Pimp My Filter #13 - Aqua One Aquis 1250 Canister Filter

Foams and Biohome Ultimate: Foams and Biohome Ultimate: filterpro.co.uk/
(FilterPro site has links to suppliers in other countries)
Aqua One Aquis 1250 Filter (Amazon): geni.us/P7ZC4
Aqua One Aquis 1250 Filter (Ebay): ebay.to/2K55uVq
THIS IS A REALLY GOOD FILTER!
We used to get these filters in when I owned my aquarium store and it was great to have one sent for this series as it reminded me how a simple design, good quality construction and a keen purchase price combine to make one really great filter.
When you're watching the video you will hopefully get an impression of how much I like this filter so it's one I would definitely recommend.
Thanks for watching, liking and sharing.
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
Check out my channel for hundreds of videos on a wide range of my hobbies - many of the videos have educational content so if you have enjoyed any give them the thumbs up and share.
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 PRODUCTS ON AMAZON: goo.gl/jMaBWy
INSTAGRAM: / pondguru_outdoors
FILMING EQUIPMENT:
Panasonic HC-VX870 HD camcorder geni.us/3UwE
+Rode stereo microphone: geni.us/4OL
+Rode 'deadcat' mic cover: geni.us/1pmn
JVC Everio quad proof HD camcorder: geni.us/e09e
+Rode 'deadcat' mic cover (opened up and held between tripod and camera base) geni.us/dee24
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

[@yardbomber9099]

Hi Richard! I know I'm late to this party, but again because of the way you setup/pimp out these filters, it's now the only method I set mine up. I'm currently using a SunSun 304B on my 75 gallon Cichlid tank and I set it up exactly as you suggested. I also have an Eheim Pro 4+ 250 which I will add to my 75 gallon as it's a bit overstocked and again will set it up just like this. The perfect template to set any canister filter for maximum efficiency and best performance. Thanks!

[@jonathoncobb1982]

Finally ordered one of these filters also got the 3 stage foam and 4kg of biohome ultimate and pre filter for my 200ltr tank Can't wait to get it set up now Thanks for your videos helped me loads

[@alimilq]

I'm watching these and realizing this is probably saving fishies from not so great living conditions.

[@Afeeq1011]

What I like about this videos is I can watch all these filter designs be it unique like fluvals or standard trays like.

[@paulkelly9092]

I have this filter and will be setting it up with the items and way you have shown. Thank you for your time and help

[@stujd1539]

I have the earlier 1200 model and do the same except with plastic bio balls in the bottom and I still use the very coarse filter pad as well. Works a treat. Last time I cleaned it I got a bonus, 6 Bristlenose fry about 10mm in size happily surviving in the bottom. Must have been a shock to see the light of day for the first time though.

[@pondguru]

Nice one - always good to get a fishkeeping bonus like that.

[@salvadorvelasquez8204]

Oh my that's an excellent idea of the way the filter should be working 😎, so awesome video Mr. PondGuru 👍

[@pondguru]

No worries, glad you found the video useful.

[@esotericman22]

Good video as usual. Thanks Richard. Happy filtering 😉

[@MarkusBurrer]

I have an Eheim experience 150. There is also a lot of space below the trays. I filled it with ceramic rings. Works great so far

[@simplifygardening]

A great looking filter. Seems really good quality and plenty of space in there for media

[@pondguru]

Really good quality construction, yes which is great to see considering how feeble some of the fittings are on some of the filters I've looked at for this series.

[@dennisfrankland4296]

Hello pond guru, just watched your Awesome video , yesterday I purchased this very aqua one 1250 external filter fir my 400 foot African cichlid tank. Hoping to get it set up and running over this weekend. Thanks a lot for your recommendation on this filter. Being a Georgie myself just like you, I was able to understand every word you said. Some people who talk about filters in their videos don’t talk properly, like queens English if you get my drift my friend. I have watched a lot of your videos in the pass before the dreaded Covid arrived. Your a great resource of fantastic reliable information as you have a vast about of experience about the fish keeping hobby. Thanks again , take care and best wishes from Dennis, ex Army veteran

[@mrquiff123]

Thanks , I’m going to upgrade my ocellaris 850 to this one, but I think you should start designing and manufacturing your own filter. Ever thought about it

[@waikarimoana]

Great looking filter mate, thanks for it and best regards.

[@eyadjamus7126]

I have this filter and I am going to soup it up the same way you have. Thanks for the tip.

[@brianzambotti4510]

Could watch your videos all day

[@johnfloydman7735]

Great looking filter. Very impressive...

[@Hornbyttgingernerd]

Very nice again Richard 👍🏻👍🏻

[@justinrvarga7236]

That was a great video. I’m going to get an aqua one. I was never a huge fan but with the design I can now see the consumer friendliness and flexibility. I have the sunsun which aquaone make as well. I’m gonna add marine pure and polyfilter. Filters like the fx6 make you buy there sponges etc which is very anti consumerist.

[@pondguru]

The Aquis 1250 is a n excellent filter and with regard to the FX6 part 10 of the Pimp my Filter series is about the FX6 and I use pond foams for the outer foams which are a fraction of the cost - I run down the cost of official foams , compatible foams and the pond foams and their benefits over the single coarse foam usually used in the FX filters.

[@brendanxuereb8478]

Hi Richard, Just saw this video, very good btw. I agree with your setup order. I’m based in Australia and the manual has the bottom 2 trays filled with media (each with a course sponge on top) and the top tray with a course pad on the bottom and fine pad on the top. It means that my media is constantly full of crap. Much prefer your setup with pads on the bottom, makes absolute sense. Thanks!

[@EmilyRose-sc5qu]

The red looking ceramic he used, what would we use in Australia?

[@ianrawlings2546]

Yeah, that's why I searched KZbin for a video on setting up this filter. The manual has the bio filtration backwards.

[@AbdulMateen.]

Great advice on filters as always

[@darksideparanormal1431]

i have just purchased 2 for my 275lt tank for discus so will do the job perfectly

[@vaughanoneill8]

Even though you get almost 4kg of media in the upper 2 trays, surely you have to include the additional 2kg in the settlement chamber at the bottom of the canister? Despite it being a settlement area for for the heavier detritus, bacteria will almost certainly still colonise in it. So, in effect, this holds 6kg of biological media, which makes the filter even more capable imo.

[@anthonyelsenburg4353]

You can also add a external prefilter and eliminate the use of any foam at all in the canister

[@CaptainNemo49]

I wish a lot of these filters you have pimped were available in the US....... but, I still enjoy learning how to pimp them out. Thanks for the vids, keep them coming, maybe a little more often ha ha ha

[@pondguru]

The Fluvals and Eheims are available in US and I have plenty of those shot and waiting to be edited. I'll do another one specifically on the All Pond Solutions 2000 lph filter which has a SunSun equivalent too.

[@awoodward37]

I use crushed coral at the bottom of my Aquis canister filters. Dimple foam is a waste of space, it's the volume of the foam that catches the waste, it's not the surface area. And the dimples get pushed flat, creating just areas of different densities. Instead of using rubber rings to help direct the water down through the trays, I installed a plastic tube from the inlet at the bottom of the canister's head that passes down through all the trays to the lowest tray. This might reduce the diameter of the water flow to the lowest tray but the trays can't have any issues with the alignment of the trays. I always put the bio filter glass balls above the foam filter pads to reduce the balls from getting clogged with waste. The white polish pads in the top to help protect the impeller from being damaged. I usually use two trays to hold the foams which allow a number of months to pass before requiring a clean out. my tanks are not very big. 50lt for the 1050 and 210lt for the 1250. Love the same sized foam pads. Very easy to buy for both filters. Look for generic foam pads on eBay. Much cheaper than the Aquis brand.

[@pondguru]

Nice one - thanks for the report. There is definitely no right or wrong way to set up any filter so if your set up is working for your situation then it's all good - best of luck with the tank.

[@pamelajoylloydwilliams5961]

Learning such a lot from your videos thanks

[@Raynewyn]

I have one of these but it's a 700. I moved it's noodles and balls to the bottom as settlement and also set up the trays like you said. My trays are crammed full of Marine Pure and SeaChem Matrix since BioHome is really hard to get where I live in Australia. It's hooked into a 150 Litre tank with a Bristlenose and seven Comet Goldfish. It's also being supported by an Aqua One 104F internal that was fully cycled and in an 80L - good filter but had to be heavily modified and "pimped" to get it working nicely. Moves a lot of water but gets mucky really quick and has to be cleaned every week with my water changes. I might make a video about it one day.

[@pondguru]

All sounds good to me and the Aquis filters are definitely decent filters, especially when well set up.

[@inquisitivealbertan1712]

Great video. Thanks so much for posting. Subscribed.

[@johncataldo3174]

I have one of these filters servicing a 250Ltr so far so good, i have used this video to set it up. Only diffence i have a medium course mat on top of each bio tray. Aud $450.

[@neilsmith4903]

Very nice filter if i need to change filters i will consider this 1. Great video to bud

[@pondguru]

Yes there are some decent filters cropping up in this series which is great as it is all about getting useful information out there to people who are looking for details about specific filters.

[@Foodieculturetv]

Thank you sir, I'll use this set for my new reef tank.

[@lindahenderson840]

Great as usual you know your filters

[@lukeperry19]

Love your videos. I have just ordered from your site to upgrade the biorbs flow, can’t wait for it to arrive and set it up. I also have the aqua one ocellaris 850 that came with my 250l would love to see how you can improve that.

[@LotteBubbles1995]

I'm looking at these to bump up my Aqua One Ocellaris 1400(UVC) and my second hand Protege 1400(basically the cheap eBay guys) Thanks heaps for these videos

[@bigs9030]

I absolutely enjoy your videos!! This brand still isn't available in the US unfortunately. I can't wait to get my hands on one :).

[@RMc-fh5tv]

Thanks Richard I am well informed. Richard how do I take out and clean tubs attached to the bottom of my tank with my fish still in it .I have a 4ft fluval tank

[@jc49fishniner4lif7]

Awesome info thanks for sharing

[@1breematt]

Another great post mate. Think those star shaped noodles are made by Aqua One and the best they offer. They work great for the price

[@pondguru]

Yes I think you're right there - I prefer the round ones for bacteria support as the internal structure is better but after saying that they still have THAT DAMN HOLE in the middle which prevent them supporting anaerobic bacteria.....aaarrgghhhh..

[@dnaboi]

Hi, I’m interested to learn how the biohome will affect my aquaponic system, will the biohome’s efficiency in decreasing the nitrates stunt the growth of the plants due to lack of plant food? Thank you.

[@mediscusnut7994]

I would recommend this filter all day long. Considered lower league. It's quiet, holds loads of media and cost far less than a so called top brand filter. Don't pay for the Badge! !!!. I bought two for £220 all in delivered . Both on my 300 ltrs tank. Great video Richard.

[@ThousandYardStare]

(my other channel) I agree 100% - I recommend this filter almost daily to people phoning up for advice. This is how filters should be made - no nonsense just something which will do the job well and last for years.

[@mediscusnut7994]

Definitely worth a look to anyone on a budget these days ,with the present cost of living etc. To a newbie just starting out in the hobby or the experienced.

[@ThousandYardStare]

@@mediscusnut7994 Sadly most people base their 'decisions' on whatever some paid-for clown online says and when big money is thrown around it's no wonder the end user makes bad decisions.

[@MrLincoln87]

as there is more media in the filter, there would be higher resistance to the flow of water, therefor flow rate would have dropped right? Or is that flow negated by the amount of extra media now in the filter?

[@7dalglish75]

Hi Richard, am quite impressed with this filter from your review. If you used the small APS booster filter for your foams as you showed in the 35 minute video you did on sizing filters, would the setup work with this filter and what would you do with the big gap at the bottom? If all of the mechanical filtration is done in the booster filter, could you pack the space with more Biohome or would it impede flow too much?

[@stuartrobinson2983]

Great pimp video. Just wondering, does putting the rings in the bottom make it a little awkward for cleaning?

[@jonathoncobb1982]

I just upgraded to this filter wanted to ask when the full cycle is working does it make the filter churn up air is co2 because mine is doing it just wanted to make sure it's normal thanks

[@TeddyBear651946]

Great Job!

[@clogsism]

Have been running the Eheim Classic 600 ($A300) alongside the Aqua One 1250 ($A50 2nd hand). for a few months now. Both provide excellent filtration but I think overall, the Eheim is the more efficient filter using less media and lower flow rate (1000l/hr compared to the AquaOne est. 1250l/hr). The Eheim Classic comprises the usual elegant Eheim design. Components are high quality, well engineered, work and fit together properly. I use the classic primarily for mechanical filtration in a heavily planted aquarium (i.e. using the sponges provided). It is relatively easy to clean (no trays) but with no handle, can be difficult to manoeuvre when full. Not having trays, while maximizing efficiency, means installing or handling loose bio-media is a little more involved (need mesh bags).The Aqua One lacks the precision of the Eheim but still does a good job due to it's higher flow rate and capacity for filter/bio-media. It has recesses for lifting which are functional only when the lid is in situ and fastened down. Priming can be tricky and the priming valve itself, I found to be utterly useless. Care must also be taken in lining up the flow valves so that when tightening them, you don't wreck the thread. In addition, the trays (x3) must be arranged in the correct order and even then, it can be difficult getting them to fit snuggly together. I have noticed considerable by-pass between the trays despite them being fitted together. Having said that, filter/bio-media are easily customisable, easily installed and managed as per the video. In summary, what the AquaOne lacks in elegance and precision is made up by it's shear grunt (relatively high flow rate media capacity). As to the longevity of each of the filters, Eheim has a reputation for going the distance. Spare parts for both are easily sourced but Eheim are typically much more expensive. As always, it comes down to having the right filtration (flow+types of media) for your particular set up.

[@robertsonkira69]

The pump just went on my cheap canister filter. I ordered this exact model to replace it with.

[@alexm7804]

Hi FilterPro, i was just curious with what your doing to the canister I recently bought the Aqua One Nautilus 2700, now can i do the same thing what you have done to this particular canister

[@mrquiff123]

I’ve upgraded and it’s very good , I’ve set up the same way with 2kg of biohome media, . I think I can get another 1kg of media in

[@randy1817]

Id like to see a vid on the Aquael Unimax 500 canister filter.

[@pondguru]

Foams and Biohome Ultimate: Foams and Biohome Ultimate: filterpro.co.uk/ (FilterPro site has links to suppliers in other countries) Aqua One Aquis 1250 Filter (Amazon): geni.us/P7ZC4 Aqua One Aquis 1250 Filter (Ebay): ebay.to/2K55uVq THIS IS A REALLY GOOD FILTER! We used to get these filters in when I owned my aquarium store and it was great to have one sent for this series as it reminded me how a simple design, good quality construction and a keen purchase price combine to make one really great filter. When you're watching the video you will hopefully get an impression of how much I like this filter so it's one I would definitely recommend. Thanks for watching, liking and sharing. 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 Check out my channel for hundreds of videos on a wide range of my hobbies - many of the videos have educational content so if you have enjoyed any give them the thumbs up and share. 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 PRODUCTS ON AMAZON: goo.gl/jMaBWy INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/pondguru_outdoors/ FILMING EQUIPMENT: Panasonic HC-VX870 HD camcorder geni.us/3UwE +Rode stereo microphone: geni.us/4OL +Rode 'deadcat' mic cover: geni.us/1pmn JVC Everio quad proof HD camcorder: geni.us/e09e +Rode 'deadcat' mic cover (opened up and held between tripod and camera base) geni.us/dee24 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

[@fisharefriends598]

I’ve always liked aqua one.. it’s slightly more pricey then my fluval 206

[@wobblysauce]

That is the same as the one I am using. Aqua Nova Filter NCF1000 2 trays, 1200/1500+ 3 trays.

[@pondguru]

Yes but the 206 holds around 1kg of media (assuming that you use the bottom tray for foams and fine pad) and the 1250 holds around 4kg of media so the two really aren't comparable. It is a very well made filter, especially compared to the more 'modern' filters available where the plastic seems really brittle....I'm looking at you eheim pro4 series...

[@mannyroias3392]

Great video thanks for sharing your knowledge with us beginners lol

[@pondguru]

No worries, it's all about just getting information out there which might be useful. I know some of the videos are very specific but they are on topics which are often very hard to find anything useful on when searching online.

[@mrgogetit9389]

Can u do a video on the cascade casniter filter

[@tamiquefrew6652]

Have you done a pimp my filter and review on the Aqua One Nautilus 1100? I can't find it if you have.

[@SGW4K]

I got an extra kg of media in mine. Still happy with that. 😊 Cheers. Instructions say bio media in bottom two baskets and mechanical filtration in top basket. Is that right?

[@AquaNoxLTD]

It's a good sized filter high flow I just don't like how the lid looks I'm fussy me lol but I bet it'll keep a tank well clean and I like the big trays and that huge spare for all them mech rings

[@Talis1717]

So I bought a second hand one of these, came with the bio media and filter pads (used) and the guy told us to leave all the media in and run it on our tank to cycle the aquarium (since the canister already had the beneficial bacteria) but what I am concerned about is by running the filter with his media could it transfer any disease his fish might have had to my aquarium? Keep in mind the canister was pretty rancid in smell and internally.

[@ICasinI]

Looking at replacing an ocellaris 850 with this one and splicing on a UV can above it. Should make for a decent system.

[@markd7013]

i currently have two of these on a 600 liter tank. however, with all my wood and gravel the water volume is probably more like 500 litres. do you think that just one of these filters + 2 sponge filters would be sufficient for my tank? its not heavily stocked, no plants either. So I'm wondering if i perhaps could reduce down to 1? what do you reckon folks?

[@Kendo121e]

can you use this for a pond?

[@Sotdot3]

I had no idea you were back making aquarium videos. You should connect with aquarium co op to spread your channel. Your channel has many great aquarium information/tips! Can you do one on swiss tropicals hamburg mattenfilter? Maybe a comparison/pimping video?

[@denisk2414]

I have one of these on my 200l (50gal) malawi tank and it seems to "work" well in terms of the nitrogen cycle however I recently measured the real flow in lph and it was only 600 lph (1 min to fill a 10l bucket) I have mine crammed full of media just like you but I am wondering if this is what is killing the "flow" - and this test was done after the monthly canister clean and with NO floss installed, just a very coarse foam (the blue one) and growstones/noodles/matrix and a pantyhose filled with purigen. I also vaccum my substrate (well one corner of the tank that has a dead spot where all the fish poop accumulates) twice daily using a battery powered eheim quickvac (just removes the poop, not water) because my fish ..poo a lot (feeding them 2-3x a day as they're mostly juveniles) I'm tempted to get the sunsun 304B (rated 2000lph) and I'd be happy if it could do 1000lph (ie. 5x the turnover of my tank). Am I worrying about the flow for no reason, does the flow even matter? I do have a 700lph powerhead as well which creates a lot of surface agitation but obviously it does nothing for the filtration (other than introduce O2 I guess) One thing I have noticed with this aquis 1250 is that the media basket o-rings/seals do NOT line up correctly when the baskets are put into place ie. looking down the tube with a torch I can see that is NOT close to being a straight round pipe, the baskets never seem to line up perfectly no matter how much I try to jiggle them ..I wonder if this is what is killing the flow??

[@CrazyAquariumGuy]

I have heard alot about leaking problems with this one. BUT, they have a new version now. Do you know if it any better? Because if it is safe, it is a lot of filter for the money. I live in Sweden, it is 100% more space for media, but cost 150% less then the Eheim Proffessionel 4+ 600.

[@XiXmomoXiX]

Hey mate, love your vids! I got a Aqua one Nautilus 1400. Pretty much exactly same setup but apparently more flow. I used your video and stocked my media up as U did but the flow has dropped. Now will this affect the end result for my tank 50G/180L tank? I'm pretty impressed with how much media I can fit in this but worried now the slower flow rate is going to affect the bio growth and nitrification? Thanks again Anyone else can chime in. Any info would be great.

[@kjetilmedhus7363]

This filter seems almost identical to my JBL CristalProfi 500, which I belive you have pimped before. Does that ring any bells?

[@MrFrosty888]

I am looking at this after I had two fluval filters which I now can’t look at them ever Again. Wonder if this filter you reviewed would handle an 450 ltr tanks. 4ft x2ft x2ft two fish that are 35cm.

[@cheenaxe]

ok Richard heres some info, all of that media is aqua one .. the ceramic rings are the cheapest . the flower shaped rings are the advanced rings with more surface area and their top of the line media is what you are calling grow stones and no they dont affect ph

[@andy2798100]

Great review Richard. Just wandering mate will a video of my filters be up soon No rush just curious and excited haha Cheers man :) Andrew I’m using the tunze filter which is great, however the eheim was a bit hard to take apart and I ended up dropping Biogravel all over the floor so I’ve decided to get an aqua one occelaris 850 external filter next week so I might send it up to you.

[@pondguru]

Bloody hell, taking liberties there, lol Sure I'll take a look at that one as I haven't done one of those as far as I can remember. I haven't edited your vids yet but I'll get onto it - may even do one next as I like to do one or two canisters followed by an internal if I can. Yes, the Eheim held a decent amount of media but it was a bit of a task getting the sections apart smoothly.

[@ZaNeRHuNtEr87]

I love the good advice and how to setup canister the right way also pond filters after watching your videos i did mine wrong for 15 years Maybe you can do a review about the Oase Biomaster 250/350/600 it comes with a pre filter so like to know the best way for setting that one

[@pondguru]

They are nicely designed filters and it would be good to have one for filming purposes. The pre-filter would just be left as it is (using the coarse sponges) then bottom tray would have foams and fine pad followed by media in each tray above that. Each tray will hold around 1kg of biohome ultimate judging by what I saw at a recent trade show when I took one apart.

[@mollyeverglade3655]

I feel the same way about my two rebranded SunSun canisters - both were very affordable (~$100 AU) and have a tonne of room for media. I haven't got any BioHome yet (saving up, honestly) but I reckon I could get quite a few KG in there. One has four trays, one has three. Not sure the plastic is of the highest quality, but I think its great for what you pay.

[@pondguru]

If it is the same range we have over here (sold as All Pond Solutions) the SunSun filters hold the following amounts of biohome ultimate: 1000 lph = 1kg per tray 1400 lph = 1.5kg per tray 2000 lph = 1.7kg per tray All have water flowing from bottom to top through the trays so the bottom tray would be used for the foams and fine pad leaving the remaining trays for media.

[@mollyeverglade3655]

Yup, that's the same! Thanks!

[@M3GAOfficial]

Can I use this filter on a 176 litre tank or it kills the fish because it has high water pumping capacity?

[@lgtvsmart4078]

There is a reason for space in the bottom, i had few cichild babies sucked up and ended in bottom space. They lived happily there for quite long time. Good thing its semi transparent i was able to see babies and remove. This is safest filter for babies.

[@pondguru]

I think the idea behind the space a the bottom is for heavy muck to fall to the bottom and save the bottom foam from getting clogged so quickly. However, it helps to have decent sized ceramic rings in that void to catch the muck way better than an empty space. If you're having problems with fish ending up in the filter then a coarse foam over the intake pipe will sort that no worries and it will lessen the maintenance on the main filter too.

[@lgtvsmart4078]

@@pondguru Agree, Another thing with aquaone is the filteration order they come with, on the bottom basket they have bio with corase sponge on top. Then ceramic /bio with medium sponge and finally blacksponge and white sponge. Is this correct order. Also i went to API website their filter media recommendation is mech , chemical and biological order

[@pondguru]

@@lgtvsmart4078 In any water / sewage treatment plant the order is always mechanical, biological then chemical and any aquarium filter is basically a smaller version of a water / sewage treatment plant. How manufacturers continually make an arse of the set up baffles me.

[@richardportelli1983]

Another great video Richard! Can you tell me about the foam you use like the ppi?

[@pondguru]

In the UK we tend not to bother much with the PPI rating of a foam as they're just known as 'coarse, medium or fine' but at a guess I'd say the coarse was maybe 10ppi - 15ppi and the medium was 30ppi - 40ppi

[@RickGrimes-mk6ts]

Will the space at the bottom be same with a Aqua One Aquis 1200 Canister filter?

[@stevesaquatics165]

Any chance you could do a pimp my filter for the most popular hang on the back filter called the AquaClear 110?

[@pondguru]

If someone sends one then yes I'll do it - we do have those in the UK but HOB are not very popular in UK

[@stevesaquatics165]

@@pondguru I would send one to you but sadly you live across the pond.😕

[@pondguru]

That's no worries, I'm sure someone here will send one sooner or later as they are definitely available here in the UK.

[@barrygill2213]

Mr filter you know your stuff love watching.......quick question how's the pond going not seen any new vids yet 👍👍

[@pondguru]

I'm on building the big filter for it so will shoot an update when I get all the parts pulled together and most of the containers linked up - there is a nation of fittings I still need as it is a monster.

[@barrygill2213]

Pondguru looking forward to seeing it

[@dawndixon1585]

Richard i can't get this off for the love of money it's well stuck..i'm frightened in case i brake it...its going to go out the window before long lol

[@lukegoodridge-reynolds7920]

Great video I’ve just been given one for free where can I got all the stuff you used to build this

[@marlisroth4269]

Hi, is it also possible to pimp a JBL 401e ? Since I have one so it would be good to know how you would improve it ... Greeting Axel

[@pondguru]

I'd imagine it would be the same as the 901 I did a while back in this series but I'll do any filter I get sent as long as it is a model I haven't done before no worries.

[@Wellesly]

That means 1kg per 100 litres ? Also 4 times size of tank so for 100 litres x 4 + 400 litres/hr filter capacity??

[@philipwatts9033]

Good filter I have one but it’s a really poor flow rate . Considering a fx4 to get more turnover

[@philipherbert9298]

Hi thanks for this you tube video. I just got this filter (pre owned), I followed you instructions to the letter. Works so well, Thank you.

[@aquaticsandfurries8718]

Wow, so unusual to under rate them and thats half the price of the fx4!!! But the flow rate isnt as high... still seems well worth it the price

[@pondguru]

Yes I was very taken with this filter and the large settlement area in the bottom is a real bonus. What a shame to waste all that space.

[@AndytheMinion]

Another nice filter in the series. I remember when you started the pimping process you were also impressed with the All pond solutions EF2000 Having seen this one and given the build quality comment would you recommend a EF2000 or the Aquis 1250?

[@pondguru]

That's a difficult one as the EF2000 holds 5kg of media but isn't as well made as the Aquis 1250 which holds 4kg of media. Ultimately the choice wold come down to how much media you needed to achieve a full cycle in any given situation. For example a 400 litre normally stocked tank would be fine with either filter but a 500 litre tank would be better off with the FX6 as it holds 5kg and the 1250 only holds 4kg (you'd generally use 1kg of biohome ultimate per 100 litres for a normally stocked tank to achieve a full cycle)

[@deepteek7439]

This looks a lot better and more effective than the fluval FX4 if set up as it has in this video,,,,,,and a lot cheaper too. Wish i saw this before i bought my FX6

[@ChrisHardwickanimaladventures]

I can't find this filter for sale anywhere, your amazon and eBay links don't work...

[@nanyabusinesss]

Thanks for another great video. Do you have a video upgrading a aqua one ocellaris 850?

[@pondguru]

Not yet, but I'm sure one day someone will send one for upgrade.

[@nanyabusinesss]

Thanks Richard

[@matk22]

What's the difference between this and the 1050

[@J1a9m8e3ss]

Hey Richard great videos, I recently got a fluval m90 tank which has the built in sump, I've made some media baskets for it just would like some advice on what order to fill it up and what with I do have some ceramic rings and some lava rock already. Any advice would be most appreciated. Cheers

[@Tom_Prendiville]

J1a9m8e3ss if you are in the UK you are probably best calling him (Richard) 07772848730 as he can continue working whilst talking to you on the phone, alternatively his email address is the next best thing (it's usually in the description or comments of his videos). Goodluck 👍

[@J1a9m8e3ss]

Thomas Prendiville many thanks 👍🏻👌🏻

[@sondercichlidaquariums4951]

Think I've found my all pond solution alternative lol. I wonder how much the big Aqua one ocellarice 3000u.v holds media wise, you got any ideas? I'm sure these were based on an old eheim model? Looks the exact same, Maidenhead aquatics aquamanta range look the exact same as well

[@davidhills7986]

Fishy Draws I can tell you the 1400 ocellaris is identical nearly the aquis 1250 just slightly more rounded. I have one of each.

[@pondguru]

Many filters are very similar and I'm not familiar with the Aqua One 3000 so can't say for sure how much it holds.

[@1stinkfist]

an honest question here, can you explain how cramming a filter full of bio-media actually benefits the ammonia conversion? BB will only reproduce depending on the bioload available for consumption. i have a 525 liter mixed african cichlid tank with roughly 50 fish, running an fx4 using only about 250 gramms of bio media plus a temporary internal jewel bioflow which i will be replacing with another fx4. i have a large rockscape which will be housing the majority of the BB. i do about 150% water change weekly and my nitrates are never more than 10ppm. im tempted to remove all bio media just to test my theory that in an established tank bio media is not necessary under some circumstances. what are your thoughts?

[@pondguru]

If you're changing 150% of water every week it's hard to argue the need for a well set up filter.

[@jezedwards190]

Richard... Is it safe to replace all the existing media and foams all at once or would that be like starting from scratch again? Cheers

[@pondguru]

In a mature system it is always best to upgrade the filter gradually over a period of 4-6 weeks or more so in a canister that would be one tray every couple of weeks until it is fully swapped over. That way you always maintain good bacteria activity and the old media helps to seed the new media.

[@mattg6226]

How do you feel this canister as you have it setup compares to the fluval fx6 with your pimped out setup? Cost vs effective seeing as this one got 4k of biohome and fx6 only can fit 5k even though it's much larger and definitely more expensive...

[@pondguru]

The FX definitely has more mechanical provision and both filters are very well made - I'd just say go for whatever holds a suitable amount of media for the tank you have as they are both very good filters. If you have particularly demanding fish as far as feeding and waste goes then the FX6 would probably be the best one but for a normally stocked tank either is a great choice.

[@rube814]

How long does it take the BioHome media to start removing nitrates? I’m switching to a API Rena Flistar XP 2 today from a Marineland Emperor bio-wheel filter for my 30 gallon cichlid tank which house a Pleco and 4 one inch cichlids. I bought the API recommend Bio-Chem Star media pack of 20, however after watching almost all of your videos I’m starting to have second thoughts. The Bio-chem Stars packaging makes no mention of nitrate removal. Should I send the Bio-Chem Stars back and just run BioHome exclusively? I’m very interested in your opinion. Thanks in advance!

[@pondguru]

You can mix and match all different types of media as it's all there to support bacteria - problem is that ceramic rings only support aerobic bacteria due to their shape and structure. The biohome generally takes 2-3 weeks for first stage of cycle (aerobic) to cope with ammonia and nitrite but could take 4-6 months to fully mature with anaerobic bacteria (for nitrate reduction). You would need a suitable amount to enable that to occur and there are notes about that and lots of other useful information on the Q&A page of my website www.filterpro.co.uk

[@adrianmathiassen5668]

That filter reminds me very much of JBL cristalprofi 500. Could it be the same filter with another name?

[@pondguru]

Many filters are very similar and some are even manufactured by the same factory and sold under different names (SunSun / All Pond Solutions) so it wouldn't surprise me although I'm not familiar with the JBL 500 so can't say for sure.

[@viti339]

I'm looking for a couple of filters from my 400litre discus tank. These could be a great choice and price.

[@pondguru]

Yes 2 of these set up properly would keep the water perfect and at a sensible price too.

[@AquaNoxLTD]

If they sold this filter but with a better propeller and made the motor more energy frendly then it'll be one of the top canisters these two things is what holds me back from geting one the way its built the size of trays space and price is really good but it uses a lot of electric my pro4 250 might not have the space of this but it moves the same amount of water 630lph but it only uses 12watts the aqua one uses 28watts that's about 14/25pound extra a year in electric it all adds up but if this isn't an issue then go for it n get one

[@gabrielgalaxygh]

Wow can't believe they under rated it, thats awesome... usually it's the the opposite

[@pondguru]

Yes it was a pleasant surprise - they really under-sell this one. Construction quality is way better than most filters out there too including the new eheim pro3 and pro3 range.

[@lindashansen2561]

Thank you Richard.. How is the quality of the motor?

[@pondguru]

We sold them for years when I had the shop and can't remember anybody coming in due to mechanical failure.

[@markneedham2287]

@pondguru which is the current best biohome media for a pond filter and can you link me to your eBay page to buy it please

[@pondguru]

It depends what type of pond filter you have. If it is a pressure filter or traditional box filter that environment will be way too dirty for any good porous media to be operating at high efficiency but for a shower filter it would be either the Biohome Ultra, Biohome Maxi Ultimate or Biohome Shower. It's cheapest on my website www.filterpro.co.uk but feel free to ring me any time on 07772848730 Regards, Richard

[@philipwatts9033]

Morning . I currently have one of these on a 350 I’m going to buy a 6x2x2 Would you just buy another or should I buy a fx6? Just concerned about the Dow rate . Mbuna Aquarium

[@philipwatts9033]

Flow