Pimp My Filter #37 - Fluval 207 Canister Filter

[@pondguru]

Fluval 207 (Ebay UK / EU): ebay.to/2WiwpmK Fluval 207 (Amazon): geni.us/EC0mQ Foams and Biohome Ultimate: www.filterpro.co.uk (FilterPro site has links to suppliers in other countries) Biohome Ultimate on Amazon UK: geni.us/GDV8oLd Biogravel on Amazon UK: geni.us/o98PP An updated version of one of Fluval's mid-range canister filters which is suitable for a normally stocked tank of around 100 litres (for a FULL cycle). The supplied media is a bit disappointing as you will see in the video but that is swapped out anyway so it doesn't matter. There have been many improvements made over the previous version (206) and the price has increased accordingly but it is still an excellent filter which is functional and well made - certainly better made than almost every other canister filter available today. Although I run through the main improvements in this video a video from Fluval explains exactly what all the improvements are (better and in more detail than me): bit.ly/2Fea4AP The set up method of this filter will also apply to all the filters in the range (with varying amounts of media required). WHAT IS A FULL CYCLE? *If someone tells you the aquarium nitrogen cycle ends with the production of nitrate that is incorrect - please read on* A full cycle is completed by bacteria - the aerobic part of biological filtration which processes ammonia to nitrite and nitrite to nitrate followed by an anaerobic part which processes nitrate into soluble nitrogen which bubbles off to the atmosphere. Therefore it requires a suitable amount of excellent quality filter media to be able to provide the environment for both aerobic AND anaerobic bacteria - that is what Biohome ultimate does perfectly but even with such good media there are limitations and we recommend the following amounts for different stocking scenarios: (1 US gallon = 3.8 litres) (1kg = 2.2 lbs) Average community tropical aquarium = 1kg per 100 litres Average coldwater aquarium = 1kg - 1.5kg per 100 litres Predator aquarium = 1.5kg - 2kg per 100 litres Large cichlid aquarium = 1.5kg - 2kg per 100 litres Malawi / Tanganyikan aquarium = 1.5kg - 2kg per 100 litres Marine aquarium = 1.5kg - 2kg per 100 litres Average mixed fish pond = 1kg per 200 litres Average koi pond = 1kg per 150 litres You may be disagreeing with the above figures but remember that they are for a FULL CYCLE not half a job - achieving 0 ammonia and 0 nitrite is quite easy since aerobic bacteria grows freely on any surface but the anaerobic bacteria responsible for COMPLETING the cycle needs more a specialized habitat. Size a filter properly, set it up sensibly and you will have perfect water - it's that simple....and your filter won't be the dreaded 'Nitrate factory'. This series of videos is all about trying to squeeze more efficiency out of internal and external aquarium filters which generally have a limited filtering capacity - If you have a filter you'd like me to feature in a video then please contact me on: [e-mail] 07772848730 (Richard) Anyone who sends a filter (UK only at present) will have it upgraded and returned to them for free and the only cost you will pay is how much it costs to ship it to me - I'm helping to boost your filter and the resulting videos will hopefully be useful to viewers all over the world so it's a win/win. The following videos will be useful to anyone interested in learning more about filtration, bacteria and making the conditions for your fish as good as possible: Sizing a canister properly and filter set up: goo.gl/om19un Looking INSIDE different filter media: goo.gl/hZWS6c Bacteria and filter media: goo.gl/123gAF How to clean an aquarium: goo.gl/bPMhvh Aquarium tips / filtration playlist: goo.gl/pXgqVj This channel is purely a hobby for me so I will never ask viewers to donate money for any of my projects or charge anyone for information - information should be shared freely and I certainly don't consider myself an 'expert' in anything I pursue as a hobby so please do your own research, never accept anything as 'fact', reject anyone claiming to be some sort of authority or 'expert' and make your own minds up about anything you wish to study. We all are on a long path of learning......... RECOMMENDED AMAZON PRODUCTS: amzn.to/2Mw81OU INSTAGRAM: bit.ly/2KAk1fx FILMING EQUIPMENT: Panasonic HC-VX870 HD camcorder geni.us/3UwE +Rode stereo microphone: geni.us/4OL Zomei Z666 tripod: geni.us/1a1af3 Manfrotto MTPIXI-B PIXI mini tripod: geni.us/87f7 If you've enjoyed this video please check out the playlists on my channel for hundreds more - on a variety of subjects. Feel free to share or link any of my videos on facebook, twitter, forums etc. for the benefit of anyone you think may also enjoy watching. See you next time. Pondguru

[@alanthrelfall8937]

Hi I have the 207 filter Been up and running for just over a month now. Its got the media that came with it in. I have just order some Bioholme + and some fine matting frome your site. Can you tell me how I go about changing my media to the Bioholme without getting a ammonia spike. Thanks in advance.

[@pondguru]

@@alanthrelfall8937 As long as you swap out the old media gradually it will be fine. There is very little media with the 407 so you could probably fill almost one tray with the new media if you got rid of one of the bags of carbon then the next 1-2 weeks swap out half the old media, another 1-2 weeks swap out the remaining carbon, another 1-2 weeks swap out the remaining old media? There are numerous ways to do the change but as long as it is gradual there is no reason why you'd get any spikes. The biohome comes with free starter balls which help to control any excess ammonia and seed the media so it should be a smooth transition.

[@alanthrelfall8937]

@@pondguru thanks but its the 207 that I've got the one you've just done in the video this is attached to. But I get the idea thanks for your advice.

[@schunter20]

Is it bad to break up the biohome into smaller pieces to perfect line the tray?

[@pondguru]

@@schunter20 It is not ideal to be breaking up the media but plenty of people do that to fit it into smaller spaces and it works fine. If you haven't already bought the media it may be worth considering the biogravel as it enables you to pack out small spaces very effectively. We make media all sorts of shapes and sizes for different situations but it all works the same.

[@matthewperegoy]

I have two 207s on my 36g bow front. I swapped the ceramic for lava rock and tossed the carbon for extra poly fill (heavily planted tank). I run them at about half power to cut back the flow. This also allows me to do maintenance individually and not risk crashing my cycle. Love this filter!

[@pondguru]

Nice one - that sounds like a good set up for the tank so I'm glad it's working well for you. Thanks for watching and appreciating the videos.

[@Truth-Machine5000]

Hi, how do you run at "half power"?

[@BillyDean-b9b]

How did you run at half power do you mean you adjusted the flow output?

[@matthewperegoy]

Exactly. They have an adjustable output.

[@Truth-Machine5000]

O.K. gotcha. Thanks!

[@vacuumnut8300]

Thanks for the video. I always enjoy watching what you post. Just purchased a Fluval 207. I am using the bio-gravel and it does not appear to slow the filter down at all. This 207 is really quiet and powerful. I have it setup in my bedroom. It is not in a cabinet. I have to get right on top of it to hear anything.

[@leeporter6849]

I swapped out the bio gravel as it did slow the filter flow rate ,also you get more bypass across the top of the filter

[@Daedalus33]

“I don’t wanna try and make myself look clever because I’m not.” Well you’re right about that, you’re not just clever, you’re downright genius and more importantly, experienced. Great videos, wish i’d seen this before buying my 307 so i could do everything before starting it up rather than after

[@sam3d]

Kick my boots too??

[@Fabafa78]

I bought a 200L tank few days ago and started fishless cycle.bought a fluval 207 filter..and today ordered biohome ultimate media from filter pro.thank you SIR.many thanks.

[@Riddlemt]

I went with 407 for my 240L 😅

[@kkbroph663]

Okay. I'm pimping my Fluval 207. Just went to Great Wave and got some "biohome." Been a long time since I set up a tank, and the filter was a little intimidating since I'd always had the hang-on-back dealios, but watching you mess around with it made me much more comfortable with it. Love the video, love the accent, thank you!!!

[@metakis]

You have 207 for how many liters?

[@rogercraggs2034]

Hi, after watching your video, I purchased a new Fluval 307 filter and a V2ectron UV filter for my well stocked and planted 110 ltr fresh water aquarium which had been running with a Fluval U2 internal filter. Before I used the 307, I carried out youir mods. I added loads more filter media that looks like pumice, a lot better than the supplied media. I added half the media that was in my fluval U2 filter to seed it. (I had pimped that as per your vid too) and ran with both the internal and external filters for 3 weeks.I tested the water daily for the first fortnight, ammonia 0.0, Nitrite was a little up and down in the first 10 days, varying from 0.0 to 0.25, but settled down to 0.0 after that. Nitrate stayed at 0.0 throughout. After 10 days, I turned off the internal U2 filter and monitored levels twice daily (prob overkill) and was happy that the 307 was now doing all the work on it's own. One problem that I had been experiencing was Algae on the glass that my cleaner fish could not cope with. Being a relative beginner, I took advice from my local stockist to check the Phosphate levels, which I found to be horribly high straight out of my tap! I put two Fluval phosphate removal sachets in the filter and added some liquid Phos-out4 Phosphate remover. I had been running the LED lights for 12 hrs on/12 off via a timer, so I bought a sunrise/sunset progammable timer from Amazon (15.00) and set the max brightness to 50% with 8 hrs on 16 off And so far after 2 weeks like this, everything is really good. Lowering the light helps reduce the algae, but still gives enough for the plant groth. During all this, I was doing 20% water change a week, with a 60% change at 5 weeks. Thanks for your brill videos, they were the deciding factor for me in choosing both filters. Great job!!

[@yayanismallgood8190]

roger craggs did you leave your uv filter on all the time?

[@nathanaelhall6511]

i love it when i get information straight and factual minus all the bullshit. Thank you i shall now order some new media.

[@daley2404]

Awesome Video! I have two 207's for my two 20Longs. Love them. Different media per tanks needs. I'm very distracted by the Vienna Sausages behind the "Pondguru" sign. LOL

[@stevehalfpenny5398]

Just bought one of these after watching a number of your reviews and have purchased from you the upgrades you suggest. Great video. Expert advise 👍🏻😀

[@henry12371]

Just purchased a fluval 307 and I found your video very helpful thank you

[@bonesawarm6987]

I run a fluval 407 on my reef and it’s working brilliantly and the tank is thriving

[@iancampbell3675]

Love it when you ramble . That's when you give your best info 😃 BTW guys 07 sponges fit your 06 so that's a plus if you can't get bumpy foam 👍

[@MrBlake-cz4km]

They even fit the 04 and I’m guessing the 05 too, they all are pretty much the same

[@ecofilterireland6454]

I'm learning a bit every day about fish keeping. Gonna binge on your videos cheers boss!

[@ThousandYardStare]

(my other channel) Hopefully you'll find something useful to your situation in the videos - thanks for watching and best of luck with the tank.

[@IsaacSchultz-lz8jc]

I do have one critique the first set of sponges you want to be the same ppi because it doesn’t go from one to the other it goes through both at the same time, I originally thought it was 2 stages but there really isn’t anything to separate the white and blue sponges.

[@pondguru]

When the lid of the filter is on it should create the division by capping off the area above the foam cartridge but there is no problem using either coarse and medium of two coarse foams there - just use whatever works best for your situation and it's all good.

[@IsaacSchultz-lz8jc]

I’m sorry I did look at it wrong, I didn’t see where the check value closes it of from the white sponge so it is 2 stages.

[@IsaacSchultz-lz8jc]

Just forget what I said

[@pondguru]

@@IsaacSchultz-lz8jc I usually forget what I've said so remembering what others have told me isn't a skill I have, lol

[@IsaacSchultz-lz8jc]

It can be way harder than it should.

[@dolphinliam888]

I always go for the next size up recommended for any tank. It pays off in the long run. Currently using the Fluval 407s on 240l tanks.

[@lostmangos]

Where is the cheapest place to buy that model?

[@hkja99]

And I the 307 on a 120 liters

[@privateportall]

Good info and all completely correct. It is worth mentioning that bacteria also populate the substrate, rocks and wood in your tanks. Heavily planted environments also take care of nitrates... in fact... they need some for nutrition.

[@IFIXCASTLES]

I pimped my 206 and am very happy !! Added a foam to intake tube too. A lot less muck.

[@edyoung6573]

Excellent Video on setup!!! I have my 2 top trays full of Matrix then a polishing pad and purigen on top.

[@pondguru]

Good one - I'm glad you found the video useful. Ideally the fine (polishing) pad would be in the bottom tray to prevent the media, 'matrix' (pumice) in this case becoming dirty and the pores becoming prematurely clogged but since the grade of pumice used as 'matrix' is so variable and dense it probably won't make much difference having the fine pad at the top of this filter. If you ever upgrade to better media it would definitely be best to have the fine pad in the bottom tray for best efficiency.

[@AbdulMateen.]

I can verify that biohome does exactly what Richard says. I've been using it for about 6 months now. I haven't done a water change in 3 weeks, I did an API master test and nitrates is showing 0. I was amazed, any setup can get rid of ammonia and nitrite but seeing 0 nitrates is the key.

[@espeterson522]

Is it a planted tank? How heavy is the stocking?

[@melissathompson9700]

Thank you!! I’ve got my Fluval 206 media all the wrong way round 🤣 will change it tomorrow!

[@rickycarr1122]

Same here with my 207

[@chrisl7228]

I just got one for my 26 gallon for an amazing price, can’t wait to get my bio home ultimate

[@ResfeberBear]

Brilliant Video, I'm setting mine up today and feeling much more confident now!

[@lostmangos]

Did it go ok?

[@MrG.Ivan76]

"get the top off" bit chilly for that 🤣

[@Dankbadge420]

I love these videos. Keep up the amazing, knowledgeable video's Master Pondguru..... thanks to your videos I now have the understanding that there is no such thing as over filtration on a tank, but there can be such a thing as too much flow. I have a Fluval 307 on my planted 20g tall Neon Tetra tank. I have been unable to get the coarse fine and medium grade filters so I instead acquired a second mechanical filtration set for the Fluval 307 and am using the stock prefilters, a pair of the black course bio-foams in the bottom and middle tray topped with a fine pad then top tray filled with your bio-gravel. And of course the fluval edge pre-filter sponge on the intake. I'll be getting the correct filter pads here soon so I'll be also getting more bio-gravel to add to the middle tray. Love the videos and the info as well as the best aquarium bio-media in the world!!

[@Boss-zo4lw]

I had a EF from all pond but it was a refurbished one so sent that junk back, play safe pay the extra 30 for this Fluval. But do grab a Booster filter from All Ponds, use that and take out the pads on the Fluval and fill that side with even more Ultimate etc.

[@mjv8493]

I wish I have a Fluval 207 for my Aquarium Tank. Very nice External Filter. Very Informative video. Thank you.

[@1flu1]

Had a 407 for around 6 weeks now. Pimped it with biohome as soon as I got it. It appears to be a really good filter. Seems like they may have listened to you Richard with the addition of the bumpy foams.

[@Risk4Reward]

Getting a 407 for my new setup, how much biohome did your 407 take?

[@1flu1]

Hi Noah. There are 4 trays in the 407. I left the bottom tray for mechanical filtration (course, medium and fine pads) and the top 3 trays for biological filtration, got 1 kilo per tray. It's a bit of a pain but I found I could get more media in if I stacked it up almost like brickwork. Don't bother with chemical filtration, you'll find you don't need it. I got the biohome from Richard on ebay. Seems he's the only one who sells it. Well worth it. Hope this helps.

[@FreezingFaces]

@@1flu1 they have a website FilterPro.co.uk as well.

[@leongrey9331]

Any chance you can pimp the Fluval 307? I see they have changed some of the sponges.

[@TheSanctumSanctorium]

Excellent video. Just found you. Great advice. I have a 207 and will be upgrading the media. Very many thanks

[@sidioushatesyou5856]

I’m running my reef tank with a 406 and it’s working wonders my corals are thriving... and people say canisters cause problems

[@bigbowlowrong4694]

I wish you tested these out. Not necessarily prove each build obtains a full cycle (that would take ages), but running this on a tank for an hour after feeding then opening it back up again would at least demonstrate if heavier particles are getting trapped where they’re supposed to be. Just my $0.02

[@brianbaird433]

I have been using bio-home ultra in both my AP2000+ex filters and it certainly does what Richard says.

[@connie6705]

Because of your video I purchased this model for my 29 gallon community and it’s a fantastic filter. I’m also using the biohome media and it has greatly improved my nitrate level. I cannot find the polishing pad anywhere for the 207 and am wondering if you know if the polishing pad for the 206 would fit the 207? Great video thank you!

[@mariot.5178]

You can cut it out of some buyed xxl bag fore 1/5 of the price fore the orginal pads

[@DanielIonescu1972]

I use Juwel biopad xl 15cm*15cm*0.5 cm, I putted in 2 so it's fit perfect in Fluval 206 basket , it's cheaper and you have 5 pcs in a box

[@sergiocina6175]

I really like your style and the linking of other videos to avoid repeating same stuff that the company already said. Super plus in efficiency. I am of the opinion that sponges are wonderful bio medium too and for that I use the 30ppi. When looking for porous material the sponges are definitely one. And the Hole's size guarantee that it doesn't fill up easily, killing any bacteria trapped behind

[@josephharper6803]

great video, I just bout 2 fluval 407s for my 90 gallon discus tanks, along with 10 kilograms of the biohome ultimate media, for my other filters as well. going to see if it helps with nitrate, I do 50% water changes every two days on my discus tanks to keep my nitrates at zero, I also use 4 inch sand beds on all my tanks.

[@kjeldlarsen912]

Wauw 50% every two days ?....nice water bill I guess

[@josephharper6803]

that's how I keeps nitrates at zero only for the discus, that's why I bought the biohome ultimate, to see it I could spread out the water changes but so far I have not seen the difference. I don't over feed or over stock. I see a lot of videos with over stocking do these people check there nitrates, one water change a week is not enough.

[@BlakeAdamsCO]

Joseph, any update on how the new media is working? I use Matrix, have for many years with great success but this biohome trend seems to be keeping momentum so curious as to your experience thus far.

[@rgorji]

Great videos. Thank you for the straight talk.

[@SmartGadgetShow]

Hi, in your 206 pimp video you never put the carbon in, nice to see it included this time. 👍 Also on the other video it was mentioned that old carbon can release toxins back and i think you said do not put above bio as it could leak down onto it. !! In my fluval U2 the bio appears to be last. I have pimped my 206 (with help from yourself) I might try and fit more bio like you have.

[@PeterHenrichsen]

Thank you, very much! Good explanations. I might buy the FX4, though :)

[@Durkur_Owl]

Wonderful info in this video and even just in the description portion. Thanks for your expertise and willingness to provide such fascinating detail. I am planning on setting up a 29 gallon planted tank and am not sure if paying just a little more for the 307 instead of the 207 is worth it or not.

[@pondguru]

I'm glad you found the video useful - thanks for watching. Yes, it is always better to go for the bigger filter as it will need cleaning less often and will cover you if you decide to change the tank from a planted tank to a well stocked fish tank. There is no point buying a filter which is just big enough for the current situation if the current situation may change in the future - plan for the future and only buy once. Best of luck with the tank.

[@Durkur_Owl]

@pondguru I did go for the bigger one, thanks for the advice (I chocked it full of the Biohome too). Before watching your vids I had no idea that full cycling where nitrates are controlled was even a thing! I have a 20 year old planted 20g tank with HOB filters that I just top off from evaporation with the occasional water change. I love the idea of getting this new aquarium at full-cycle, hope I can get it there. Fun new project.

[@pondguru]

@@Durkur_Owl If the tank is planted it should be easy to achieve a full cycle as long as the stock is sensible and filtration is adequate. Just avoid using water conditioners which mess with the ammonia, nitrite and nitrate (e.g. Seachem Prime) and the bacteria will be free to colonize the tank and filter in line with the available food (ammonia, nitrite and nitrate).

[@Durkur_Owl]

@pondguru Yeah, I avoided using my Prime. Is it okay to use something for the chlorine/chloramines when adding tap water? I have 2 things other than Prime: Seachem Neutral Regulator, and Fritz A.C.C.R. I understand about leaving the ammonia and nitrites alone. What do you recommend for detoxifying the chlorine though?

[@ThousandYardStare]

@@Durkur_Owl (my other channel) Any of the normal conditioners will be fine as long as they don't mention farting about with ammonia, nitrite and nitrate. I always recommend API Stress Coat as I've never heard of any problems establishing a full cycle when using that one.

[@cartouchator]

I have this filter in my 130 litres long tank, and have zero nitrates with a somewhat heavy stock of fish. It does have plants however so I'm sure the zero nitrates has as much to do with the plants as it does with the filter. I'm actually having to add fertilizers to increase nitrates because not enough is being generated for the plants, which is fine. As far as ammonia and nitrites, it has been rock solid. never seen it above 0 for a very long time. even after thorough rinse down of everything inside the filter.

[@pondguru]

Good one - I'm glad the water is testing perfectly for you no matter what is responsible for that. Best of luck with the tank.

[@50shadesofgreen]

Good day to you Richard !! 💚🐡🐠 another excellent pimp my filter video today 🐠🐡💚 !!

[@dragonslayer8724]

I'd love to try out the biohome in my 307, only place I can find that sells it (Amazon) seems that it's over priced. $26 USD for one pound/ half kilo

[@pondguru]

The price for media on some platforms in the US is ridiculous and believe me, I'm as peed off about it as anybody. However, I have no control over the US market and can't ensure that prices are kept fair which is why I always link to the main distributor in the US from my website and link to my website in every video description and pinned comment - my website is www.filterpro.co.uk and at the top of every page there are links to all the main distributors around the world including the one for the US www.greatwaveeng.com so that is the only place I would recommend anyone in the US uses for Biohome until the pricing gets sorted out over there. I hope that helps.

[@lfergusson148]

Hi, Richard I have the 307, in my bottom tray I have the black fluval sponge and filter floss on top, middle tray medium sponge, with biohome on top, top tray biohome and white floss on top, if I removed the floss on top, I have some spare biohome, which means I could get a little more biohome in, or should I leave it as it is with the Floss in the bottom and top tray.

[@Najakeeper]

I got the 407 yesterday for my 200L tank (1 large red belly piranha and ~20 black neon tetras). Based on your previous videos, I have filled the trays with about 2kg of biohome media. I have also added a medium coarse filter between the fine filter and the coarse filter at the bottom tray. I skipped the carbon for max media use. I haven't changed the side foams though, should I? Also, I haven't used the primer. Initial burst had a lot of air bubbles but it settled to normal flow pretty quickly. Thank you so much for these videos.

[@hakman239]

Piranha need to be in groups

[@ratdrayton]

I know I’m late to the party but only been in the hobby 6 months. I’m gonna be filling my canister with biohome over the next couple of months (got to sort 1 tray out at a time so I can maintain bacteria)

[@deanob29]

Back again with a pimped filter 👍

[@Flash25296]

I am wondering if the foam in these filters need to be soaking in treated water before implementing the filter. I have a 25 gallon tank and I am switching from an in tank pump with a sponge surround filter to the Fluval 207. I am planning to run both for about 1-2 months until the new filter setups up properly. Also I like the new medium bumpy foam you added into the Fluval 207 in this pimp my filter setup. I am not in the UK and I am not seeing this type of foam at a partner link on your website. Any other suggestions. Thank for all the good information and experience. I am excited to move to this cannister filter and I just hope it goes well. I am ordering the Biohome Ultimate and the Biohome super gravel. Thanks

[@edgru1]

Thanks a lot! I’m considering a Fluval 207 just now for my 80L aquascape tank and now I’m convinced about this external filter. Question: since I can’t find locally the exact bio media you use, would you recommend seachem matrix as well? And how about leaving one container with the ceramic media that comes with filter and one basket with seachem matrix? So combining both not to throw away the Fluval media that came with the filter. Thanks a lot!!!

[@pondguru]

The Fluval media is OK - the 'matrix' is low quality pumice sold for a ridiculous price so I'd say go for 25mm alfagrog if you want a decent media which is better than the low quality pumice and Fluval rings. Most of the Biohome is sold online.

[@garethedwards8744]

Hi Richard, I've just pimped my fluval 207 with one of your kits which is working great. Just wanted your opinion on using a canister filter for oxygenation. I've set my outlet to break the water surface which is producing lots of tiny bubbles all through the tank but I see lots of videos saying you should use air pumps. Any chance of a video on your thoughts?

[@obamama4632]

It doesnt really make much of a difference, surface agitation is what matters.

[@alltankedup]

Great filters fluval I only wish the bio media trays for the fx6 were bigger

[@simonshaw5119]

I’m glad you addressed this Richard as I use 10kg of Biohome Ultimate in my 330LITRE Fancy Goldfish tank with 2 Ext filters, both with booster filters for the mechanical purpose. I heard Cory from Aquarium Co-Op saying biohome doesn’t support AB in a canister too. I love the Co-Op and also Biohome so thanks for clearing this Up!

[@The_Robert.Fletcher]

I agree with you but Cory will get a bee in his bonnet over some issues. I have seen him silently back down. Richard does a fantastic job. Not enough ichthyology in the hobby it is so opinionated.

[@andy2798100]

That was a great video Richard. I really enjoy the way you explain stuff. Your right about people not using enough biohome, I'm guilty of doing the same. I tried to use about two kilo on my 245 litre reef tank with no luck. The only reason I was trying to use less biohome is because it makes the filter quite heavy. Anyway I'm having to down size sadly to a smaller tank that's only 125 litres so maybe I will try again with the fluval 207 and biohome ultimate as I wont need so much. The only problem I can see with the fluval is it has a lot of mechanical media which isn't very good in a reef tank so I will have to find a way of running the filter with less mechanical media.

[@leeporter6849]

I have a 307 with spray bar on my 98 litre tank ,filled with bio gravel .Its a heavily stocked tank with no live plants . I dont think you will see a full cycle with a 207 canister on a 125litre tank

[@silverblack3680]

I have an aqueon qietflow 300 cannister filter. I am in Canada I dunno if you have them in the UK. But a pimped aqueon filter I would absolutely love to see.

[@TheComment2011]

Would this be too much for a 54L? Says 60-220L but it's always better to have more filtration isn't it?

[@rockfella27]

No such thing as overfilteration.

[@Martin_Gregory]

@@rockfella27 Not entirely true: this will create a storm on a 50L tank - even at maximum choke. 107 would be wiser.

[@rockfella27]

@@Martin_Gregory Yes it could.

[@FantaLiteBrav]

I'm researching good filters for my African bullfrog enclosure. I dont understand the pricing because the 207 only costs £10 more than the 107. Why even bother with the 107?

[@fagan4119]

Interesting to hear your thoughts on anaerobic bacteria and bio media in high flow conditions. It totally makes sense. I wonder though if the dissolved oxygen diffuses. Does the overall solution want to move to a state of equilibrium?

[@pondguru]

Anaerobic bacteria will not thrive in an oxygenated environment which is why it only colonizes the inner parts of the media where the flow has gone down tunnels, slows right down and been deoxygenated by the action of the aerobic bacteria living on the more outward parts of the media (where the conditions are more suitable for it). It's exactly the same with a deep sand bed with the top few millimeters of sand being colonized by aerobic bacteria and the deeper parts of the substrate being colonized by the anaerobic bacteria. Flow can be as fast as you want over the sand or over the media but as long as water can get down into the lower levels of substrate or into the core of suitable filter media it will become deoxygenated so that you have a good mix of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria actively working to reduce pollutants. The more 'open' a filter media structure of substrate is the quicker the water can get through it and the less chance it will have of supporting anaerobic activity. The vast majority of filter media types have a very open structure or a largely sealed inner structure so they do not replicate what happens in a deep sand bed. The Biohome is literally a deep sand bed reformed into a convenient shape to fit a variety of filters. Hope that makes sense.

[@fagan4119]

​@@pondguru It does. Thanks for your response. I failed to consider aerobic bacteria in these "dead zones" consuming whatever oxygen that does diffuse, if in fact it even does diffuse toward equilibrium. Cheers.

[@ThousandYardStare]

@@fagan4119 (my other channel) No worries and I'm glad you can see where I'm coming from. I see many people on other channels making the blanket statement that anaerobic bacteria can't live in a heavily oxygenated fast flow but they never consider the type of filter media and what the structure of that will offer for bacteria. It is 100% true that if a filter is filled with ceramic rings or other unsuitable media there will be very little chance of providing any habitat for anaerobic activity but with the right media the opposite is true no matter what the flow around the outside of the media is.

[@russeljohn3471]

Another informative video. Thanks mate

[@normanshigeyasu4670]

Do you have a video on how to replace the black ribbed Fluval pipes with clear vinyl tubing for lily pipes?

[@aussbasstony9763]

Awesome mate thanks for the video👍

[@stuartcross749]

Hi Richard I have some big square foam pads black course white medium and blue fine witch wood be best for my fillter as on video blue are one side white the other side thanks

[@susanbriggs862]

I upgraded my canister to Fluval 407 and added the maximum amount of Biohome Ultimate the trays could hold on my heavily stocked 55 gallon. It's been almost a year and I have good nitrate control finally. With weekly 25% water changes, the nitrates aren't zero but they never get to 40 ppm (stay around 25-30 ppm). If I could add more Biohome, I'm certain I could get down to below 20 ppm. Question: does Biohome ever break down and need replacing?

[@leeporter6849]

I have a 65 gallon with 2x Fluval 407 canisters with spray bars on my averagely stocked tank .Not sure if a single 407 on your heavily stocked tank will be enough filtration .Biohome will break down eventually but will be about 20-25years (depending on the filter cleaning intervals )

[@susanbriggs862]

@@leeporter6849 Thank you! I was going to go bigger on filter but I think I'll take your suggestion of adding another 407 so I can increase the amount of biohome as my angel and acara are both over 6 inches and I have a school of tetras and corys as well. I've upped my water changes to 30% every 5 days. Its heavily planted which helps. I also use spray bars, love them. I like the idea of redundant canisters in case one breaks down.

[@leeporter6849]

@@susanbriggs862 WOW ,30% water change every 5 days with a heavily planted tank will be fine with a single 407 filled with biohome (my canisters are filled with Bio Gravel). I only do 50%-60% water changes once every month (hence the two canisters) .The most important thing is to have good quality media and not ceramic ring/plastic balls ect.

[@stevenbartlett1597]

Thanks. Great info. Is it worth setting up a canister prefilter and increasing the bio media In the fluval? It would be easier to clean the mechanical filters.

[@MrJimmyn82]

excellent info.- i hope it's ok to ask this here...i am going to switch from fluval internal to 207....so, do i leave the internal running then fit the 207 and wait (while monitoring water readings)? or turn off internal and use one of the 'quick start' additives?....sorry if it's a silly question :)

[@pondguru]

There is no point wasting money on instant start chemicals if you already have a tank running (I'm assuming it has been running for a while and has fish in) so just run both filters on the tank for a good 2-3 weeks then remove the old filter and the new filter will be able to take over. That's assuming that you have a good quality filter media which will be suitable for bacteria - maturing plastic media can take months. Make sure not to use a water conditioner which messes with the ammonia, nitrite and nitrate as it will starve the bacteria and delay the maturing process of the new filter. A normal conditioner (e.g. API Stress Coat) will simply make the water safe for life and allow the beneficial bacteria to reach a full population in line with the available food (ammonia, nitrite and nitrate). Hope that makes sense.

[@MrJimmyn82]

@@pondguru many thanks

[@robhall2570]

I’ve just got a 207 and unlike the 206 you pimped, you didn’t alter the sponges in the bottom tray. Is there a reason for this?

[@ronnytejada7008]

Great explanation. It's beneficial rambling

[@pondguru]

No worries and I'm glad you found the video useful.

[@The_Scriggles]

How do you feel about seachem matrix?

[@stormtrooper2010]

I have this EXACT filter, I tossed out the Fluval ceramics, left the bottom tray as is, filled the top 2 trays with Matrix and a piece of filter mat cut to size on top of each tray. Runs like a champ on my 29 gallon, heavily planted community tank.

[@MrBarfletcher]

Thank you for all the great videos - very well made and explained in great detail. Following on from the video above I now have new Eheim Mech and Bio medias for my 407. It's running about 6 week with the media which was supplied with the unit so based on your advice this media is goign in the bin. Can I just replace it with the new media or is it worth while leaving a small amount of old media with the new to encourage bacteria growth? Thanks again

[@pondguru]

If you have the substrat pro media in the top 3 trays it may be worth leaving that in as it is a good media but if you're changing media iin a mature tank it's always best to do that gradually over 6-8 weeks one tray at a time.

[@MrBarfletcher]

@@pondguru thank you for the reply. Will do that so

[@garrymobey912]

Hi buddy I have a Fluval Rio 90 tank and I have just bought a second hand 107 filter. Can I put the inlet and outlets on the short side of the tank as it will fit better. I have an internal filter ATM and I’m planning to put new media in as you recommended and have the 107 running as well for a few weeks.

[@colingill9317]

Great tutorial and presentation, keep up the great work. I'm having serious trouble trying to buy a new ceramic shaft for my 207, no where sells them, any advice greatly appreciate. Cheers

[@richardhedges3416]

Hi Pond Guru I was wondering if you can tell me the best equivalent filter to the fx6 for the price thanks in advance

[@gokhanertan72]

Eheim Experience 250 vs Fluval 207. Which one do you prefer if you have a 60P aquarium in your bedroom?

[@fubardad8892]

@Pondguru - Do you recommend anything to change the outlet/egress valve to a spray bar? Im setting up a 20g long (75L) for a Betta and plant tank. I do plan to put about 10 tetra, 1 Betta, and cleaner crew so the bioload should be medium? The issue is the 207 is stated to give "too much" flow and I wanted to know a recommendation to slow down the flow?

[@beasontech]

There is a lever to adjust the flow rate on the lid. It works very well

[@josephb1404]

I don’t get the point in bumpy filter foam. Yes, the surface area to volume ratio of the foam is increased if you picture it as a solid, but the key feature is that it is a foam: by putting dents into it, you remove fibres and hence reduce the total surface area of foam. Surely?

[@k9feces]

Exactly

[@chrisdomenici9107]

Great video! What do you prefer instead of carbon?

[@leighspeck4398]

Another informative video. Thinking of upgrading my 406. Looks like I will be now. Request- what’s the chances in seeing you pimp up a fluval curve tank or equivalent?

[@cranbers]

I think the handles that act as pry bars to get the cover off is worth it alone to upgrade. My 306 I loath cleaning because im going to fight pull that cover off.

[@anthonydonnelly4069]

Enjoyed your videos as per usual. Always very interesting. I would like this filter for a fairly well stocked tank of guppies (about 80 litres) but am uncertain about heavy water flow for this fish. Would this filter be ok or another size or manufacturer be best. Thanks

[@iancampbell3675]

You can turn the flow rate down . Makes it a perfect filter for any tank . For guppies I suggest lift the shut off value to about halfway . I have a beta living quite happily with this flow rate

[@anthonydonnelly4069]

OK Thanks mate. Sound good. I like the water fall effect you get with some other models that have a spray bar. The outlet bar is submerged. Fluval video suggested outlet must be submerged. Wonder if a tube could be attached to outlet that is sent upwards and a prosthetic bar added along the tank wall. Maybe this will affect working of filter. What do you think. Regards Tony

[@iancampbell3675]

Fluval suggest keeping the outlet submerged so that you don't draw air into the filter and break the siphon . If you can attach a spray bar using a piece of excess tubing but keep the outlet submerged then no reason it shouldn't work

[@anthonydonnelly4069]

Goody Gumdrops.! Thanks. I will get one of these and take into account the 50% value you recommend. I have discovered flow rate is set with an empty cylinder. ie no filter product inserted. Now your comments make complete sense. Regards

[@iancampbell3675]

@@anthonydonnelly4069 seems like you have it well sorted . Go for it

[@TheWalk23]

Tidal 55 or Fluval 207 ? Your recommendation !

[@knightstemplar1142]

Can I still place the green phosphate pad in there and where or what level tray should it go into ?

[@ThousandYardStare]

(my other channel) as that's a chemical pad it should be the last thing water hits before leaving the filter - on top of the top tray.

[@melinefarrell9455]

Would a good option be the quartz bio balls (u-media) for the two

[@Grimreapervlogs]

Hi mate hope you can answer this question. I have a 207 and my issue is with the media basket with the lid on it makes a loud noise when the fillter is running. If i remove the media basket lid and switch it back on the noise is gone. Do you see any problems with me not using the lid ?? Is it really needed mate. Hope you can help

[@wowdad3055]

Hello Richard can you tell me how much media Biohome i will need for a Fluval 306 for the two trays.

[@pansepot1490]

Did you check if the info is in his website? A couple of videos ago Richard has warned his viewers that he can’t answer the questions in the comments anymore. Too busy, too many videos, too little time.

[@themanfromatlantis6244]

2kg

[@wowdad3055]

@@themanfromatlantis6244 Thank you.

[@coreygunter4787]

How long ago has it been since you pimped a Marineland 220/360/530 canister filter? Id like to see you do one of these.. thanks in advance..

[@IsabellaM._]

Yes,I have a Marineland on my 25 gallon. It barely came with media.

[@seanbillingham4887]

Hi I am coming back to tropical fish after years away i am thinking of a 60 ltre tall (Dennerle) tank with good filtration and good lights for plants. Should i use the 107 or 207 fluval filter or go for an Eheim Ecco Pro 130, Both seem to be good according to your videos. Many thanks for your reviews they are much appreciated, Sean

[@leeporter6849]

I have a fluval hexa 60litre 2ft tall tank ,I also have this filter .I filled mine with bio gravel and like the video says it does slow the flow rate so I switched to biohome mini .You may want the 307 if you are placing your tank on a high table as the pump head hight in the 207 isn't great

[@michaeljennison885]

How often should you change the biotope ultimate media.

[@allfunkedup158]

My man can I or anyone else run two canisters in series I've 2 one in the shed unused and was thing of getting the allpondsolutions pre filter canister thing but could I just link the two of the canisters together and get same effect or am I barking up the wrong tree

[@anonymouslyanonymous6931]

Dude fluval stole your ideas about the 6 series with the blue bio Foam! I hope you got a tip!

[@SmartGadgetShow]

Yes i agree, I'm surprised he never mentioned that.

[@1kramm]

I have a 207, I ordered 1kg of biohome ultimate and followed the setup as per the video but I couldn't get 1kg of media into the filter. I got about 7-800g at most into the filter. Still better than before but don't see why I can't get 1kg in but looks almost effortless in the video lol. Any idea what it could be? Is there a specific way to lay it in the trays? Not sure if it is just that I got more than a kilo of media for the price of 1kg

[@hakman239]

I just set mine up you need to stack it neatly first lay stack it vertically then 2 layers horizontally that way you get 1kg in perfectly and still tiny bit of space

[@marcelosantos-nf2jw]

Ola. For 370 discus tank. for a minimalist tank with 6 discus and some neos, with a clear bottom, and trunks with some plants, what else would you recommend: a FX6 or 2x 407 from fluval? Very Tks for your videos.

[@kheiyokepang8030]

How to replace the prime assembly for this 07 series. Please advice. Thank you.

[@keithyify]

Hello mate I have your BIOHOME PLUS can you tell me if it ok for a tank with a lot of plants if not what would you recommend thanks

[@davidhills3838]

I am thinking of getting an 07 filter but unsure of size. I have a 200litre tank. I use biohome as media. I keep small American chichlids and odd tetra etc etc and have a planted tank. Can you please advise best model.

[@stuartcross749]

Hi Richard Sean the video about pimping a fluval 207 fillter I have a 125 litter tank with fancy gold fish wood this setup be OK for me thanks

[@ThousandYardStare]

(my other channel) As the recommendation fr goldfish is 2kg of media per 100 litres and the 207 will only hold 1kg in the top 2 trays I'd say you're about half what you need to be at to achieve a full cycle on a 125 litre goldfish tank allowing for structure and substrate. Instead of buying another Bigger) filter you could save money by installing an APS booster filter (2.3 ltre) and add it on the outlet of the 207 - that would give you at least an extra 1.5kg of Bohome Ultimate in there and when added to the 1kg in the top 2 trays of the 207 it will be good for the size of tank and stock.

[@stuartcross749]

Hi Richard thanks for getting back to me do u have a video on pimping a aps fillter thanks

[@pondguru]

@@stuartcross749 There are quite a few from APS - canisters, HOB filters. Just search 'All Pond Solutions Pimp My Filter' and they will come up. Failing that just click the playlist on my channel and scroll through the list of videos.

[@stuartcross749]

Hi m8 can't find anything on customised aps fillter could u tell me how to set it up with the media thanks again much appreciated

[@ThousandYardStare]

@@stuartcross749 Which model of filter?

[@phirrup1]

I have an established tropical aquarium. My tank size is 240 litre and I have an old Eheim external filter which needs replacing. What is involved in a complete filter change?

[@charliew1098]

Got a second hand Jewel 180 vision 3 months ago, only have an Ocean Free Hydra 30 internal and want to upgrade,trying to learn it all after not having one for 30yrs,would the 207 be adequate? was going to get one with your Freshwater 1kg External Filter Upgrade Kits for it. Also been reading about problems with them leaking from a poor seal at the top or in general? or would you recommend a different more than this one?may be the Oase BioMaster Thermo 350? Thank you for some great videos.

[@madhatterjones4781]

Just a question.. I have this filter.. Would you put the fine filter pad in the bottom cartridge so it clear water going through the media? Or put the fine pad above the media?

[@Luke-gf7bv]

Does anyone know if it's ok not to have the Media Basket Cover on the top of the media? When I had mine it made a very loud noise so I'm assuming against the propeller.

[@stelioiacovou1110]

i got a fluval 207 can i have like one tray with biogravel and one tray with ceramic rings

[@darrenmurray6128]

so i have a 200 ltr planted aquarium no fish or shrimps etc and i have just had my filter fail cracked case and leaking so i ordered a fluval 207 to replace it i also ordered 1kg biohome from your site to replace the media it comes with if i use both trays full of biohome will this be enough when i come to add fish as i mainly aquascape i will only be adding about 10 neon tetras and 10 armano shrimp and maybe a single fighter will this be enough filtration or should i add a booster filter and replace the mechanical tray in the 207 to more biohome ?

[@leeporter6849]

This will be enough for light stocking of the tank as you mentioned .do note tho when full of bio gravel the flow rate will reduce

[@jandomingo9806]

Will a 107 be enough for a 90cmx21cmx24cm tank? I assume its plenty

[@pondguru]

That works out at around 45 litres so will be less once substrate and decor is considered. Since the 107 will hold around 500g of media in the top tray that will be fine for a normally stocked tank up to 50 litres.

[@jandomingo9806]

@pondguru thank u. Was planning using both trays with bio media and just do with the course and medium pad on the side as the mechanical. That should work just as good.

[@jandomingo9806]

What about 207 better? Im deciding betweeb sicce whale 200 or fluval 207. I had whale before and i liked how quiet it was and easy to clean but obviously it doesnt have the prefilter like fluval. Which would u choose? Or is 700-780lph overkill for a 45l 90cm tank?

[@pondguru]

If you have a normally stocked tank then the 107 is easily big enough for a 45 litre tank. However, if you're planning to upgrade to a larger tank at a later date going for the 207 would be a sensible choice as it could be used on the new tank if it was up to 100 litres (normal stock). Hope that makes sense.

[@jandomingo9806]

@pondguru thanks for that. I actually have another shallow 70l 90cmx27cmx28cm running a biomaster 250 thermo. And a 180l 90cm running a 350 biomaster thermo. Im just after a slightly smaller filter for the 45l. I was looking into the filtosmart because of the heater part but theres no prefilter and i have researched that theres exactly identical to eden canisters and zoomed which r cheaper. But decided with the fluval as it has a prefilter, i guess i may just use an inline heater or no heater at all.