Trying to Replace Canister Filter

Ranger NRK · Jan 6, 2014

So I have a fluval 206 running my 36gallon reef and i'm trying to completely do without it. I've been avoiding protein skimmers for awhile now but now I'm just getting one. I'm planning on getting a CPR aquafuge 2 but im not sure how big I should go, im stuck between the small 13" or the medium 19". I also have been looking at getting the reef octopus bh 1000. is this a good setup to replace my canister? also how would I go setting up the refugium. I currently have around 36lbs of live rock and 40lbs of agronite sand.

Aquarium-Keeper · Jan 7, 2014

What are the issues you are having with it? I use almost the same setup for my system with no problems...just seems unnecessary to replace if its not acting up.

Mole · Jan 7, 2014

I used the Medium fuge and tunze 9002 with great success. The med fuge BARE-ly fit on my 20 but it should work great for you. The tunze 9002 fits right inide the last chanber of the fuge.

Ranger NRK · Jan 10, 2014

The canister itself isn't a problem, but I wouldn't have run it on this system to start with. I took it off of my hex tank when I upgraded and the refug and skimmer will allow for better growth of my corals and supply copes for my mandarin. I might keep the canister though depending on the fit of things

jonny · Jan 10, 2014

I have a medium aquafuge, an aqua c remora skimmer, and a canister on my 55 very successfully..the only thing in the canister is carbon and sponges for mech filtration..the key is just keeping the canister clean.

NanaReefer · Jan 10, 2014

I've been running the CPR medium fuge for almost 3yrs. Added the BH-1000 a year ago.
Here's my issue with the fuge. There is no way to add a filter sock to it. The amount of detritus build up in it has become a total PITA! Cleaning it out is even worse! Disturb the contents and it enters the DT. Siphoning it out must be done while intake pump is running or else the fuge drains completely before your done. Cannot put anything like filter floss in the return to catch debris because it slows the flow to the point of over flowing. Also another pita is how the fuge light sits so high it shines directly into my DT. Not cool as I run the DT lights opposite the fuge light.
Soon I plan on replacing the fuge with a good canister filter. One that will allow me to control the return flow. IMO will also be much easier to keep clean.