BIORB COMPATIBLE UPGRADE KIT

[@pondguru]

Click 'SHOW MORE' for full video description and important links - watch in HD PLEASE NOTE: amount of biogravel required for the biorb upgrades is dictated by the base area, not the volume of the tank as it is used as a substrate to cover foams. Therefore: 15 litre requires 1.5kg 30 litre requires 2kg 60 litre requires 3.5kg 105 requires 5kg Above figures are based on the 'orb' shapes tanks - the 'life' and 'flow' rectangular tanks require 3.5kg and the foams would be cut to the full size of base. Biorb upgrade kits: www.filterpro.co.uk ('Filter Kits' page) Biorb gravel cleaner: geni.us/0YMWPJJ Ornament to cover central filter plate: geni.us/WWBqb (to make removal of central filter easier - less chance of biogravel falling into filter chamber) How to set up a Biorb aquarium.....Making one of the most troublesome aquariums work properly? That is the task being completed in this video and it also shows a unique, highly porous 'Biogravel'. Feeding frozen and sinking foods is now possible with this upgrade as the food will not be lost under large sharp media (Biorb 'lava rock'). Great range of frozen food here: geni.us/LNA8 (select type - loads to choose from) Full kits for 15 litre, 30 litre and 60 litre orbs and external filters can be found at this link: www.filterpro.co.uk The Biogravel and foams are also available separately from www.filterpro.co.uk The Biogravel is made of the same material as Biohome filter media (sintered glass). Full video on that media to follow. I will ship worldwide but to save on shipping costs please check out these links for other Biohome suppliers: US supplier: www.greatwaveeng.com AU Supplier: www.genesisgroup.com.au CA Supplier: www.angelfins.ca Apologies for the long video but there is a load of important information to get in there and I really like to share as much knowledge as possible to promote greater understanding of the filtration process. Check out how to set up an external filter here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oqSknoZ6aNyJmMk Everything you could want to know about moving bed filters here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/epOqiKNpbMmdkLM Biohome questions and answers here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h3isXqyYhtR9o8k Thanks very much for watching an appreciating the video - please share it with anyone who has a biorb or similar aquarium. Your support is awesome but as I get hundreds of comments every day I may not be able to reply to everyone. Contact me by email on [e-mail] or on 07772848730 regarding biohome any time. Thanks for watching and appreciating the videos. A FEW COMMON QUESTIONS: Do I need to take the medium/course foam rings out from under the gravel to clean them? (rinse in siphoned tank water, if so how often?) - It is basically creating an undergravel filter so as long as the substrate (biogravel) is cleaned with a gravel cleaner that will remove the vast majority of uneaten food / fish waste from the biogravel and upper foam so the foams don't need to be removed unless you want to do a deep clean which I recommend doing every 12 months or so. So far I don't know anyone who has done that as they don't want to disturb anything which is working well. Ideally the gravel cleaner would be used once a week to remove waste from bottom of tank, just as it would with a normal tank - that will remove waste, do a small water change and freshen up the tank. Do I need to take the fine filter pad out to clean, if so how often? - That is just like the cleaning of the 'normal' pad for biorbs. When it is clogged it will need replacing but since you have so much filtration prior to water hitting that fine pad it could go for many months before it needs replacing - every tank is different but most will go 4-6 months before the pad needs replacing. Check after 2-3 months and if you think it would go longer next time just extend cleaning intervals to suit - no point cleaning / replacing a clean filter. Do I need to replace the foam or fine filter pad, if so how often? - See above with regard to fine pad in central filter, outer foams should last a good 18-24 months before they lose their 'bounce' but will still function as an undergravel system beyond that. If I’m taking out the foam or fine filter pad. Do I need to take out my fish before doing so to be safe? I don’t want to kill it. - If you are removing the fine pad in the centre then that can be done with fish in no problem but removing the outer foams will involve taking out the biogravel so ideally that would be done when the tank had been drained and fish removed for duration of work - muck could be stirred up when the system is pulled apart so best to do that when fish aren't present. Is the air pump that comes with the BiOrb unit sufficient? If not what power air pump will be best? - Yes the standard air pump will be fine as water flow is not restricted by the undergravel system.

[@shellyp.b.7921]

Great video. Do you have a video with it all hooked up as well?

[@pondguru]

No, but I will be doing a follow-up video showing a marine / hard water option soon and may as well film them running. Glad you like the idea.

[@lisamcnaywasmazzone8867]

Loved your vid , Mr GURU ....ive just purchased a second hand biorb life 60l and so glad i came across this before i wasted money on those stupid middle filters , i was actually going to try similar to what youve done but wasnt sure if i could , as i say soooo happy i came across this , only thing im unsure about is the fine filter in the middle how often do i clean that please and i carnt find the white /cream pads where did you get those from and how much of this Biohomme do you think i will need x

[@alicebaird2039]

My Betta Fish got pulled down under the biorb media in to the bottom of the filter!! Have ordered one of these kits as soon as I got him out! Disaster !

[@richardbunt2278]

Like

[@Roxyfullify]

I just want to send out a huge thank you!!! We purchased our son a BioOrb second hand not thinking how difficult or expensive this bowl would be. We followed your instructions and the tank has never been so happy!!! Thank you, thank you, Thankyou!!!

[@Sithehandyguy-London]

I came across this a few years ago and since upgrading the tank about 4 years ago, the plants, fish and snails are flourishing. I am using fine gravel but there's a healthy layer of dirt underneath now. Part water changes about every 2 months and clean any muck off the surface and I don't really need to test levels very often now. Feed them every 2-3 days and a few extra flakes at the weekend Great upgrade.

[@adamwaind5057]

Love the idea, what I'd do slightly differently is I'd cut a hole in the ring of foam and place a potted plant like a crinum. And then put the media on so you can have areas that would have plant substrate and stuff like that. Thanks for the brilliant advice. You earned a new subscriber.

[@paula1758]

THIS IS THE BEST!!! This was my first real tank- it's running FANTASTIC and is completely stable! I've had it since 2014. It's just BEAUTIFUL! These are a PAIN to clean with the substrate falling into the center, BUT this upgrade is FANTASTIC!!! I do also have some planted plants so that helps, but this works so well!!! This substrate is like MAGIC!

[@andrewgardener9900]

I really appreciate the advice that you give regarding the filtration system of the Biorb. Many thanks

[@ThousandYardStare]

(my other channel) no worries and I'm glad you found the video useful as I make the video to help people.

[@rebeccagraham2013]

I've just done this and already my fish are super happy and it looks great!! It has inspired me to keep live plants after refusing to for years. I can't recommend this enough!

[@pondguru]

Very good to hear and I am working on a saltwater version of this system not as the upgrade kit sold by biorb for marine use addresses none of the filtration problems. I'm glad you're happy with the kit as it was something born out of years of frustration with the biorb tanks.

[@JDL__99]

@@pondguru I’m quite new to fish keeping but I’ve just set up the biorb with the ceramic media, now I’m thinking of changing to this system , how would I go about changing it as I have some fish in my tank already? Only 4 guppies so far though

[@pondguru]

@@JDL__99 As long as you give the bioravel a good wash before use (soak overnight, rinse and repeat) and drop all the old water out into a suitable container along with the fish, plants etc. you can set up the new system and simply replace all the old water, fish etc. and top up with fresh water. Most people put the old ceramic media on top of the biogravel for a few weeks to ensure that the bacteria can spread out into the biogravel then after a 3-4 weeks the old ceramic media is removed. That will be a smooth transition.

[@PAULMADFISH]

Hi Richard ive been away for ages came home this weekend to this absolute gem of a vid the bio gravel looks awesome. Love the shots of the media in microscope view id love to see the entire range compared against other medias to show people why it works so well. thanks again for bringing another great product to us

[@pondguru]

I will be doing a video specifically on the media as it is incredible stuff for the DIY filters and using inside hollow ornaments.

[@sandrai7218]

I saw the video and on the back of that, bought the upgrade kit for my 30 litre biorb. I have now been running it for about 6 weeks, and added 6 Endlers and a ghost shrimp a week ago. I plan on adding another 3 Endlers and possibly a couple more shrimp in a few weeks time. The water quality is very good with ammonia and nitrites consistently at zero, and nitrates very low. The water is crystal clear and the fish/shrimp appear very happy. I'd certainly recommend the upgrade kit!

[@sandrai7218]

I found one of my Endlers dead yesterday and it had no visible signs of infection or disease. I tested the tank water in my Biorb 30l classic which showed PH at 8.2. Ammonia and Nitrites are 0, Nitrates are 10ppm. As a double check I also tested my incoming mains water supply which is 7.4 so something is happening in the tank. I live in a very hard water area. Any advice on correcting the problem please will be much appreciated.

[@carolynanderson2934]

I have the 4gal BioOrb and was at my wits end with it. Out of a dozen fish, only 4 have managed to survive and for some reason the water just stayed murky, even with a new (expensive) filter. I call them the little troopers. lol. Anyways, I was trying to figure out how to pimp up the filter system and viola, here you are. AND I had the biohome stuff already and used it in my little minipond outside which has been fabulous! Today, I stuck some in the filter (just grasping at straws), but will order more and try this set up. Thank-you for the video! C

[@markymark3075]

Hi - Been running the upgrade for 4 months now, amazing results - perfect water quality. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

[@pondguru]

No worries - glad you're pleased with the system and I wish the manufacturers would consider improving the filters in these tanks as it would save millions of fish each year.

[@sweetdreamstime2266]

@@pondguru I am just beginning my journey with biorbs and so have very limited experience. I love all the new things I'm learning from Richard, though the concern is that Biorb recommend removing any ceramic media smaller than pea sized, as this can get stuck in the filter area preventing you from being able to insert and close the air tube, please can you explain how we can overcome this? Can you also create a video on how to clean the black foam filter and biogravel, and how often this should be done? I envisage this being quite tricky for me so would find a video most useful. Thank you.

[@ThousandYardStare]

@@sweetdreamstime2266 (my other channel) As far as cleaning he foam goes it will be cleaned when you push a gravel cleaner through the biogravel and slightly depress he foam drawing muck from it - no need to strip down to clean unless you wan to do a deep clean after a year or so. To replace central cartridge just scrape media away from the centre and replace the foam or whatever you have in the central part.

[@lucyblayney2208]

Have to say you're a life saver, I used the biogravel to line the bottom of a Fluval Chi, and I put some of the bioballs from my existing 160 ltr tank in the top of the filter - an idea which was inspired by your moving bed filter in a water bottle video. I now feel alot more confident that this tank is more than able to deal with 3 male Tiger Endlers and the Cherry Shrimps that live in there. Thank you so much for your great inventions and ideas, and for selling us the means to do them ourselves at home.

[@lucyblayney2208]

Just realise Bioballs are actually big plastic balls... I meant I used some of your little filter media balls that looks like Malteasers (the ones you used in the mini moving bed filter video) in the top of my chi filter. My bad :)

[@pondguru]

Lucy Blayney No worries and good to hear you're experimenting with the filter. Best of luck with that.

[@towzone100]

I'll have to say. I purchased this upgrade for my Biorb and WOW! My numbers are always zero, with the exception of PH. I would never think of having a tank this size because they end up being toxic but after receiving it as a gift I did some research and find this media. It is amazing. Its now the only substrate I use.

[@KerryScottCooke7402]

I am so glad I seen this informative video. I had just discovered Biorb s and was in the process of deciding wether to buy one or not. So I didn’t like the negative reviews and didn’t like how some people couldn’t raise anything in one. I had shied me away from buying. Then I seen a few comments mentioning Pond Guru and filter upgrade. So I am completely sold I bought the Biorb along with Biogravel and neccesay

[@helenangel01]

Hiya thank you for your video, jeezzeee there still isn't much on the net about the 60l tanks! So this was such a find! I have got a 60l and searching for biorb and how to keep them clear and healthy as I'm doing at least an half change every 2 weeks!!! Love your breakdown of how everything works sooo easy to follow!! Thanks again Helen 💯🐟🐬💯

[@simons1542]

I’ve been struggling with a biorblife60 for 4 months. I’ve had 2 deaths and enough water changes to hide a moderately sized nuclear submarine. One month in to this change (with a full rectangular run of coarse on top of medium with a replacement home cut fine foam filter and your substrate with ceramic beads) I’m gobsmacked by the results. The fish are thriving, the tank no longer smells of death and I’m no longer blaming myself for the tears from my daughter. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!!!!

[@milliecox4346]

Hi can uou tell me where I can buy the biorb up grade kit from please .

[@helsbels285]

Love this!! Thank you will definitely do this if I use it again. I had a biorb for years I switched to a 140L tank (£5 off Facebook..mental) as was given corys and some neons when a friend wanted to get rid, the biorb wasn’t suitable for the corys. Anyway on emptying the biorb my 5 Colombian red fin tetras had become 35+ The filter media and pebbles in the bottom allowed them to hide from predation. I couldn’t believe ve how many were hiding down in the bottom. My most successful unintentional needing to date 😆

[@CCTippers]

Brilliant, had a Biorb for years and the filter has always been a pain and expensive the Biorb has been in the shed for the last few years but I’m really tempted to get it back out now and do this upgrade, get some little fishy’s to entertain the other pets.

[@pondguru]

Sounds good to me and it really does work very well when upgraded.

[@MrSepture]

hi spoke with you way back still have my very old given biorb 60 my up date is home made air filter stuck to side but the very old plastic lid kept shorting so this week removed wiring to light for the third time ,holding a halogen bulb ,using a transformer converter I rewired with the correct wire ,then on hunt for replacement halogen for LEd bulb and every thing is working fine ,so it has saved me the basic £22 cost so it can be done

[@pondguru]

Nice one - you will get the bulbs online.

[@jacquigittens816]

Thank you so much. I just used your suggestions for my old 9 gallon Biorb. I was gifted with it and love it but hate having to purchase those filters all the time. I only have a beta in there right now but I can finally add some shrimp after getting rid of the old substrate.

[@pondguru]

+Zac olive I wouldn't ever keep goldfish in the small biorbs but the 105 you could get a couple of fancies as there's a bit more swimming space there.

[@LowTechTank]

love this video! Brilliant

[@Raegan1616]

SOOOO AWESOME! Thank you. I just purchased the tube cap. I had no idea, until I watched a different video of yours. Thank you!

[@pondguru]

No worries and best of luck with the tank.

[@steverushton8407]

Fantastic, bought the kit, followed your advice and what d’ya know...it works. Really pleased with your solution and doubly pleased I don’t have to clean this green gunk each weekend just to see the fish!! Much appreciated and thank you.

[@cleo962]

Just ordered ours now! Praying this works because I love the tank so much, and cannot cope with another fish loss

[@AQUAPROS]

Awesome Richard! Love the substrate, glad you finally made some!!!! I always wondered if you were going to, need to try it in a planted tank ASAP

[@Kieren.5]

So will 300-500g stull reduce nitrates if I got the biohome untimate

[@pondguru]

I need to find someone with a nano tank to try some I reckon. Its damn good stuff.

[@pondguru]

01fishaquarium It depends how big the tank is but as mentioned previously best results are from using 1kg biohome per 100 litres

[@coolwater411]

I wish I saw this video sooner I already got my Biorb 8 gallon filled already, but I really want to upgrade my biorb

[@pondguru]

No worries, the idea is out there so if you run into problems with the current set up and fancy a change you know what is available.

[@MyTinyBalcony]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge and your expertise. I am a beginner and really do care for my fish. I have a BiOrb 60L for which I bought a year supply of the commercial filters. I have 5 left. So, I have a feeling that I am going to be sourcing all of the components (I am in Australia) to make your particular filtering system. While I love my BiOrb, I am frustrated with how hard it is to actually clean. Because it is so hard to clean properly, I have removed and cleaned the standard filter 4 times today, plus spent 2 hours skimming the water after rinsing out the filter. It seems that a lot of crap gets caught in the filter orifice. I have a single fancy and a golden sucker fish in it and clean it out weekly. I am ok to do this as I find the process quite relaxing, but just annoyed that it is never as good a job as I would like.

[@pondguru]

+alonyaJ As long as you don't lose too much original water you can clean it as often as you like but its a whole heap of unnecessary work. Yes it costs a lot to send anything from UK to AU but the Australian supplier of biohome (link on my website: www.filterpro.co.uk) should have biogravel - the foams may be more difficult to source. Try sellers of pond filters for those.

[@MyTinyBalcony]

I have finally got all the bits together and today I have assembled by tank per the instructions. I could only get the BioHome minis here in Australia, although I prefer the look of the pebbles that you used in the video. I snapped 2kg in half and put the other 1kg in whole. The stupid cartridge received 2x Micropads with the little off-cut bits stuffed into the bottom due to a lack of the pebbles. I am looking forward to seeing how this works. I am considering converting it to a tropical as I have had more luck with that than with goldfish.

[@pondguru]

Yes tropicals are much easier to look after in a small tank so would be worth giving a go in a biorb If the biohome mini ultra won't snap up suitably you could just use ordinary gravel - don't feel compelled to use biohome if the biogravel is not available from the AU supplier as ordinary aquarium gravel will still do a decent job and will be smooth compared to snapped up pieces of biohome mini ultra.

[@mdmflyer]

I've biogravel in my 45L biorb and would caution against using so much that it covers the central filter cartridge. Yes, you can be careful in moving it away from the filter when you want to change the foam ring but getting the gravel inside the housing and jamming it to the point that it won't unscrew, is a real problem, as I've found to my cost and needing a complete emptying and strip down.

[@pondguru]

Yes having only a light covering over the central filter or better still something like this covering the central filter: geni.us/WWBqb would ensure that the gravel does not contact with the central filter cover plate so that is a very good point you made there. I have added the link to that ornament in the video description. Regards, Richard

[@morto1974]

Just wanted to thank you for this wonderful solution to the biorb filtration. I have the original 60 litre tank and I was honestly ready for throwing it out as the water was turning murky within 3days . I implemented your new system over a week ago now and my tank is still crystal clear. I would highly recommend for anyone with a biorb tank to do this asap. Cheers Sharon

[@pondguru]

Dear Sharon, That is great to hear and I'm glad you're pleased with the system. It's not a magic bullet but it definitely goes a long way to making a biorb low maintenance and very well filtered. Regards, Richard

[@ECMTUNER]

Had this filter in my large bio orb and it was never been better, but i deiced to get rid of my bio orb because of how hard it was to maintain even in the simplest way.

[@pondguru]

That sounds like a very familiar situation and I'm glad you found the conversion worked as intended. The standard filter set up of the biorbs is so bad that every time I sell a conversion kit I know that it is saving fishes lives so it is a great feeling.

[@coolwater411]

I really like your upgrade on the Biorb 8 gallon. I will upgrade it

[@bekmowf]

I'm deffo gonna try this. 2 questions. 1. How much biogravel will I need for a 30L biorb, and how often, if ever, do the foam rings need replaced/cleaned.

[@VinDhir]

Thanks Pondguru, I have used your advice and setup my tank. I created a video for youtube and made sure to mention your channel on there.

[@brian807]

Brilliant video - you might have mentioned it but do have to change the large sponges? Or the original biorb one?

[@recojeff.z4517]

m8 ive seen most ov your vids on the internet and you have done so much for me ive had my tank now for about two years common tank cold water and it is lush ive got a tetra ex700 canister filter with all your bio Media a s15 hang on filter with a good set up you have inspired me my fish look great and its all because of people like you that has rely helped me THX m8 keep the vids going james from bristol top man :)

[@pondguru]

reco jeff.Z No worries, man, glad to be of service and you have definitely done the right thing swapping the foams into the correct position (bottom tray) and changing the media to biohome.As I have closed my shop I'm not sure there will be many more aquatic videos but there will definitely be more filter related videos coming up plus a mega give away when I get near 50,000 subscribers / 15,000,000 views to reward subscribers who have commented on videos or shared them an helped my channel grow.

[@recojeff.z4517]

any time bro thx

[@JSpalding]

Now that is some amazing stuff right there Richard. That should sell big time! Now, we all have to see this set up and running. Never cease to amaze me. 👍

[@pondguru]

My wife won't let me have an aquarium at home so I will have to set it up properly when I get my large cabin built in the garden, lol

[@roberthayes2532]

Just cut a larger foam ring around the central filter, crushed lava rock as a base then then the biorb media over the top for a quick cheap fix. This will increase contact time and surface area for beneficial bacteria.

[@kevinweaver4265]

HI Richard: The Advertisement that came up over your excellent video was "Ponds by Ed", LOL, Best, K

[@pondguru]

Well I hope 'Ed' sends me a thank you message if this video gets thousands of views, lol Got an email from you a few days ago so will get round to answering that properly. Been killed by work recently.

[@kevinweaver4265]

Pondguru Another AD over one of your Vids was prostate cancer treatment just as you were saying "Get in there", LOL, Best, Kevin

[@pondguru]

Kevin Weaver In the words of George Takei -"Oh, my....."

[@tomfranklin3317]

How do you stop the gravel going into the space where the filter cartridge was when you take it out?

[@andreafischer601]

I don't understand your accent and on closed captioning it doesn't always type the correct words so can you tell me the brand name or what is this new revolutionary product you covered the bottom of the orb with please thank you?

[@ivanzabala7549]

SUPERB VIDEO!! 🤯 A wealth of information 🙏

[@byronpattison]

Nice vid. I have two Biorbs there is nothing wrong with them. There is nothing wrong with a Biorb. It's just people treating them badly and not doing the required care that they need. Turning them into The Ball Of Death that they are commonly called.

[@pondguru]

+byron pattison Yes a very light stock can be maintained in a well looked after standard biorb and water conditions can deteriorate quickly in any shape or size of tank with inadequate filtration, overstocking and lack of maintenance. Glad you enjoyed the video - thanks for watching.

[@byronpattison]

+Pondguru Outdoors Great! I Admit That More Care Is Acquired But There Has Been No Nitrate Or Nitrite Spikes Or Even Ammonia Spikes. So I Just Keep On The Way I Maintain The Biorbs And I Will Be Able To Keep them under control and stop unwanted spikes or water pollution.

[@6X7-42]

That would be an awesome external moving bed filter for large tanks. Converted of course.

[@pondguru]

+Bob Riccardo Yes it would certainly look unique.

[@VimyScout]

Have no idea what you was just talking about but enjoyed nonetheless. In haste thought you'd just hit the big one with the new machine...

[@theambivalentsocialworker]

Thank you for this video. Really enjoyed it. I have ordered the upgrade kit.

[@lostinspacerobinson1527]

Excellent video ! You won a sub sir !! Cheers from Ohio brother !

[@matthewhewitt6886]

Will this massively affect the flow rate of water through the up tube?

[@sweetdreamstime2266]

Excellent info on helping me set up my fish tank, thank you.🐠🐟🐠😊

[@alexmorrowphotography4550]

Nice one Richard sure this will help a lot of people pity BioO hadn't consulted you during the design stage Alex

[@pondguru]

I would love to design a filter and aquarium from the ground up but fixing other people's balls ups must be my calling, lol

[@jacquelinerogers7362]

I am using the bio gravel you recommended and real plants with internal filter un seen by large fake hollow stone no uplift but air stone it is keeping very clear and the water is very good have two fancy three inch goldfish and two I inch those will be in the patio pond in summer again next year if all goes well lots water changes ,I have 72 x15x15 run by external fluval with silver dollars ,tin foil barbs and two plecs been running for 25 years present occupants about 15 years plus 4foot extremely well planted from my own cuttings and seeds thought I would just mention thanks for your time

[@pondguru]

That sounds good - best of luck with that.

[@StillInLuck]

I’m here for this in 2021 and brilliant tips! I’m keen but they have their drawbacks :)

[@eticocr]

I have watched your videos many times, i am preparing to do my first setup with a Biorb cube, I wonder if the sponge should be cut square shape or rounded ? Also purchased the biogravel which is very expensive but from all reviews seems this is the way to go. Thank you for the passion to share and hopefully I will don’t end in frustration with this hobby.

[@ethanlin9925]

*Clap**clap* Another wonderful idea came up by the filter master! Gonna buy some for you soon. Making a vid about the filter media and get a call aboutthe filter media, hilarious coincidence! :D

[@pondguru]

That is the best sort of coincidence, lol I will be doing a video specifically on this media as it has a wide variety of uses.

[@susanmetz9892]

I’m just watching this 7 years later. Is this still your current recommendations? Or has something new come available?

[@peterdavies7247]

hi watched this video a year ago, did everything the lad said, however I never used the substrate, as I could not get one instead used the coloured beads that you can buy at any supplier, the tank has been running for a year shrimp love it and my gold fish have grown really big, and I have saved seven pounds a week on bio filters, it is absloutley brilliant.

[@pondguru]

That is good to hear. You can use the foam method and cove it with any sort of gravel, crushed pumice or the biogravel. The will all have different levels of filtering ability but even pea gravel over foams will do a great job.

[@peterdavies7247]

hi , I am setting up a new tank to house the fish that have got too big for the bio orb, my idea is just to fit a plastic realistic buddah statue on like a zen back ground, however,my question is can I use a coral based substrate in a clear water tank,using the same metheod as thebio orb and if so the buddah could also be used as a filter like you used in your rock filter demonstration

[@pondguru]

Yes there is no reason why that would not work.

[@yackfzay6224]

Great video. Lots information that we all need to reminds ourselves. Cleaning our aquarium.

[@Tim_3100]

You can get these from filter foams now and with the media the filter foam ring now allows you to use any gravel i hate the ceramic media it damages betta fins

[@markgillett2703]

Hi ya. Love this upgrade fish are doin so much better. I keep finding the water keeps goin green. I have no direct sunlight on the tank and the light is only on about 2 hours a night. The room is very light. Any idea how I can stop this happening please. Thank you so much for the upgrade on filter

[@tankie287]

Great Vid you have my money sick of spending loads of money on filters etc etc and the cleaning dont even go there, Many thanks for posting.

[@pondguru]

+Rob Tankie Walker No problem, I just wish Reef One had taken a look at their filtration system on their tanks as it shouldn't be up to the end user to make something work correctly.

[@Judas_Phart]

I’ve had my biOrb 60 running perfectly now for over 18 months, I keep different live plants, cardinals, glow lights, a honey gourami and my beautiful red Bloody Mary shrimp, and have had zero problems at all using the original rock and filter media that came with the biOrb tank. If you set up your biOrb correctly without rushing to add fish, you should have no problems at all. You really do not need to put a sponge cover around the filter or change the biological media that comes with the tank. The main reasons people lose fish, is because they do not do there homework on how to set up a tank properly, they are too impatient to wait to set up the tank properly, they stock the tank too quickly, they overstock the tank with too many fish, they do not do water testing properly, or ignore readings that tell them there is a problem. Instead of looking for reasons to blame this tank, you would be helping yourself far better by trying to work out what you think you may have done wrong. If you can do that, then you will find there is no reason to change any of the filtration media that comes with the biOrb. If you choose not to believe what I have put, so be it, it is your money you are spending and giving to others needlessly that helps their business profits. I have a friend that used to have an aquatics business and he used to love helping people that had problems, because by helping them it helped his business grow. He has since sold his aquarium business, but kept the pond side of his business as his pond business grew and grew and he had more work than he could handle. He also used to sell marines, but knew not much more than the majority of his customers, and a hell of a lot less than some, but they trusted him because he ran an aquarium business and people tended to trust that he must be an expert. The truth is if he was unsure, he used to ring his customers that had been keeping marines for many years, and then ring back the enquiring customer, giving them the advice that he had been given. Please don’t think I am trying to knock anyone because I am not, the point(s) I am trying to make, is that the biOrb is fully capable of doing the job, and that ANYONE can and will be successful, IF, they do enough reading and homework on fish keeping, and DO NOT try to rush.

[@markymark3075]

Changed my biorb to your filter over two years ago, still perfect!

[@pondguru]

Sounds good to me - thanks for the feedback and I'm glad you're pleased with the system.

[@jesgill6875]

@@pondguru hi where do I order this upgrade set please? All that is required?

[@pondguru]

@@jesgill6875 You may have already found it in the pinned comment and video description but here is the link to my website: www.filterpro.co.uk The kits are on the 'Filter Kits' page. Regards, Richard

[@pondguru]

Here is some further information in case you missed it in video description / pinned comment: A FEW COMMON QUESTIONS: Do I need to take the medium/course foam rings out from under the gravel to clean them? (rinse in siphoned tank water, if so how often?) - It is basically creating an undergravel filter so as long as the substrate (biogravel) is cleaned with a gravel cleaner that will remove the vast majority of uneaten food / fish waste from the biogravel and upper foam so the foams don't need to be removed unless you want to do a deep clean which I recommend doing every 12 months or so. So far I don't know anyone who has done that as they don't want to disturb anything which is working well. Ideally the gravel cleaner would be used once a week to remove waste from bottom of tank, just as it would with a normal tank - that will remove waste, do a small water change and freshen up the tank. Do I need to take the fine filter pad out to clean, if so how often? - That is just like the cleaning of the 'normal' pad for biorbs. When it is clogged it will need replacing but since you have so much filtration prior to water hitting that fine pad it could go for many months before it needs replacing - every tank is different but most will go 4-6 months before the pad needs replacing. Check after 2-3 months and if you think it would go longer next time just extend cleaning intervals to suit - no point cleaning / replacing a clean filter. Do I need to replace the foam or fine filter pad, if so how often? - See above with regard to fine pad in central filter, outer foams should last a good 18-24 months before they lose their 'bounce' but will still function as an undergravel system beyond that. If I’m taking out the foam or fine filter pad. Do I need to take out my fish before doing so to be safe? I don’t want to kill it. - If you are removing the fine pad in the centre then that can be done with fish in no problem but removing the outer foams will involve taking out the biogravel so ideally that would be done when the tank had been drained and fish removed for duration of work - muck could be stirred up when the system is pulled apart so best to do that when fish aren't present. Is the air pump that comes with the BiOrb unit sufficient? If not what power air pump will be best? - Yes the standard air pump will be fine as water flow is not restricted by the undergravel system.

[@attermire2109]

just put my bio60 upgrade in, all looking good :D

[@greatquotestoliveby]

Awesome. I bought some biohome ultimate from your partner greatwave and the service was great, they shipped it out the same day, they are doing good work. I'm excited to check my nitrate levels in a few months.

[@pondguru]

We are slowly getting distributors in different countries and they all need to be of a very high standard so great to se the good reviews from USA.

[@MrTy4455]

I have had a 30ltr Biorb now running this system for about 7 months now, I added an extra kilo of bio gravel making 2.5kg and boy has it been good. The water is gin clear and the colours on the fish are beautiful. The tank is over stocked with about 25 tetra with no losses! I’m also only changing about 6 litres of water now every couple of months just in case but I think it could go a lot longer. I’m very happy with this tank now, can’t recommend enough. Thanks

[@peterbrown7138]

Hi thank you so much for your video. The only problem it works to much. I have 3 generations of fish in after 6 months and am running out of space!!!!

[@christinaweiland1892]

Great video! So glad I saw it when I did. I was planning on using my flow15 for some shrimp and wasn’t sure how to handle the gravel since that substrate they give you is so large. I also was noticing my fish in our classic30 are getting a bit sluggish. I’m definitely going to see about upgrading their home. You say it can take a bit of overloading so I may consider getting 2-3 new shoal mates if it goes well. My tiny school of tetras would be so much happier with a few more friends.

[@robprowse8931]

I bought the filter upgrade kit about 4 months ago and my biorb looks AMAZING - super clear water and more importantly no Nitrite and virtually no Nitrate either and after such a short time. Its amazing stuff - easy to clean when water changing with a gravel cleaner which Im doing once a week at present and my amano shrimp are constantly grazing on it. Highly recommend this stuff.

[@aquilusuk]

I take it even with this setup, you'd still need to use water conditioner when changing water?

[@craigdennis1079]

What grade of foam are you using as you said its course but they come in different colours what ppi would it be thanks.

[@olivergarsideconeron]

Yet another top notch vid Richard, very edutaining. I would love it if you would attempt an aquaponic fish tank, i feel we need to raise awareness of alternative forms of fish keeping. The aquaponic method is IMO the best way of maintaining impecible water quality and (if used to grow ornimental plants) can be an extremely attractive addition to ones home. Also Im sure that if you made a system you would come up with loads of little tricks that no one had thought of before.

[@pondguru]

I will be making an aquaponics system for outside a large cabin I will be building in my garden but I only want to do the minimum research on the auto fill / drain then make up the rest. If I have a goal in mind I will not think about it and let my subconscious fill in all the gaps when I am in a sauna. Sounds like a strange way to think clearly but when my body is under the extreme stress I think very clearly, lol

[@olivergarsideconeron]

Im totally looking forward to seeing that, the aquaponic system that is, not you in the sauna... Im reminded of that cheesy movie universal soldier for some reason.. When you have reached optimal operational temperature consider the water temperature of the system if it is to be outside, the rate of reaction falls by something like 20% for every degree centigrade the water drops. Theres loads of great info on the KZbin channel Bright Agrotech. Defo worth checking out if you havent already.

[@pondguru]

Noam Chongsky I tell you sir, I will research nothing! (well except the plumbing of the growing area). The temperature may be a killer since I am in the North East where the average temperature in the height of summer is only 18 degrees C. Its damn cold

[@olivergarsideconeron]

Im in Halifax West Yorkshire so i know what you mean. It sounds like it will have to be mostly a seasonal thing. As you will already know, you cant really feed fish much if the water temp is too low.

[@pondguru]

Noam Chongsky I have something else in mind to produce the crap when the water is cold.

[@mw8653]

Hi Pondguru I brought your filter kit for my 60ltr biorb it took 7 weeks to cycle but I had high nitrate levels despite being well planted water changes didnt help my tap water was high in nitrates and was getting impatient to get some fish in. Decided to try using Purigen to get nitrates down so put 20g into a ladies ankle stocking and put it inside the original filter housing with a new piece of the fine filter foam thinned down to bout 1.5cm thickness ontop of Purigen sock,it worked a treat the levels came down and the water is unbelivably clear,looking forward to getting some fish in now,the old filter arrangment looks a joke now compared to ur upgraded kit.

[@mw8653]

Pondguru Outdoors Hi pondguru as a newbie my understanding of the tank cycle is basic will outline what I did for your assessment. The filters was installed as per your instructions guide the only thing not stated was how many gel balls shud have been put in I put the entire bag supplied in half between the black and blue filter foams half in bottom of the round filter housing with fine foam ontop of it.The water put in tank was treated with seachem prime, the air flow was set at a healthy rate of flow along with an airstone running ,tank heater was set to 80f ,plants was added to the tank after 3 weeks. I was given the orb and along with it an API master test kit, I tested for ammonia and nitrites at 2 weeks the ammonia was dark green and nitrites dark purple. At 4 weeks the ammonia test went to yellow while nitrites stayed purple after another two weeks the nitrites test went to pale blue indicating 0 ppm I took a sample to my local fish shop to check if I could now put fish into tank they said the nitrates was high at 75 ppm and to wait. I read on other forums that doing water changes was a way to lower nitrate levels.This made no difference so I tested the tap water which also gave high nitrate readings on the API test chart somewhere between 40/80 ppm The 20g of Purigen in a stocking was added 4 days ago, my API test showed change from dark amber/red colour to a light to medium amber which on the chart indicated between 5 and 20 ppm nitrates, the water did become absolutely crystal clear from already being very good before.I went back to my fish shop this morning they tested a sample and said it still has nitrates at 75ppm so I'm not so sure now Purigen has lowered the nitrates.I am going for holiday now returning Saturday when I will have another sample tested, if no change fish shop can supply RO water for a partial water change, your opinions on what I have done most welcome.

[@pondguru]

Damn, the prime looks like it has at the very least doubled the time it should have taken for the first stage of the cycle (ammonia and nitrite processing to develop) but at least it did develop - I get so many reports where it will just not get going at all when that is used. Unfortunately you now have purigen in there too so the anaerobic side is likely to not ever start or if it has started to develop in spite of the prime it may have been knocked back to zero. High nitrates is common until the anaerobic bacteria develops but with chemicals acting against it the chance of a full natural cycle developing is close to zero. In all cases which get reported to me once the prime and purigen get out of the system the bacteria can develop naturally, restoring the balance and there is way more media than is actually required to process ammonia, nitrite AND nitrate in there so eventually all should be zero. A simple swap to using a straight forward dechlorinator for water changes and carbon or activated charcoal for the polish for water clarity is all you need to allow the bacteria to naturally develop. There is nothing in the prime or purigen which reacts with any of the biohome products or any other filter media but the amount of bacterial crashes associated with those products indicates it can have anything from a retarding to devastating effect on bacteria making you rely on chemical products to keep the pollutants under control which should be done easily by bacteria. The cynic in me would think that was part of the plan? cock up the balance then sell the solution.... If you keep it simple the tank will be low maintenance and water will be very good, no doubt about it so simple changes now will allow that to happen no problem.

[@mw8653]

Pondguru Outdoors Thanks for reply a lesson learned for others from sharing information i guess will see what I've got when I return from my holiday and take it from there.

[@pondguru]

Sounds like a good plan, hope you enjoy your holiday.

[@MrSepture]

if you have any more updates please can you put them on for us of whom have an interest

[@pondguru]

Will do no problem as there are other options for substrate depending on the type of fish kept. Biorbs will be part of the series of aquatic videos I will be filming soon.

[@andymandyandsheba4571]

i upgraded one of the for a bloke to a external filter i drilled two holes in it one at the top and one at the bottom works fantastic now with a very large external fitted

[@pondguru]

Sounds very interesting, lol

[@andymandyandsheba4571]

its set up as a marine with in line uv and heater

[@pondguru]

Andy Coakes Wow, awesome work.

[@andymandyandsheba4571]

we had to use a fx 5 external it was the only one with a flow you would it would be like a washing machine but its not plans to drill it for a skimmer

[@pondguru]

Andy Coakes I'd love to see that one.

[@mark70s29]

I know this is an older video. I was looking at one of these as an update for my small glass globe for my four apple snails. My current system works perfectly. Have a micro sponge filter and a wooden air stone. Only use the filter a few times a week. No plants unfortunately.. water is beautiful and clean. Partial water change every week or so to clean the gravel. Question: could I just do away with the stock supplied filter, perhaps keeping the air intake only, and add my own substrate? IE sand, gravel and stones, that I know already work in my I gallon? I only keep snails. I have two large apple snails, about an inch, two small ones, a small Ramshorn and two small river snails and a little bladder.. nearly forgot... five small freshwater golden clams.

[@pondguru]

For the stock you have minimal filtration will be needed and plants would be ideal to make sure the water stays healthy. If you have the native ramshorn snails they will not eat plants but the striped ramshorn snails often sold in pet shops will eat plants. In any tank it would be best to have some sort of filtration and water movement so if you can have a small filter running 24/7 it wold be better than no filter at all.

[@AngryBulldogg]

Great video that man. I lost 4 neons with mine. Been hummin n harring about how to improve me giant lightbulb n this is probably the best thing ive seen. Couple of months i think I'll be paying ur site a visit for a purchase

[@MegaWINNIPEG]

The filter tube is brown, can you take filter out and wash as with the original tank?

[@lgregory6712]

We bought a 15L Biorb last September. After a week testing that Biorb had hit the correct levels we added our 14 neon tetras (from a previous leaky tank). All was well for a 3 or 4 weeks and then they started to die like one a week - we even found one trapped in the filter. After having these fish for nearly a year we now have 7 left ☹️. I watched this video, sent away for the foam pads, the biogravel etc and it is REMARKABLE, the fish are still alive, the water is crystal clear and I am really pleased - so glad I saw this video, thank you.

[@pondguru]

Great to hear that the tank is back on track and I'm glad you're pleased with the results. I'm not sure why the manufacturers aren't interested in making the biorbs function properly but it may have something to do with the crazy amount of pads and 'treatments' they sell...

[@amberliewald6524]

Last night my poor flying fox, DJ, got stuck in the cartridge! I thought it was just an old wives tale, to frighten n00bs. My partner and I have been so diligent with the tank it was lucky we performed an emergency rescue mission when we did. He was in a state of shock for awhile but has recovered somewhat, issue is that he won't eat now :(.

[@pondguru]

Hopefully the fish is on the mend now and I didn't regard the standard filter, media or filtration issues being so dangerous until some of the customers (when I had the fish shop) came in with the horror stories relating to the biorb tanks. I spoke to manufacturers but they didn't want to know about improving it, hence this video and upgrade idea.

[@amberliewald6524]

+Pondguru Outdoors It's a great video! I've contacted the aussie suppliers for the biogravel here in Australia because of you. Keep it up man. You're doing a good job here and I appreciate it!

[@pondguru]

No problem - much better to get it from your own country as the shipping from UK to AU on heavy items can be a killer. Hopefully the AU supplier has biogravel.

[@MyTinyBalcony]

I was not able to get Biogravel ain Australia when I bought mine and ended up with BioHome minis that I simply snapped in half. You need 3kg of minis to ensure coverage.

[@angelapeatman1912]

Hi I have just purchased the kit to change over my biorb but I have fish in it so wondering how I do this and get it cycled. Please help I stupidly bought the biorb without doing my research and the fish are not doing that well.

[@GlobalBesties]

Invisible filter?! I’m looking for that next.

[@ThousandYardStare]

(my other channel) I made a large 'invisible' filter here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o56tnqGcYpmoobc

[@meapantz1983]

Thank you will definitely b trying this . Also need a new lamp to fit the same lid as yours. Any links

[@christophercaras3645]

Do these tanks ever leak from that bottom hole where the airline tubing enters?

[@jamesbeacon764]

Hi I’ve just set this up how long will it take for the bacteria to build up to suitable levels before I add fish, thanks

[@modelmodz]

Biorb should be working with you on this.. Amazing.. Ordered all this today. Can't wait to Install this

[@pondguru]

Thanks for the order - it went out yesterday and should be delivered today. When Oase took over Reef One I phoned them up on a few occasions and offered the idea of making the base filter into a 2 part undergravel filter but they were not interested since that would cut down on the amount of 'extras' people bought after the initial purchase. Unfortunately that is how many companies work now as evidenced by the cartridge systems which blight aquarium filters - they need replacing every 4-8 weeks depending on type but are totally unnecessary. I'd rather see something done properly in the first place.

[@popzshorts8420]

Awesome video!!! Do you ever have to change the sponge rings that you put around the filter?

[@nikitafosmore6365]

Did you ever find an answer to this question? I’m wondering the same thing.

[@zara330]

Great video. Is there an electric filter that I can buy and put intisde this to keep the water clean like they have in stores? Like a filter that has electric pump and I just replace or clean the filter not the whole tank. Thanks a lot! Ours gets green cloudy in 2 days and in two weeks looks terrible. Can't keep cleaning this every 2 weeks! It's so much work takes about 4 hours cleaning the decorations, rocks inside the bowl etc

[@Neosphear75]

A great video, and on the back of it, secured a sale for the BiOrb 60 life upgrade kit! Looking forward to installing and seeing those good results! Will update after a few months of installation which I hope will promote many more purchases for you!

[@DanaAnnVT]

Mike Moroney How did it go?

[@tmkwood]

Hi, thanks for all the info. Would this also work for the 4 gal. Biorb classic tank?

[@pauliclayton6638]

hey brilliant video and advice many thanks

[@pondguru]

+matthew smith I close my shop 2 months ago - Yipee, best thing I ever did as now I can concentrate fully on my online business.

[@T_bomb99]

congrats. and this mod is just brilliant.

[@pondguru]

nikonektor1 This one has been years in the making, lol

[@T_bomb99]

I was going to do some research on it cuz my fiancé wanted one but after seeing this it really helped.

[@pondguru]

nikonektor1 No worries, man. I thought it was important to run through how the thing was designed to work, explain why it doesn't then show how to make it work - made for a long video unfortunately but I've never been known for putting out short videos.

[@T_bomb99]

or bad ones your channel is one of my favourites

[@302Tonya]

I have Eheim substrat pro. I am wondering if I could use this. The biorb did not give nearly enough rock material to cover the surface of the bottom at all! Thank you for your help.

[@pondguru]

302Tonya It may work but would possibly be too light to clean with a gravel cleaner. You couldn't use gravel cleaner with the large biorb media in there so you'd have to go all gravel / substrat pro.

[@DennisEMiller]

I have always wanted the BioOrb, thanks for the excellent tips for modyfying. ❤️

[@pondguru]

No worries, glad you found the video useful.

[@Evans0567]

Thank you so much for this video! I brought a biorb life 15 for my betta, not realising you couldn't use gravel as I didn't research the tank before hand as betta was in impulse buy after not owning them for about year and seeing a stunner in pets at home! Have just brought a conversion sponge on eBay for £5.99 so now and I can have a nice planted tank. Thanks again! X

[@pondguru]

Yes the simple foam block covered by ordinary aquarium gravel is fine - certainly much better than the normal filter but bear in mind your nitrate will still be sky high so water changes will still be frequent and large to keep it right. That was the reasoning behind developing the biogravel as it is a porous gravel which supports both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria for full cycle filtration.

[@dorothymiller3367]

I am sooooooo pleased I came across your video. I am going to buy a second hand Biorb so thought I should do some research first. I wasn't too impressed by having to replace the filter every few weeks so I wondered if it was a bit of a gimmick. Will be ordering the kit from you as soon as I get the tank and will leave it to run for a few weeks while I decide what fish I want to put in it. Never had a fish tank before but I think this could be a lovely and soothing reminder of diving with the real thing. Nice to watch a video made by a Scottish cousin :)

[@pondguru]

lol, I am English but not far from Scotland (North East) - I'm glad you enjoyed the video and appreciate the need to improve the biorb filtration.

[@markymark3075]

Thanks, biorbs look good but certainly need your upgrade

[@pondguru]

+markymark3075 I'm so glad everyone who has upgraded their orb has been happy as it is a great feeling to save so many fishy lives, lol

[@nicolecurtis1762]

The link provided to the upgrade kits is no longer shipping to the US due to covid restrictions. Can you provide a link to a USA seller for these kits?

[@pondguru]

It is www.greatwaveeng.com and if that does not work then the US flag at the top of any page on the FilterPro site will be a direct link - the flags are direct links to suppliers around the world.

[@alexisburke3367]

I have a 20 gallon biorb coming and I want to upgrade the filtration as I’ve been hearing mixed reviews on this setup. Am I able to find the “gravel” you’re using in stores or do I have to order it? How much would you recommend I use? Do I ever need to replace it? And for the sponges you’re using, would I just clean those everytime I clean the tank or only some times? Do I just rinse them out or should I replace them completely? I’m sorry if you’ve answered these questions already, I’m just having a hard time understanding everything as I’m new to it all and don’t know all the “lingo” or anything about filtration 😆 I hope I’m able to get some feed back soon as I can’t wait to start my new aquarium !

[@stepsfan87]

Can you use this in the all ponds solution 1400? I’m upgrading from internal filter and wondered if I could transfer it?

[@Freedom_Fighter72]

Hi, I just got my 8g BioOrb classic, and pimped it like you did..I have bio balls on top of my foam...I'd like to add plants to it, could I put on top of the bio balls my Fluval stratum? Or should I remove the bio balls and put the stratum in? Thanks from Michigan...I enjoy your videos

[@PEACHY1ANDONLY]

Your videos are brilliant, glad you have sorted Biorbs.

[@davidperrin1675]

I have done what you said and have had mine for 9years. And running on a under gravel filter have had lots of success with it. I don’t have room for a bigger tank mine is 60 litres. It house zebrafish 15. And whitecloud 15. And 4 platy. Only bo part water charges and have lots of baby fish.