed every week. It keeps my canister relatively clean which I rinse every month.

Sponge media I use more as mechanical filtration & biological, would be the ceramic rings.

Cleaning is done

I'm still debating on media selection

#1 Top media basket will have carbon bags
#2 Middle media basket ceramic rings
#3 Bottom media basket ??

I will skip the carbon though..

+1 on skipping carbon for FW. If you are using it in addition to a HOB filter, then just fill every chamber with biological media.

Pufferpunk wrote:+1 on skipping carbon for FW. If you are using it in addition to a HOB filter, then just fill every chamber with biological media.

OK no carbon.

I will eliminate HOBs. I got 3 of them.