HELP Fluval 13.5

[Hunterhype13]

It seems to be already looking better oil slick seems near gone water a little cloudy still but to be expected until it runs proper longer I did add just a little more water but since you say it looked ok I might take it back out if it’s to much you tell me please

Should I keep at this level or make a touch lower for more cascading

 

[W1ngz]

Looks ok to me. Too much cascading makes noise, salt creep and increases evaporation.

 

[Curtis Rose]

Should I keep at this level or make a touch lower for more cascading

i think my water drops down a half inch or so into some filterflosss. If u get a surface skimmer like this.

U will be able to keep the water level higher in the display if u use one idk where mine came from can remember if it came in the kit or not

 

[StephDaReefer]

One big issue with the filtration system is that the first chamber has way too many openings for water to flow into the second chamber. In order to force the water through the filter media on the first chamber, you would have to block atleast the first half of the cutout openings, so the water is forced to only go through the bottom ones. You can purchase an intank band media basket for the first chamber for about $55. I made my own with an acrylic sheet and Silicone.

 

[BloopFish]

I personally recommend either making the two outlets of the filter break the water and cause surface agitation and/or running the level of the back chambers low enough to get surface agitation in the back chamber. I say this because it really helps with the "oil slick" and helps a lot with the oxygenation of the tank - I'm speaking from experience. If you are heavily stocked or ever plan to be this is a must.