Additional filtration media - Fluval 13.5

Plunder · May 15, 2020

hey reefers,

I got the Fluval 13.5 and I was considering adding additional media into some of the extra compartments. I did, however, upgrade my return pump when I was building the tank with a SICCE Silent 0.5 rated @ 185 gph. Not sure if that's important, but I thought I'd mention it. So today I received some Chemi-Pure Elite ,Sea Chem Matrix and Poly-filter. So my question is what are the pros and cons of adding either 2nd carbon or 2nd biofiltration? I would be using the poly filter right before/under the 2nd filtration, hoping to stop any extra particulates.

Here is a picture to try to help describe. Ideally, the filtration would go in the bottom right corner. Thanks.

BighohoReef · May 15, 2020

Flow is important that upgrade is a common one for the Evo 13.5, I ended up following that recommendation for our mine as well. As for the extra filtration that's a tough one, you already have such a small water column you'll probably be doing water changes at least once a week (I do it once a week). First thoughts on the extra media are that yes it would create a cleaner water column, hopefully, reduce algae blooms and other buildups, I also think it's super important to have a good pump in the tank that moves the water to the filter area not just the stock Fluval returns. Have you looked at any of the Inmedia or DIY egg crate baskets for the filter area? skimmer?

Plunder · May 15, 2020

I have checked out the inmedia baskets. I think down the road I will upgrade chamber either chamber 1 or 2, because I have the skimmer in chamber 1 now. Would you suggest more chemical or bio filteration? In general what is better to have?

BighohoReef · May 15, 2020

Always bio in my opinion with a healthy build-up of good bacteria you can't go wrong, in addition I've seen folks build refugiums in chamber 2 which I love the idea of having for health of tank! As for chemical, I'd still use carbon beyond that unless I was trying to address a specific problem I wouldn't do much more. For Chemi-pure make sure you read the instructions I used it in my other nano tank to kill off a hair algae issue had to do a few water changes to get the parameters back to normal. Just know with a smaller water column you're be doing a little more work to keep the water clean.

Plunder · May 15, 2020

Well, you convinced me! I added some matrix to the bottom and put some poly-filter over it. The old phosphate removing pad I took out was dirty, but not that bad, for about a week in there. As far as the water column I noticed it a few days ago, especially under the skimmer it seems to collect a lot. I have a bunch of extra phosphate pads, I was thinking of cutting one to the size of chamber 1 and sticking it just below the skimmer. Do you see any drawbacks to that? I was hoping it might catch some of the extra particulates and/or keep the items from going too low and having no chance of the skimmer trying to re-catch it.

I forgot to also mention I built a DT refuge. The pods seem to like it, I got them over a week ago and they seem to be thriving.

Plunder · May 15, 2020

I also had the idea of using this little guy Eco-bio block stone and putting it in chamber 1 with the skimmer. I think it will keep stuff off the bottom, but it seems to have beneficial properties, which is a plus. Have anyone heard of these things or tried them personally? Thanks for the input.