External Filters are where it's at but all of those high-end-priced are over rated. My Jebo was $65 compared to $120 for others on eBay. Had it for 4yrs now and its still a champ!
These filters are the worst. I have been fighting with one for months, even had it replaced by the manufacturer. Every seal leaks, they prime for crap, the intake and return are in sections that simply slide into one another and also simply slide out from one another when you are not around to stop it from shooting outside the aquarium and dumping 30 gallons onto your floor. Above all they are a huge fire hazard as they leak water from the area the power cord comes out of. Get a Magnum!
I have a 75 gallon. My filtration are 2- 110 aqua clear filters and 1 Rena xp2 cannister filter. The Rena filter was given to me without the long intake tube and strainer. I went to Home Depot and rigged up an intake tube. Also, I took the spray tube off to have just the 90 blowing out water. Then I cut the clear tubing shorter so it would prime easier. I was having problems with it priming . The people that had it before me had way to much tubing.
@vespers119 Air trapped in the top of the filter is normal, most of it will work its way out over time. As long as the filter primed, and is working, it should not be a problem. not sure what you mean by the box floating at the bottom? are you sure that you installed all the parts correctly, including the lid to the top container? everything should nest together, and not be able to move around once the filter is closed.
@ThatPetPlace yes i am sure that i have ti together correctly. it's an XP and only has two boxes for filter media. when filled with water, it rises a little and doesn't stay on the bottom on the outer filter box. it seems to be running very well now, and i don't see any air at the top anymore.
hi, i just primed the filter and it siphoned water into it. i turned it on when it stopped and it seems to be running well, but i'm wondering how high the water level in it should be?
this is an xp1 and the water line goes right to the bottom of the top/ motor. there seems to be a bit of air there. is this okay?
@ThatPetPlace i have a 55 with a top fin 60 hob filter...i also have 2 oscars do u think i need more filtration? if so what would u recomend would be best for me? thanks
You're correct and I have deleted my comment. I just bought mine and saw the detailed diagram that shows the water going down the sides and then going up the center. Coarse media pads go at the very bottom.
The Rena Filstar XP 2 canister filter is exactly 10.5 inches tall, 9.5 inches long, and 8.25 inches wide. It is a great filter. I ordered the XP 3 and it should be delivered soon. Please read the instructions before using it. I never read the instructions but for this product I will for sure. Cheers! =)
im thinking of buying a fluval external filter but im worried that the intake and outtake tubes would interfier with the hood as i would have to cut a bit off the back ... any ideas ?
@chrissywoo5 Most hoods and canopies can be cut or adjusted to accommodate filter tubing. Canister filters place the bulk of the filter below the aquarium and would interfere far less (and generally provide better filtration than) hang-on power filters.
@stifmiceter, thanks for your question. This is really a matter of opinion. Our staff recommends the Rena, Fluval and Eheim, and Marineland filters equally, and these brands have a long history of performance.
Hi, I am looking to purchase a canister filter. My main issue is I do not want one that leaks or is time consuming to maintain. So far, I like the Fluvals and Eheims, but do you have any suggestions or could you post a video comparing the different brands of canister filters (noting pros and cons) so I can make a good choice? Thanks.
@sspamer, In terms of maintenance and quality, the Rena, Fluval, and Eheim canisters all have very good reputations for quality and ease of service. they all have shut off valves, so the canister can easily be transported to a sink or work area for cleaning. The biggest difference between the three, is that the Rena and Ehiem use a basket only design, and the Fluval has a foam block cartridge along with the media baskets. I hope that helps, unfortunately we do not have plans for other videos.
magnificent pointers - nice one, anyone tested Max factors most recent range of products?! it is hard to obtain quality makeup in Gerty but you can get some wonderful cosmetics samples by going to 'Gratis Makeup Samples'! there ace.
i have question if i get this kinda canister do i need to use the other filtration cuz i see some ppol use this and use those filtration hang on the back of the aquarium! is this better to buy or do i need to buy this one and the other filter pls reply !!
@lovelypinay26: You are not required to run a second filter, in this case a a hang-on-the-back or power filter, when you run a canister filter. Most tanks will be fine with just an appropriately sized canister filter. Some people will run both filters simply as extra filtration capacity for their tank. Simple water tests will show if just using a canister filter is adequate for maintaining your aquarium's water quality. Good luck.
Ok so i bought the: Tetra Water Wonders 1.5 Gallon Aquarium Kit and for me I have a problem with the filter. Can anyone help me? The water wont come out of the filter
@redking133, chemical filtration will have to be replaced once exhausted, which generally takes a few months depending on your livestock load. Biological media rarely, if ever needs replaced
Canister filters are not designed to run multiple tanks, they need to draw and return water within the same body of water. It would not be possible to maintain water volume balance in two tanks and a single filter.
Who's to say you can't have to outlets and two inlet pipes. The only problem with running off the one canister filter is the flow will not be as strong and that disease would spread like wildfire between the two tanks.
he is partly right and partly wrong, Yes you can use one canister for one set up, but the canister has to be twice as big, 6x as big if you have turtles, and mainly all you have to do is may then input n output have y-connections, go to lowes and make a diy mod on the hoses. But you just truly are better off on small home aquariums (125gal and under) to have sperate filters per tank. The big aquariums pet go to yeah got it set up like 4tanks per one huge filter. So hope that answers it.
Thank you! I bought one of these today and didn't get any instructions. Naturally, their customer service was 8 to 5 Eastern and I'm in Oregon. And, as it is at my son's new apartment, there was no internet hookup yet to look for info. My place - 2 miles away but printer is on the fritz. This video was great!
this should be the correct order, the fine media will pick out fine particulates and the water will then trickle through the biological and coarse media.
Coarse media filter should be used first for water to pass through and sort out larger detritus, then finer media as the bottom/last guard before water is passed back into aquarium
Help! I have a 44 gal. corner/half hex. tank. Want to have saltwater fish & corals eventually. I planed on using rena xp2 with Live Rock & protein skimmer~ (uv light too?) with power head for h20 movement. Will the XP2 be enough or should I buy the XP3 or would that be over kill for a 44gal. tank? Advice? Thanks!!
omg canister for that ammount of gallons a canister for around a 300-400 gallon canister filter. power filters is for anything under 80 even though u can get a 110 gallon power filter.. u should always go more then the ammount of gallons u have
Pistol Shrimp are reef safe, in that they will not harm your corals. I would not reccomend the use of an undergravel filter for your reef tank. The best way to keep your tank clean is with good water motion that suspends all the waste in the water column, and a quality protein skimmer and filtration system to remove the suspended waste from the water.
is a pistol shrimp safe for a reef tankm and how do you keep the tank clean under you corals,and does reverse flow with a under gravel filter work well
It really depends upon what kind of corals you intend to keep in the aquarium, and to some degree, what equipment you wish to use. For a 30 gallon aquarium, I would reccomend a T5 light fixture, to try to reduce the amount of heat introduced into the aquarium. Using a Metal Halide fixture, may require the use of a chiller to keep the tank cool enough. There are several wattage T5 fixtures that will fit your tank. Research the light demands of the corals you want keep to help choose a model.
Yes, most definitely a canister filter may be used in a marine tank. As with any kind of marine tank filtration, be sure to monitor your water parameters and adjust media accordingly.
Adding the canister will be beneficial either way as it will eventually be seeded as additional biological filtration. The model you choose depends on the size of your power filter and the bioload you plan on stocking, but either should be sufficient as a backup for biological and additional mechanical filtration. If you plan on removing the power filter eventually go for the XP3.
Cloudy water and sour smell is caused by the bacteria blooms that occur when a tank is cycling. Both freshwater and saltwater tanks experience changes in chemistry when the ammonia, nitrite and nitrate levels spike as a result of the cycling process of the tank. This cycle has to occur to establish the biological balance in an aquarium. The water should clear/stop smelling on its own once the water chemistry in the tank stabilizes. Do not disturb the filter media, do any water changes ect
You may want to add some nitrifying bacteria to the tank like Cycle or biozyme to help the biological establish. Do not add any more fish until the tank has established, the you can add more slowly. As long as the filter is large enough for the tank/bio load, the tank should cycle in 6-8 weeks. Test the chemistry, and you can monitor the cycle, you may see some spikes in ammonia and nitrite. The cycle is probably complete when only nitrates show on tests.
The canister filter provides mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration and is a good fit for most medium to large aquariums as long as you get the right size for the job. You still need additional equipment like a heater and possibly more aeration or circulation depending on tank size, and inhabitants, but a spray bar can provide surface agitation and aeration if adjusted properly on the return portion of the filter. This is a popular and efficient type of filtration.
What does a canister filter do in the long run? Do you need anything besides the filter? And will this aerate the tank at all? I am a newbie to fish stuff, so sorry. :P
No, a canister will not help with cooling your aquarium water. Placing a fan near the aquarium, blowing over the water surface, or use of a chiller is the best way to reduce water temperatures.
also, i did the business card test. i ran the card around the stand between the aquarium and the top of the stand. there are no gaps, so the aquarium is in full contact with the stand. so that made me happy. then i ran the card between the floor and the stand. no gaps either. so, at least i know now, that it is the floor that is unlevel, and not a strangely built stand causing the unlevelness.
my aquarium water, is a 1/4 to 1/2 inch higher on the left. its 55 gallons so its 4 feet long. i am afraid that the unlevelness of the aquarium will crack it. i dont want to use shims to level it, so i would be moving it to the basement. most of the concrete in the basement is level, so i have plenty of spots to move it to. do you think i should move it? or is it ok?
it has a tempered bottom which worries me the most.
You should make sure that the aquarium is as level as possible, so that the pressure of the water is dispersed evenly. I would reccomend that you find a way to level the stand that the aquarium is on, or relocate it to a level location. a 1/4 to 1/2" is not a huge difference, but you are better safe than sorry.
Those two filters combined should provide sufficient filtration, but will be a little more work, since youre dealing with 2 systems instead of a single system. Combined, they should be able to handle an average bio-load.
I have a 90 Gallon Aquarium it is empty now, but I am making preparations to do a saltwater aquarium with coral. Is the canister filter better for this type of tank or should I go with HOB's? Do I need a sump if I use a Canister Filter or is it needed only if I chose HOB's? Also I have no canopy how should I set up the lighting should it suspended from the ceiling or mounted on top of the aquarium?
If you are planning a reef aquarium you MAY be able to get away with a canister, but a sump will give you room for a good skimmer and a little more versatility/flexibility for equipment and maintenanceHOB are not recommended for reef aquaria. I would recommend the sump with the canister if you are going that direction. The lighting mount is a matter of you taste, there are advantages and disadvantages to both. top mounts can be cumbersome during maintenance, ceiling mounts may be too high.
Canister Filters are generally slightly more expensive than Power/Hang-on Filters, but provide considerably more versatility, volume, and overall filtration performance. At That Fish Place, an Emperor Power Filter rated for 80 gallon tanks is 56.99, while a Rena XP2 Canister Filter rated for 75 gallons is currently priced at 155.99.
I have 75G african cichlids fish tank, with 9 fish total right now. I will be adding 6 more in the future. Do you think rena XP3 will be enough for my load, or should i get additional filtration? Thanks
The XP3 should be adequate filtration, but you will still need to monitor your water quality and perform regular water changes to keep up with the load, especially when the fish are mature. That number of cichlids in a 75 is risky, but smaller species like Mbuna should have adequate space.
Thank you so much for doing this video. I bought a used Rena Filstar XP3 but no instructions and had only used a HOB filter in the past so had no clue how to use this. Good old Google brought me here and I learned everything I needed to know. Thank you!
The interval at which you will need to change or clean the filter pads will depend on how much waste is produced in your tank. The mechanical media will need to be cleaned or changed as it becomes clogged and flow is reduced, in most cases this is every 2-4 weeks. Carbon and most other chemical media should be changed once per month, or per manufacturers reccomendations to acheive maximum performance
do you have to change your water often thats in the tank after using the canister filter. the reason I'm asking I have a water turtle and I change the water every week and I have hope that I would not have to change it as often
Thanks for your question. A canister filter will reduce the frequency of water changes, but is not a substitute for them. Turtles especially are notoriously dirty and give off huge amounts of ammonia. Regardless if you're using a canister or not, the best way to tell when to water change is to test for ammonia, nitrate and nitrite. When these levels become high, the time is right to change.
The combination of a power filter and a canister filter is not overkill for your aquarium, it will give you great flexibility in you media choices, as well as protection should one of the filters stop running for some reason. Oscars and Jack Demseys can grow very large,and produce alot of waste, the extra filtration will be put to good use.
Great tutorial. After viewing this video and always questioning the need for a canister filter, I immediately purchased a Rena XP2.
I have two medium Oscars and a small Jack Dempsey in a 55 gallon tank running an Emperor 400 and XP2. I do eventually plan on upgrading to a 75 or 90 gallon aquarium. Is the use of both filters in my 55gal overkill?
The interval at which you will need to change or clean the filter pads will depend on how much waste is produced in your tank. The mechanical media will need to be cleaned or changed as it becomes clogged and flow is reduced, in most cases this is every 2-4 weeks. Carbon and most other chemical media should be changed once per month, or per manufacturers reccomendations to acheive maximum performance.
What size canister filter did you install? An oversized filter on a tank that small, may have simply been too much water movement. Was the original filter left running while the new canister was added? Another issue you may have been experiencing was a water quality problem, switching filters will remove your source of nitrifying bacteria that controls your water conditions. If the canister is of approriate size, there should be no reason that your fish should have an issue with adapting.
The filter is a fluval 103.Yes, the original filter maintained running throughout the process.I have additional bacteria in case the filter does indeed remove any..
I have a 12gallon marine Eclipse tank which i purchased not to long ago. The aquarium contained a fountain filter on the lid which I had been using for a while with fish. Recently I purchased a canister filter and the next day after instaling it my fish appeared to be scared and refused to eat. I left the filter on the whole day and their attitudes stayed the same. Therefore I tured it off and closed the valves but I am wondering if its possible for them to adapt to having the filter on??
I am not sure what you mean by aerate the tank. Some canister filters will come with a venturi attachment on the return line that will inject air into the water, most will not. The surface agitation that is cause by the water movement will increase the disolved oxygen in the water, especially if the water returning to the tank breaks the surface, or is pointed across the water surface. True areation is best accomplished with the use of an air pump and air stone in the aquarium.
Canisters can be used for freshwater or saltwater aquariums. With a saltwater aquarium, I would reccomend the use of a protein skimmer, along with the canister for a more efficient system. Canister filters are especially usefull in marine aquariums because of their ease of use with chemical filtration media.
That really depends upon what you are keeping in your tank. A lighly stocked community tank is easily handled by a filter rated for the size aquarium it is on. If you have a heavily stocked tank,or a predator tank, then you made need to use larger or multiple filters to maintain water quality. You water quality is going to tell you what your needs are. If you are having trouble keeping the tank clean, then you should consider more,or better filtration.
There are many choices to choose from, especially with canister filters. You can use either a single large canister, or multiple smaller units for a 125 gallon aquarium, just make sure that you are using filters that can easily handle your water volume and biological load. One of the great uses for a canister filter is to add extra filtration to an existing tank when it is needed.
i have 55g tank and i have 55g canister filter, some people say, I need to get a bigger filter, such as 75g filter for my 55gallon filter, is that necessary?
It is best to always better to have an over qualified filter depending on your fish, however if your tank is clean and it is not dirty there is no need to upgrade.
The spraybar on the return of the canister filter will provide oxygen for the aquarium through surface aggitation. You can adjust the amount of flow through the spraybar and the angle of the spray. It is suggested that the bar be positioned at or near the surface of the water so the spray breaks the surface. The flow and angle can be adjusted to reduce splash and the amount of disruption to the rate that suits your needs.
Your aquarium is little over 24 gallons, and yes, the addition of a canister filter will help you. Canister filters are excellent mechanical filters, an will help with trapping the waste that is accumulating in your plants. The smallest Rena filter, the XP1, will be plenty for your aquarium.
I not sure in gallon, I but my aquarium measure at 75 cm x 35 x 35. Now usig a hook on fountain type filter. Setting with sand, water plants, 9 small wild fish, 8, yamatos shrimp. I change the water once in 2days, ( 10 - 15%) and 30% everyweeks. Main problem, I notice the plants capture lots of particals on and off. It will land on the plant, and get clotted. Can canister filter helps here? i am quite tired of this water change. What model you recommend. Many thanks.
It depends on how the canister filter will be used. A sump works by gravity, and is typically supplied water from either an internal or external overflow box. A canister filter is a presurised closed loop system, that needs to draw water from deep in the aquarium. You can use a canister filter instead of a sump, as long as it is installed properly. I would not use a canister with an overflow box, if too much water evaporates the canister will draw air and stop working.
The filter screen should be the last component in the top basket of the filter. There are two screens that go into the top basket; One goes on top of the Biological media, then the carbon bag and polishing filter pad, then the second screen. Depending on which model Rena XP canister filter you are using(XP2 model shown), the number of baskets, and the arangement will differ.
The biological media is sold seperately, there are several to choose from, in the video we chose to use ceramic rings
Does the bag of charcoal go on top or does the filter screen? It seems you took it out in a different order than you place it back in the video? Also do you have to buy the ceramic pieces separately? Thanks in advance.
Good god little girl i wish you could be mine, anyways i just got a Fluval 405, its on my 29 gal, and i do agree you could be doing something way better with your degree.
The Fluval 305 is rated for up to a 70 gallon aquarium, so it would be a good choice for your 55 gallon aquarium. If you plan to only keep one oscar in the tank, and perform the regular maintenance that you say, then you should be able to maintain water quality. That being said, you can not over filter your aquarium. If you plan to keep other fish along with your Oscar, then you may want to think about going with the larger filter.
i have a 55 gallon that i am going to put 1 oscar in. i know that some people say that it is still to small of a tank. but i think that as long as i dont over feed, do weekly 25% water changes and have good filtration, i can succesfully keep an oscar. my question is, do you think a fluval 305 will work or should i get the 405?
The Fluval 405 is rated up to 100 gallons, coupled with regular aquarium maintenace, this filter is big enough for your 90 gallon aquarium. The Fluval and Rena canisters are comparable in quality and function. Your tank will take from 4 to 6 weeks to completely cycle from the time you set it up, if the cloudiness that you are experiencing is a bacterial bloom, then it will disapear as the tank matures.
Cloudy water for 3-weeks.I have a 90 gallon fresh water tank, with a FLUVAL 405, that i set up on 8-2.On 8-9 I introduced 3-rosey barbs that i have bearly feed. have used 3/4 of a 16oz bottle of cycle.Nothing is out of the ordinary as far as PH,amon.nitrite or nitrate.The tank is not in direct sunlight or near any vents.The temp. is maintained between 78-80 degrees.would the bigger RENA help me? Is the fluval 405 a good filter?
Cloudy water is fairly common during the first few weeks of starting up a new tank. The cloudyness is often reffered to as "new tank syndrome". Even with adding cycle to your aquarium it will take some time for the bacteria colony in your canister to grow to a point that it can consume the fish and food waste, even with only a few fish. The cloudiness is caused by free floating bacteria in the water that grow to consume the waste. This may last for a couple of weeks untill you filter matures.
dont buy this model i have trouble with this model rena xp3 i pay 230 $ plus taxe .I have 3 tank in my room . My 2 other filter i pay 129 $taxe included 100$ in less for astro-2212 by aqua tropical you dont pay for this rena xp3
Thanks for your comment. The filters you are comparing are rated for two different size tanks: the Rena for up to 175 gal. & the Astro up to 100 gal, so it's difficult to compare prices. I'm unfamiliar with Astro filters. Though they appear to be similar to Eheim models in appearance, I can make no claims on their reliability one way or another. The Rena is an established name in the hobby. Also, we sell the XP3 for 169.99.
Why c-360 its 360 gph and its says up to 100 gallons....and the rena xp3 its 350 gph and its says for up to 175 gallons tank?????? i want to buy one but i am confuse!!!! help please!!!
These are the advertised ratings from the manufacturers, unfortunately there are no "industry standards" for filter ratings. Manufacturers test and rate their products individually, with their own criteria. You want to turn over your aquarium volume a minimum of 3-5 times per hour. If you have a heavily stocked and fed aquarium, you should consider an oversized filter for your aquarium. I think the Marinland C-360 has a more reasonable rating than the Rena XP3. Both are excellent filters.
For fish that are predators and can get fairly large, I would recommend that an oversized canister filter is used, especially if you have several of them. The additional biological and mechanical filtration will help keep up with the mess that Oscars can make. Oscars have big appetites and a knack for rearranging things in your tank. In this case I would recommend the Rena XP3, the Marineland C-360, or an equivalent oversized Fluval or Eheim.
Thanks for the video. I have a mature 20Gal fresh tank running a marineland filter and I'm doing weekly tank cleanup with a Vortex water polisher. I'm thinking that I want to get rid of all of that and go to a canister filter. I'm going back and forth between Rena and Eheim. Any recommendations?
Thanks for posting. This may seem a bit biased, but our guys at TFP really do recommend the Rena over the Eheim. Our reasoning for this has to do with the surface area of both: the Eheims are cylindrical, the Rena's are squat & square allowing for more. They are both equally as quiet and dependable. The Rena has recently introduced an inline heater too (sold seperately), which is pretty cool. If you'd like a more detailed account, give the store a call at 1-888-That Pet. Thanks!
wow this was an awsome video!! I am ready to buy one, just need to know what size to add to my 29 gallon tank. I run 2 large back filters but want something that will not stir my water for floating plants.
Also how often and how do I change my media ? great video,very helpful!!
The Rena XP-1 Canister Filter is rated for tanks up to 45 gallons. The spray bar that comes with it doesn't tend to create as much flow on the top as a power filter return, either. As for media, there are a lot of variables involved there such as fish load, media type, etc. Our best suggestion would be to just do regular water changes and tests until you can decide on a media change cycle that works for your tank. Thanks for your comment!
That Fish Place does sell the Cascade 1000. It's item number 237752. Penn Plax, the manufacturer, makes good general purpose quality equipment, and the Cascade 1000 is a good filter. It's comparable to similar-sized Filstar and Fluval models.
now im thinking to buy rena or fluval which one is beter in cleaning the water also the self priming issue. their prices are very close, do they provide all 3 filteration requirments, also can you please post a video to see how this rena works like how quiet it is. i just want to know which is overally the best long lasting filter something that i wouldnt regret paying for.
Thanks for your suggestion. Of the two filters, the Fluval is the easier to prime, and has a built-in siphon pump. The Rena uses the method in the video, and this works well, but is more difficult to perform. There really is no noise difference between the two, and both provide 3-stage bio, chem, mech filtration. Media options are endless and totally customizable as well with easy-to-fill media baskets. The Filstar model also now offers an in-line heater option, sold separately.
Great video! I recently purchased a used 100Gal aquarium setup. I'm using this for saltwater. It came with a Fluval 405 and a Rena Filstar XP3. That seems really overkill. Is there any reason why I should run both of them? Don't they basically both do the same thing? I also have a bakpak2 protein skimmer.
Thanks for your comment! You generally can't have too much filtration. If due to space restriction you don't want to run all that equipment, try running less and keeping a tight eye on water parameters. If nitrates, ammonia and all other water parameters stay under control, than you'll get your answer. If you're planning on a lot of fish though, two filters and a skimmer may be required to keep it safe. The key, as always is water tests.
hello i keep discus in my bare bottom tank and only use sponge filter, the tank is 75 gallon, i recently stop using my penguin 350 bio wheel and since then the fish have started to get sick i do 50% water change almost every day, what filter would you recommend other than the sponge filter, im thinking to buy a HOT magnum hang on the back convertible canister filter, is this a good filter?
Actually, That Fish Place offers a fun, hands-on and challenging environment for any marine biologist. Our 35,000 gallon retail fish room rivals many public aquariums and houses an ever-changing variety of freshwater and saltwater fish and invertebrates. Their expertise and interests are indulged daily as new species are constantly arriving. Adapting to the husbandry challenges of so many creatures keeps Sarah, as well as our other 6 marine biologists constantly busy.
She's a dumb american ! Like american cars
aleena4884 1 week ago
Hi lady, are you a robot? Do you come from japan?
Laevi1337 2 weeks ago
hey guys just installed my canister how far should the output be from the top of the water PLEASE HELP ASAP!!!!!
RoughNeckRage 1 month ago
Thanks for making this video! :)
VirgilDara 2 months ago
External Filters are where it's at but all of those high-end-priced are over rated. My Jebo was $65 compared to $120 for others on eBay. Had it for 4yrs now and its still a champ!
o0OFeeNO0o 4 months ago
These filters are the worst. I have been fighting with one for months, even had it replaced by the manufacturer. Every seal leaks, they prime for crap, the intake and return are in sections that simply slide into one another and also simply slide out from one another when you are not around to stop it from shooting outside the aquarium and dumping 30 gallons onto your floor. Above all they are a huge fire hazard as they leak water from the area the power cord comes out of. Get a Magnum!
jwerner2 6 months ago
how long does it keep ur tank clean
ilikebabyturtle 7 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
I am sorry you have such a large forehead
kryspie88 7 months ago
Comment removed
kryspie88 7 months ago
i bought a 4 stage and im pretty sure its been a royal pain in the ass the last week
yourhommie 9 months ago
this filter is nice got one for my 30 gallon and 200 gal
Superthecod 9 months ago
I have a 75 gallon. My filtration are 2- 110 aqua clear filters and 1 Rena xp2 cannister filter. The Rena filter was given to me without the long intake tube and strainer. I went to Home Depot and rigged up an intake tube. Also, I took the spray tube off to have just the 90 blowing out water. Then I cut the clear tubing shorter so it would prime easier. I was having problems with it priming . The people that had it before me had way to much tubing.
MrIAN1077 10 months ago
and the box containing the filter media is floating off the bottom of the main container.
vespers119 10 months ago
@vespers119 Air trapped in the top of the filter is normal, most of it will work its way out over time. As long as the filter primed, and is working, it should not be a problem. not sure what you mean by the box floating at the bottom? are you sure that you installed all the parts correctly, including the lid to the top container? everything should nest together, and not be able to move around once the filter is closed.
ThatPetPlace 8 months ago
@ThatPetPlace yes i am sure that i have ti together correctly. it's an XP and only has two boxes for filter media. when filled with water, it rises a little and doesn't stay on the bottom on the outer filter box. it seems to be running very well now, and i don't see any air at the top anymore.
thank you for your reply.
vespers119 8 months ago
hi, i just primed the filter and it siphoned water into it. i turned it on when it stopped and it seems to be running well, but i'm wondering how high the water level in it should be?
this is an xp1 and the water line goes right to the bottom of the top/ motor. there seems to be a bit of air there. is this okay?
vespers119 10 months ago
how can i start the siphon in the intake tube
hamoon007 10 months ago
can i put my hose in your canister??
THEZOOLOGIST123 11 months ago
Do you fill both tubes before turning it on?
birtahrund 1 year ago
@birtahrund, you'll only need to fill the intake tube (the one with the removable cap on it). Good luck!
ThatPetPlace 1 year ago
@ThatPetPlace i have a 55 with a top fin 60 hob filter...i also have 2 oscars do u think i need more filtration? if so what would u recomend would be best for me? thanks
Bajaheat 10 months ago
Inspired by the DIY filters ive seen around youtube, i decided to make my own!!
not bad for first try!
/watch?v=_wjK_DvXtwA
VertigaDesignMEDIA 1 year ago
I had this filter for a 4 mos. And I could not get it to work. But thanks to the knowledgeable Sarah my turtles now have clean water .
Joeybsmooth 1 year ago
Comment removed
buddhasknowbest 1 year ago
@buddhasknowbest: The filter in this video works from bottom to top. You want the coarse media pads under the fine pads for this model.
nitr0burn 1 year ago
@nitr0burn
You're correct and I have deleted my comment. I just bought mine and saw the detailed diagram that shows the water going down the sides and then going up the center. Coarse media pads go at the very bottom.
buddhasknowbest 1 year ago
Comment removed
buddhasknowbest 1 year ago
How tall is the XP 2 filter?
PitNamedLexus 1 year ago
@PitNamedLexus
The Rena Filstar XP 2 canister filter is exactly 10.5 inches tall, 9.5 inches long, and 8.25 inches wide. It is a great filter. I ordered the XP 3 and it should be delivered soon. Please read the instructions before using it. I never read the instructions but for this product I will for sure. Cheers! =)
buddhasknowbest 1 year ago
im thinking of buying a fluval external filter but im worried that the intake and outtake tubes would interfier with the hood as i would have to cut a bit off the back ... any ideas ?
chrissywoo5 1 year ago
@chrissywoo5 Most hoods and canopies can be cut or adjusted to accommodate filter tubing. Canister filters place the bulk of the filter below the aquarium and would interfere far less (and generally provide better filtration than) hang-on power filters.
ThatPetPlace 1 year ago
@ThatPetPlace Hi, what is the best canister filter on the market ?
stifmiceter 1 year ago
@stifmiceter, thanks for your question. This is really a matter of opinion. Our staff recommends the Rena, Fluval and Eheim, and Marineland filters equally, and these brands have a long history of performance.
ThatPetPlace 1 year ago
Hi, I am looking to purchase a canister filter. My main issue is I do not want one that leaks or is time consuming to maintain. So far, I like the Fluvals and Eheims, but do you have any suggestions or could you post a video comparing the different brands of canister filters (noting pros and cons) so I can make a good choice? Thanks.
sspamer 1 year ago
@sspamer, In terms of maintenance and quality, the Rena, Fluval, and Eheim canisters all have very good reputations for quality and ease of service. they all have shut off valves, so the canister can easily be transported to a sink or work area for cleaning. The biggest difference between the three, is that the Rena and Ehiem use a basket only design, and the Fluval has a foam block cartridge along with the media baskets. I hope that helps, unfortunately we do not have plans for other videos.
ThatPetPlace 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
magnificent pointers - nice one, anyone tested Max factors most recent range of products?! it is hard to obtain quality makeup in Gerty but you can get some wonderful cosmetics samples by going to 'Gratis Makeup Samples'! there ace.
mackenzieaccetta 1 year ago
i have question if i get this kinda canister do i need to use the other filtration cuz i see some ppol use this and use those filtration hang on the back of the aquarium! is this better to buy or do i need to buy this one and the other filter pls reply !!
lovelypinay26 1 year ago
@lovelypinay26: You are not required to run a second filter, in this case a a hang-on-the-back or power filter, when you run a canister filter. Most tanks will be fine with just an appropriately sized canister filter. Some people will run both filters simply as extra filtration capacity for their tank. Simple water tests will show if just using a canister filter is adequate for maintaining your aquarium's water quality. Good luck.
ThatPetPlace 1 year ago
Ok so i bought the: Tetra Water Wonders 1.5 Gallon Aquarium Kit and for me I have a problem with the filter. Can anyone help me? The water wont come out of the filter
GOTDATAZNBOI 1 year ago
hey i bought a red belly piranha from your store this morning
awinski999 1 year ago
She sounds so.....na_tural
MrPilotstyle 1 year ago
Thank you for this video! I am getting a canister filter for my turtle and I've never used one before, so this was really helpful.
Scuttlebutt89 1 year ago
2:22 try diping the hose in some hot water to get it futher on.
Armydude468 1 year ago
I was after Canister Filters untill i watched this video. Now i want this girl..
harryvirgok38 1 year ago 3
I am not able to prime the filter, I put water in it , anyone have any suggesting .
Joeybsmooth 1 year ago
Do you have to buy the rings and the chemical filtration once it uses up?
redking133 2 years ago
@redking133, chemical filtration will have to be replaced once exhausted, which generally takes a few months depending on your livestock load. Biological media rarely, if ever needs replaced
ThatPetPlace 1 year ago
You all must be hard up.
pheenixrizin 2 years ago 4
man she's hot
simbariotv 2 years ago 22
Helpful video.
Is it possible to run 2 55 gallon tanks on the same cannister?
Thanks
BobLeFlambeau 2 years ago
Canister filters are not designed to run multiple tanks, they need to draw and return water within the same body of water. It would not be possible to maintain water volume balance in two tanks and a single filter.
ThatPetPlace 2 years ago
@BobLeFlambeau I beg to differ...
Who's to say you can't have to outlets and two inlet pipes. The only problem with running off the one canister filter is the flow will not be as strong and that disease would spread like wildfire between the two tanks.
michaelmp5 2 years ago
he is partly right and partly wrong, Yes you can use one canister for one set up, but the canister has to be twice as big, 6x as big if you have turtles, and mainly all you have to do is may then input n output have y-connections, go to lowes and make a diy mod on the hoses. But you just truly are better off on small home aquariums (125gal and under) to have sperate filters per tank. The big aquariums pet go to yeah got it set up like 4tanks per one huge filter. So hope that answers it.
GangstaPengie 1 year ago
Did anyone else find themselves unable to focus on the filter installation... because that chick was incredibly good looking?
SteveCrothers 2 years ago 33
@SteveCrothers
Not really. Just concentrated on both. Easy!
ALNEAL 1 year ago
@SteveCrothers what filter installation
seriouslywakeup 1 month ago
Thank you! I bought one of these today and didn't get any instructions. Naturally, their customer service was 8 to 5 Eastern and I'm in Oregon. And, as it is at my son's new apartment, there was no internet hookup yet to look for info. My place - 2 miles away but printer is on the fritz. This video was great!
geekgurl2000 2 years ago
I bought the XP3 used and i'm not sure where I should put my filter pads and ceramic rings/charcoal
I think
Bottom- coarse pads
Middle- Creamic rings and charcoal
Top- Fine filter pad
Is this correct or should I change the order?
thanks for the help!
hockeyphuck 2 years ago
this should be the correct order, the fine media will pick out fine particulates and the water will then trickle through the biological and coarse media.
ThatPetPlace 2 years ago
Coarse media filter should be used first for water to pass through and sort out larger detritus, then finer media as the bottom/last guard before water is passed back into aquarium
rednerite 1 year ago
OOPs! One other thing I should have added is this is a 24 inch deep tank. Might make a diffrence. :)
vicki25blue 2 years ago
Help! I have a 44 gal. corner/half hex. tank. Want to have saltwater fish & corals eventually. I planed on using rena xp2 with Live Rock & protein skimmer~ (uv light too?) with power head for h20 movement. Will the XP2 be enough or should I buy the XP3 or would that be over kill for a 44gal. tank? Advice? Thanks!!
vicki25blue 2 years ago
The XP2 should be more than enough to support biological and filter sufficiently in a 44 gallon.
ThatPetPlace 2 years ago
I am soon to be setting up my 213 gallon tank, what kind of filtration should i use?
JmeJian90 2 years ago
omg canister for that ammount of gallons a canister for around a 300-400 gallon canister filter. power filters is for anything under 80 even though u can get a 110 gallon power filter.. u should always go more then the ammount of gallons u have
WheresWaldoTV 2 years ago
Pistol Shrimp are reef safe, in that they will not harm your corals. I would not reccomend the use of an undergravel filter for your reef tank. The best way to keep your tank clean is with good water motion that suspends all the waste in the water column, and a quality protein skimmer and filtration system to remove the suspended waste from the water.
ThatPetPlace 2 years ago
is a pistol shrimp safe for a reef tankm and how do you keep the tank clean under you corals,and does reverse flow with a under gravel filter work well
M0Etivation 2 years ago
It really depends upon what kind of corals you intend to keep in the aquarium, and to some degree, what equipment you wish to use. For a 30 gallon aquarium, I would reccomend a T5 light fixture, to try to reduce the amount of heat introduced into the aquarium. Using a Metal Halide fixture, may require the use of a chiller to keep the tank cool enough. There are several wattage T5 fixtures that will fit your tank. Research the light demands of the corals you want keep to help choose a model.
ThatPetPlace 2 years ago
can a canister filter be used with a marine tank? please reply
MrBettaBreeder 2 years ago
Yes, most definitely a canister filter may be used in a marine tank. As with any kind of marine tank filtration, be sure to monitor your water parameters and adjust media accordingly.
ThatPetPlace 2 years ago
ok, for a 30 gallon reef tank what wattage of lighting is needed
MrBettaBreeder 2 years ago
Thank you so much!!
Best and pretty much the only video on youtube that demonstrated how to hook up a canister filter!
thanks!
flowerpotproductions 2 years ago
Adding the canister will be beneficial either way as it will eventually be seeded as additional biological filtration. The model you choose depends on the size of your power filter and the bioload you plan on stocking, but either should be sufficient as a backup for biological and additional mechanical filtration. If you plan on removing the power filter eventually go for the XP3.
ThatPetPlace 2 years ago
I have a 90G freshwater tank, it is cycling now but I plan to do either african cichlids or a fahaka puffer.
Should I wait until the cycle is complete before adding a canister filter? Or should I add now? Which would be more beneficial?
Also, for my 90G should I get an XP2 or an XP3 in addition to the power filter?
Thanks!!!
ttu98ss 2 years ago
i have a XP3 for my 75g reef it works goog
tshelby123 2 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
i'd fuck her
paintyoursky 2 years ago
I have the xp1, what do i have to get to make the water stay clean and not foggy and to cut down the smell?
truckdr02 2 years ago
Cloudy water and sour smell is caused by the bacteria blooms that occur when a tank is cycling. Both freshwater and saltwater tanks experience changes in chemistry when the ammonia, nitrite and nitrate levels spike as a result of the cycling process of the tank. This cycle has to occur to establish the biological balance in an aquarium. The water should clear/stop smelling on its own once the water chemistry in the tank stabilizes. Do not disturb the filter media, do any water changes ect
ThatPetPlace 2 years ago
You may want to add some nitrifying bacteria to the tank like Cycle or biozyme to help the biological establish. Do not add any more fish until the tank has established, the you can add more slowly. As long as the filter is large enough for the tank/bio load, the tank should cycle in 6-8 weeks. Test the chemistry, and you can monitor the cycle, you may see some spikes in ammonia and nitrite. The cycle is probably complete when only nitrates show on tests.
ThatPetPlace 2 years ago
The canister filter provides mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration and is a good fit for most medium to large aquariums as long as you get the right size for the job. You still need additional equipment like a heater and possibly more aeration or circulation depending on tank size, and inhabitants, but a spray bar can provide surface agitation and aeration if adjusted properly on the return portion of the filter. This is a popular and efficient type of filtration.
ThatPetPlace 2 years ago
What does a canister filter do in the long run? Do you need anything besides the filter? And will this aerate the tank at all? I am a newbie to fish stuff, so sorry. :P
jessraat 2 years ago
Will a canister filter help with cooling the water at all?
tazie13 2 years ago
No, a canister will not help with cooling your aquarium water. Placing a fan near the aquarium, blowing over the water surface, or use of a chiller is the best way to reduce water temperatures.
Thanks,
Dave
ThatPetPlace 2 years ago
Thanks thats what I thought, but figued I would ask anyway.
tazie13 2 years ago
ok.
also, i did the business card test. i ran the card around the stand between the aquarium and the top of the stand. there are no gaps, so the aquarium is in full contact with the stand. so that made me happy. then i ran the card between the floor and the stand. no gaps either. so, at least i know now, that it is the floor that is unlevel, and not a strangely built stand causing the unlevelness.
cichlidkeeper89 2 years ago
my aquarium water, is a 1/4 to 1/2 inch higher on the left. its 55 gallons so its 4 feet long. i am afraid that the unlevelness of the aquarium will crack it. i dont want to use shims to level it, so i would be moving it to the basement. most of the concrete in the basement is level, so i have plenty of spots to move it to. do you think i should move it? or is it ok?
it has a tempered bottom which worries me the most.
cichlidkeeper89 2 years ago
You should make sure that the aquarium is as level as possible, so that the pressure of the water is dispersed evenly. I would reccomend that you find a way to level the stand that the aquarium is on, or relocate it to a level location. a 1/4 to 1/2" is not a huge difference, but you are better safe than sorry.
ThatPetPlace 2 years ago
another good idea is to place chunks of styrofoam under the tank before setting it up. they will help absorb any un-evenness
zafgoesbaroque 2 years ago
easy
move fish to some other container that can sustain them for up to a day
take out all the water in your 55, and as much gravel as possible
get some buddies to help you lift it, and put some styrofoam under the tank or under the stand (i recommend stand)
using that tool that shows you tilt with the water and bubble
then fill it back up
throw your fish in (after the water is filtered and set at the right temp.)
cichlidiot94 2 years ago
she is HOT and she know about aquariums the perfect woman hhhhaaaaaaaaaaa
ssttaarrggaattee 2 years ago 7
ur kidding right...?
Eternalized619 2 years ago
NO AM NOT
ssttaarrggaattee 2 years ago
hi i have a fluval 105 and fluval 205 is this suitible for a 200l aquariam.????????
zeashanb6 2 years ago
Those two filters combined should provide sufficient filtration, but will be a little more work, since youre dealing with 2 systems instead of a single system. Combined, they should be able to handle an average bio-load.
ThatPetPlace 2 years ago
Question:
I have a 90 Gallon Aquarium it is empty now, but I am making preparations to do a saltwater aquarium with coral. Is the canister filter better for this type of tank or should I go with HOB's? Do I need a sump if I use a Canister Filter or is it needed only if I chose HOB's? Also I have no canopy how should I set up the lighting should it suspended from the ceiling or mounted on top of the aquarium?
jchrystal 2 years ago
If you are planning a reef aquarium you MAY be able to get away with a canister, but a sump will give you room for a good skimmer and a little more versatility/flexibility for equipment and maintenanceHOB are not recommended for reef aquaria. I would recommend the sump with the canister if you are going that direction. The lighting mount is a matter of you taste, there are advantages and disadvantages to both. top mounts can be cumbersome during maintenance, ceiling mounts may be too high.
ThatPetPlace 2 years ago
is this more expensive than the ovrhead filter? far more expensive?
AesirSovann 2 years ago
Canister Filters are generally slightly more expensive than Power/Hang-on Filters, but provide considerably more versatility, volume, and overall filtration performance. At That Fish Place, an Emperor Power Filter rated for 80 gallon tanks is 56.99, while a Rena XP2 Canister Filter rated for 75 gallons is currently priced at 155.99.
ThatPetPlace 2 years ago
I have 75G african cichlids fish tank, with 9 fish total right now. I will be adding 6 more in the future. Do you think rena XP3 will be enough for my load, or should i get additional filtration? Thanks
4yvak123456 2 years ago
The XP3 should be adequate filtration, but you will still need to monitor your water quality and perform regular water changes to keep up with the load, especially when the fish are mature. That number of cichlids in a 75 is risky, but smaller species like Mbuna should have adequate space.
ThatPetPlace 2 years ago
thanks
4yvak123456 2 years ago
Thank you so much for doing this video. I bought a used Rena Filstar XP3 but no instructions and had only used a HOB filter in the past so had no clue how to use this. Good old Google brought me here and I learned everything I needed to know. Thank you!
fluffyntx 2 years ago
The interval at which you will need to change or clean the filter pads will depend on how much waste is produced in your tank. The mechanical media will need to be cleaned or changed as it becomes clogged and flow is reduced, in most cases this is every 2-4 weeks. Carbon and most other chemical media should be changed once per month, or per manufacturers reccomendations to acheive maximum performance
ThatPetPlace 2 years ago
how often do you have to change the filter
BlusterBob 2 years ago
do you have to change your water often thats in the tank after using the canister filter. the reason I'm asking I have a water turtle and I change the water every week and I have hope that I would not have to change it as often
ChristianShorinryu 3 years ago
Thanks for your question. A canister filter will reduce the frequency of water changes, but is not a substitute for them. Turtles especially are notoriously dirty and give off huge amounts of ammonia. Regardless if you're using a canister or not, the best way to tell when to water change is to test for ammonia, nitrate and nitrite. When these levels become high, the time is right to change.
ThatPetPlace 3 years ago
The combination of a power filter and a canister filter is not overkill for your aquarium, it will give you great flexibility in you media choices, as well as protection should one of the filters stop running for some reason. Oscars and Jack Demseys can grow very large,and produce alot of waste, the extra filtration will be put to good use.
ThatPetPlace 3 years ago
Great tutorial. After viewing this video and always questioning the need for a canister filter, I immediately purchased a Rena XP2.
I have two medium Oscars and a small Jack Dempsey in a 55 gallon tank running an Emperor 400 and XP2. I do eventually plan on upgrading to a 75 or 90 gallon aquarium. Is the use of both filters in my 55gal overkill?
ryleeryno 3 years ago
i need one of these but they cost alot..but i guess its worth it
ES5019ES 3 years ago
A well made & informative video.
Having read about cannister filters on an aquatic forum I've found that the Rena filters are rated very high.
Also I've dealt with That Pet Place several times & I'm impressed with their service.
nakikita 3 years ago
So would this be the only kind of filter you would need for a salt water tank?
lilnutt200 3 years ago
The interval at which you will need to change or clean the filter pads will depend on how much waste is produced in your tank. The mechanical media will need to be cleaned or changed as it becomes clogged and flow is reduced, in most cases this is every 2-4 weeks. Carbon and most other chemical media should be changed once per month, or per manufacturers reccomendations to acheive maximum performance.
ThatPetPlace 3 years ago
How often do you have to change the filters?
lilnutt200 3 years ago
What size canister filter did you install? An oversized filter on a tank that small, may have simply been too much water movement. Was the original filter left running while the new canister was added? Another issue you may have been experiencing was a water quality problem, switching filters will remove your source of nitrifying bacteria that controls your water conditions. If the canister is of approriate size, there should be no reason that your fish should have an issue with adapting.
ThatPetPlace 3 years ago
The filter is a fluval 103.Yes, the original filter maintained running throughout the process.I have additional bacteria in case the filter does indeed remove any..
1legions 3 years ago
I have a 12gallon marine Eclipse tank which i purchased not to long ago. The aquarium contained a fountain filter on the lid which I had been using for a while with fish. Recently I purchased a canister filter and the next day after instaling it my fish appeared to be scared and refused to eat. I left the filter on the whole day and their attitudes stayed the same. Therefore I tured it off and closed the valves but I am wondering if its possible for them to adapt to having the filter on??
1legions 3 years ago
BeNfishing02
I am not sure what you mean by aerate the tank. Some canister filters will come with a venturi attachment on the return line that will inject air into the water, most will not. The surface agitation that is cause by the water movement will increase the disolved oxygen in the water, especially if the water returning to the tank breaks the surface, or is pointed across the water surface. True areation is best accomplished with the use of an air pump and air stone in the aquarium.
ThatPetPlace 3 years ago
hey my canister is all set up how long before it starts to aerate tank??
BeNfishing02 3 years ago
RQJ1987
Canisters can be used for freshwater or saltwater aquariums. With a saltwater aquarium, I would reccomend the use of a protein skimmer, along with the canister for a more efficient system. Canister filters are especially usefull in marine aquariums because of their ease of use with chemical filtration media.
Thanks,
Dave
ThatPetPlace 3 years ago
cepacol06
That really depends upon what you are keeping in your tank. A lighly stocked community tank is easily handled by a filter rated for the size aquarium it is on. If you have a heavily stocked tank,or a predator tank, then you made need to use larger or multiple filters to maintain water quality. You water quality is going to tell you what your needs are. If you are having trouble keeping the tank clean, then you should consider more,or better filtration.
Thanks,
Dave
ThatPetPlace 3 years ago
bkt871
There are many choices to choose from, especially with canister filters. You can use either a single large canister, or multiple smaller units for a 125 gallon aquarium, just make sure that you are using filters that can easily handle your water volume and biological load. One of the great uses for a canister filter is to add extra filtration to an existing tank when it is needed.
Thanks,
Dave
ThatPetPlace 3 years ago
Would I use a canister filter for a 55 gallon saltwater tank?
RQJ1987 3 years ago
i have 55g tank and i have 55g canister filter, some people say, I need to get a bigger filter, such as 75g filter for my 55gallon filter, is that necessary?
cepacol06 3 years ago
It is best to always better to have an over qualified filter depending on your fish, however if your tank is clean and it is not dirty there is no need to upgrade.
bkt871 3 years ago
I am getting a 125 gallon aquarium for 2 oscars. I wanted to know which type of filtration would be best.
bkt871 3 years ago
does it provide oxygen for the fish tank as well?
majosess 3 years ago
majosess,
The spraybar on the return of the canister filter will provide oxygen for the aquarium through surface aggitation. You can adjust the amount of flow through the spraybar and the angle of the spray. It is suggested that the bar be positioned at or near the surface of the water so the spray breaks the surface. The flow and angle can be adjusted to reduce splash and the amount of disruption to the rate that suits your needs.
Thanks
ThatPetPlace 3 years ago
Roger15ohm,
Your aquarium is little over 24 gallons, and yes, the addition of a canister filter will help you. Canister filters are excellent mechanical filters, an will help with trapping the waste that is accumulating in your plants. The smallest Rena filter, the XP1, will be plenty for your aquarium.
Thanks
ThatPetPlace 3 years ago
Dear sir,
I not sure in gallon, I but my aquarium measure at 75 cm x 35 x 35. Now usig a hook on fountain type filter. Setting with sand, water plants, 9 small wild fish, 8, yamatos shrimp. I change the water once in 2days, ( 10 - 15%) and 30% everyweeks. Main problem, I notice the plants capture lots of particals on and off. It will land on the plant, and get clotted. Can canister filter helps here? i am quite tired of this water change. What model you recommend. Many thanks.
Roger15ohm 3 years ago
Mr. Mosei,
It depends on how the canister filter will be used. A sump works by gravity, and is typically supplied water from either an internal or external overflow box. A canister filter is a presurised closed loop system, that needs to draw water from deep in the aquarium. You can use a canister filter instead of a sump, as long as it is installed properly. I would not use a canister with an overflow box, if too much water evaporates the canister will draw air and stop working.
ThatPetPlace 3 years ago
can a canister filter replace a sump?
MrMosei 3 years ago
The filter screen should be the last component in the top basket of the filter. There are two screens that go into the top basket; One goes on top of the Biological media, then the carbon bag and polishing filter pad, then the second screen. Depending on which model Rena XP canister filter you are using(XP2 model shown), the number of baskets, and the arangement will differ.
The biological media is sold seperately, there are several to choose from, in the video we chose to use ceramic rings
ThatPetPlace 3 years ago
Does the bag of charcoal go on top or does the filter screen? It seems you took it out in a different order than you place it back in the video? Also do you have to buy the ceramic pieces separately? Thanks in advance.
myrtlemikeaol 3 years ago
Good god little girl i wish you could be mine, anyways i just got a Fluval 405, its on my 29 gal, and i do agree you could be doing something way better with your degree.
riptor3086 3 years ago
The Fluval 305 is rated for up to a 70 gallon aquarium, so it would be a good choice for your 55 gallon aquarium. If you plan to only keep one oscar in the tank, and perform the regular maintenance that you say, then you should be able to maintain water quality. That being said, you can not over filter your aquarium. If you plan to keep other fish along with your Oscar, then you may want to think about going with the larger filter.
ThatPetPlace 3 years ago
i have a 55 gallon that i am going to put 1 oscar in. i know that some people say that it is still to small of a tank. but i think that as long as i dont over feed, do weekly 25% water changes and have good filtration, i can succesfully keep an oscar. my question is, do you think a fluval 305 will work or should i get the 405?
cichlidkeeper89 3 years ago
The Fluval 405 is rated up to 100 gallons, coupled with regular aquarium maintenace, this filter is big enough for your 90 gallon aquarium. The Fluval and Rena canisters are comparable in quality and function. Your tank will take from 4 to 6 weeks to completely cycle from the time you set it up, if the cloudiness that you are experiencing is a bacterial bloom, then it will disapear as the tank matures.
ThatPetPlace 3 years ago
is the 405 big enough for my 90 gallon tank? do i need additional filters? is the RENA a better filter?
hermanboltz 3 years ago
Cloudy water for 3-weeks.I have a 90 gallon fresh water tank, with a FLUVAL 405, that i set up on 8-2.On 8-9 I introduced 3-rosey barbs that i have bearly feed. have used 3/4 of a 16oz bottle of cycle.Nothing is out of the ordinary as far as PH,amon.nitrite or nitrate.The tank is not in direct sunlight or near any vents.The temp. is maintained between 78-80 degrees.would the bigger RENA help me? Is the fluval 405 a good filter?
hermanboltz 3 years ago
Cloudy water is fairly common during the first few weeks of starting up a new tank. The cloudyness is often reffered to as "new tank syndrome". Even with adding cycle to your aquarium it will take some time for the bacteria colony in your canister to grow to a point that it can consume the fish and food waste, even with only a few fish. The cloudiness is caused by free floating bacteria in the water that grow to consume the waste. This may last for a couple of weeks untill you filter matures.
ThatPetPlace 3 years ago
The video did not say when to close the quick release vent.
seant2h 3 years ago
I like the filter but I like her better !!
panda141414 3 years ago
dont buy this model i have trouble with this model rena xp3 i pay 230 $ plus taxe .I have 3 tank in my room . My 2 other filter i pay 129 $taxe included 100$ in less for astro-2212 by aqua tropical you dont pay for this rena xp3
lexkizz 3 years ago
Thanks for your comment. The filters you are comparing are rated for two different size tanks: the Rena for up to 175 gal. & the Astro up to 100 gal, so it's difficult to compare prices. I'm unfamiliar with Astro filters. Though they appear to be similar to Eheim models in appearance, I can make no claims on their reliability one way or another. The Rena is an established name in the hobby. Also, we sell the XP3 for 169.99.
ThatPetPlace 3 years ago
i use carbon plus in my filter :P
WoodyW123 3 years ago
Why c-360 its 360 gph and its says up to 100 gallons....and the rena xp3 its 350 gph and its says for up to 175 gallons tank?????? i want to buy one but i am confuse!!!! help please!!!
panochito666 3 years ago
These are the advertised ratings from the manufacturers, unfortunately there are no "industry standards" for filter ratings. Manufacturers test and rate their products individually, with their own criteria. You want to turn over your aquarium volume a minimum of 3-5 times per hour. If you have a heavily stocked and fed aquarium, you should consider an oversized filter for your aquarium. I think the Marinland C-360 has a more reasonable rating than the Rena XP3. Both are excellent filters.
ThatPetPlace 3 years ago
Because she's so sweet Im gonna buy some filters even though I dont have a fish tank.
Redturq 3 years ago
My xp3 is sooo damn loud. i cant fix it!! ahh, annoying.
fearofspoons 3 years ago
mine runs really quiet....make sure it has enough water
viruspunk102 3 years ago
Good vid, but shouldn't you be doing somthing better with your marine biology degree.
fearofspoons 3 years ago 2
like what would you have her do???????????? WORK WITH THE MILITARY TRAINING KILLER DOLPHINS.....who cares anyway....she's cute
terryshalb45 3 years ago
Great and helpful vid ^^
btw I'm getting a 75 gallon aquarium for my oscars , what type of filter do you recommend for it?
nekonabiki 3 years ago
For fish that are predators and can get fairly large, I would recommend that an oversized canister filter is used, especially if you have several of them. The additional biological and mechanical filtration will help keep up with the mess that Oscars can make. Oscars have big appetites and a knack for rearranging things in your tank. In this case I would recommend the Rena XP3, the Marineland C-360, or an equivalent oversized Fluval or Eheim.
ThatPetPlace 3 years ago
Thanks for the video. I have a mature 20Gal fresh tank running a marineland filter and I'm doing weekly tank cleanup with a Vortex water polisher. I'm thinking that I want to get rid of all of that and go to a canister filter. I'm going back and forth between Rena and Eheim. Any recommendations?
6jags 3 years ago
Thanks for posting. This may seem a bit biased, but our guys at TFP really do recommend the Rena over the Eheim. Our reasoning for this has to do with the surface area of both: the Eheims are cylindrical, the Rena's are squat & square allowing for more. They are both equally as quiet and dependable. The Rena has recently introduced an inline heater too (sold seperately), which is pretty cool. If you'd like a more detailed account, give the store a call at 1-888-That Pet. Thanks!
ThatPetPlace 3 years ago
wow this was an awsome video!! I am ready to buy one, just need to know what size to add to my 29 gallon tank. I run 2 large back filters but want something that will not stir my water for floating plants.
Also how often and how do I change my media ? great video,very helpful!!
hakunamakarla 4 years ago
The Rena XP-1 Canister Filter is rated for tanks up to 45 gallons. The spray bar that comes with it doesn't tend to create as much flow on the top as a power filter return, either. As for media, there are a lot of variables involved there such as fish load, media type, etc. Our best suggestion would be to just do regular water changes and tests until you can decide on a media change cycle that works for your tank. Thanks for your comment!
ThatPetPlace 4 years ago
also do you sell cascade 1000?
is it a good quality brand?
i want it for my 75 Gallon tank.
VWmachine 4 years ago
That Fish Place does sell the Cascade 1000. It's item number 237752. Penn Plax, the manufacturer, makes good general purpose quality equipment, and the Cascade 1000 is a good filter. It's comparable to similar-sized Filstar and Fluval models.
ThatPetPlace 4 years ago
i already ordered one cscade 1000 from you on sunday.
VWmachine 4 years ago
now im thinking to buy rena or fluval which one is beter in cleaning the water also the self priming issue. their prices are very close, do they provide all 3 filteration requirments, also can you please post a video to see how this rena works like how quiet it is. i just want to know which is overally the best long lasting filter something that i wouldnt regret paying for.
thanks
VWmachine 4 years ago
Thanks for your suggestion. Of the two filters, the Fluval is the easier to prime, and has a built-in siphon pump. The Rena uses the method in the video, and this works well, but is more difficult to perform. There really is no noise difference between the two, and both provide 3-stage bio, chem, mech filtration. Media options are endless and totally customizable as well with easy-to-fill media baskets. The Filstar model also now offers an in-line heater option, sold separately.
ThatPetPlace 4 years ago
Great video! I recently purchased a used 100Gal aquarium setup. I'm using this for saltwater. It came with a Fluval 405 and a Rena Filstar XP3. That seems really overkill. Is there any reason why I should run both of them? Don't they basically both do the same thing? I also have a bakpak2 protein skimmer.
Thanks.
autotechnica 4 years ago
Thanks for your comment! You generally can't have too much filtration. If due to space restriction you don't want to run all that equipment, try running less and keeping a tight eye on water parameters. If nitrates, ammonia and all other water parameters stay under control, than you'll get your answer. If you're planning on a lot of fish though, two filters and a skimmer may be required to keep it safe. The key, as always is water tests.
ThatPetPlace 4 years ago
hello i keep discus in my bare bottom tank and only use sponge filter, the tank is 75 gallon, i recently stop using my penguin 350 bio wheel and since then the fish have started to get sick i do 50% water change almost every day, what filter would you recommend other than the sponge filter, im thinking to buy a HOT magnum hang on the back convertible canister filter, is this a good filter?
VWmachine 4 years ago
Clearly if she was a marine biologist she would not work a an aquarium store,
lobreiter1025 4 years ago
Actually, That Fish Place offers a fun, hands-on and challenging environment for any marine biologist. Our 35,000 gallon retail fish room rivals many public aquariums and houses an ever-changing variety of freshwater and saltwater fish and invertebrates. Their expertise and interests are indulged daily as new species are constantly arriving. Adapting to the husbandry challenges of so many creatures keeps Sarah, as well as our other 6 marine biologists constantly busy.
ThatPetPlace 4 years ago