Pimp My Filter #10 - Fluval FX6 Canister Filter (also covers FX5)

Fluval FX6 Filter: geni.us/EQDjIBP
Fluval FX5 Filter (Ebay): ebay.to/2G2SIIz
Foams and Biohome Ultimate: www.filterpro.co.uk
Full kit to upgrade a Fluval FX6 or FX5 can be found on the 'Filter Kits' page of the FilterPro website: bit.ly/2LuRtl0
(FilterPro site has links to suppliers in other countries)
Flexible light used in video: geni.us/OUJDB
The Fluval FX6 is the friendly monster of the canister filter world and has a powerful pump, excellent mechanical filtration and decent provision for biological filtration.
However, since it 'only' holds around 5kg of biohome ultimate it is really suited to normally stocked tanks of up to 500 litres (132 US gallons) or heavily stocked tanks of up to 250 litres (66 US gallons) if you want to achieve a full cycle.
Note: If your FX6 is a new version it will have extra red trays which fit inside main trays - they are not needed unless you need to use one in bottom tray to separate carbon from filter media without using a mesh bag.
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 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

[@pondguru]

Fluval FX6 Filter: geni.us/EQDjIBP Fluval FX5 Filter (Ebay): ebay.to/2G2SIIz Foams and Biohome Ultimate: www.filterpro.co.uk Full kit to upgrade a Fluval FX6 or FX5 can be found on the 'Filter Kits' page of the FilterPro website: bit.ly/2LuRtl0 (FilterPro site has links to suppliers in other countries) Flexible light used in video: geni.us/OUJDB The Fluval FX6 is the friendly monster of the canister filter world and has a powerful pump, excellent mechanical filtration and decent provision for biological filtration. However, since it 'only' holds around 5kg of biohome ultimate it is really suited to normally stocked tanks of up to 500 litres (132 US gallons) or heavily stocked tanks of up to 250 litres (66 US gallons) if you want to achieve a full cycle. Note: If your FX6 is a new version it will have extra red trays which fit inside main trays - they are not needed unless you need to use one in bottom tray to separate carbon from filter media without using a mesh bag. 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 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

[@joshsancho7931]

This is a thing of beauty. You ever thought about doing a colab with King of DIY?

[@pondguru]

I'm not sure he'd be up for that as we have very different way of doing things but I'm sure in another version of reality it is happening right now, lol

[@Sakura1]

What is the smallest tank I could use a FX6 on (before it causes a swirling effect)? What is the difference between a fx6, fx5 and fx4?

[@pondguru]

FX5 and 6 are practically the same and the FX4 has one less tray. Depending on how the outlet is arranged I'd say maybe a 100 litre tank but even then the current will be quite strong.

[@Sahadi420]

I treat every piece of biohome like it's a baby squirrel. Very careful not to break any of the pieces. You: 10:26 11:16 11:20 11:24 12:20 12:26 I'm still gonna be OCD about it........

[@joshcoates9922]

Mate this video has just saved me £200 I thought I was needing a new filter would have been the fx6 instead I pimped my fx5 and it has worked a treat thankyou

[@deadlyt-virus8751]

So glad i came across your channel you have gave me more understanding how to use my filter more efficiently

[@paulshortland5889]

I have to say this is one of the best videos I have watched on filtration. You really do make good sense of how the nitrogen cycle works.

[@Ramraj07Manutd]

Received my Fluval FX6 Upgrade Kit and changed the sponges and filter media in my Filter. Thanks for the Bio Balls, I’ve also added Tetra Safe Start Plus to my tank, did a 60% Water Change. Thanks a Lot Richard.

[@gebus5633]

This is my filter of choice then, instead of Eheim 4+ 600. Thank you for starting me on this process of finding out a bit more. Based on yours and some other information the choice was pretty easy in the end!

[@fishfullofdollars6549]

Thank you I've been struggling with my fx6 and I'm totally going to use this setup 👌

[@pondguru]

No worries and I'm glad you found the video useful as I just make them to be used for any free information.

[@BIGRATDOGHEAD]

By far the best explanation on filtration I have seen. Very easy for anyone to understand

[@toycarfoushboy]

Just got one of these second hand and went right to your video to figure out how to setup the inside after watching fluval video on how to connect. Keep the great work up m8!

[@raveen2004]

Great video thank you! I have a FX6 (modified as per your video) in my 250L cichlid tank (11 fish). It is also planted (anubias on driftwood). All this time I had fluval BioMax media in the top two trays and chemical filtration in the bottom tray. Never had issues with ammonia & nitrites but had high nitrates & phosphorus constantly hence why I’ve had chemical filtration which included nitrazorb/clearmax/eheim phosphate out etc but since it’s an annoying task to replace these every month, I’ve now made changes. I’ve filled the bottom two trays with Seachem Pond Matrix and the top tray still has fluval BioMax. Ive also put in some pond matrix in two small media bags sitting under the gravel. I’ve also added seachem stability to introduce anaerobic bacteria (and will do for the next 7 days as per instructions). Do you think I can get anaerobic bacteria growing soon with this set up given the FX6 is a very high flow unit? Also with the absence of a phosphate pad/eheim phosphate out, how do I keep it just enough for the plants? Or do I introduce more plants to tackle that? Thanks!

[@timbo2clark823]

Love your posts I have a 800 litre tank with 2 fx6 one just for mechanical and the other packed full of biological works great

[@serious-rc933]

Y doing it too

[@stevetaylor7443]

Been a month since I had this set up all running. Have to say my water readings are spot on. And the water looks like glass most of the time. Have stocked it with roughly 50 small community fish ( mollies guppy tetra dwarf gourami & corydoras ) introduced over 2 weeks. Filter is handling it very well. Water readings back that up.

[@mdanieltech]

Just "Pimped" my FX6 today with this technique... Except I used the Fluval BioMedia. Can't wait to get this going to see the difference. Thank you for the video!

[@CrazyAquariumGuy]

I made the exact same setup before you made this video. Mine was in 2017. 😃👌 Apparently we agree on most filters. About 95% actually. Because I have used over 40 different filters. And I have watched ALL your Pimp my filter videos. 🤝 Strange that not more people understand how and why this is necessary. They instead use just the 1 pound crappy biomedia that fluval sends, and buys another Fx6 to the same tank. And they still have less biological media with 2 as they come in the box, than 1 used like this. So they waste money on 45w extra electricity and they have another one to hide another one to clean and last but not least, more media is a lot cheaper then getting another cannister!!!! Crazy. I tried to help people with these Filters in many videos. But my channel is small, therefore my "nolage" is less. That is how many people think atleast. 😄 The more subs, the better fishkeeper or filters and light expert. Which of course is not the case...

[@NathanPozzobon]

I recieved my filter kit from Richard a few weeks back now. I am doing it in 4 stages as it is going into an already established aquarium. Week 1 I changed all the foams, week 2 I did the biohome in the bottom tray, week 3 the middle and next week the top. I am placing the biohome vertically as opposed to grabbing handfuls so I can fit more in. It takes longer but seems to work more effectively. Already I can see a huge difference in the water clarity and quality. Very happy with my purchase.

[@donniebrazis]

Are you still happy? I’m considering this system for a FX4. Doing it in stages like you show will get the new media time to seed. Thank you

[@NathanPozzobon]

@@donniebrazis Couldn't be happier. Besides regular water changes, the set up is almost maintenance free. The water is clear and free of any ammonia, we used to have the occasional spike when introducing new fish. In a 600L tank this couldn't be better.

[@MARKSAQUATICS]

Nicely packed in there. That's guna work great. That message you sent me earlier about that mouse back in your shop. I went into my workshop to turn off the lights and my cat had left one on my bench for me! Made me chuckle lol.

[@pondguru]

Your cat must have read the message too, lol

[@haroldjankowiak5342]

I have the FX5, so I purchased this kit back in January and set up the filter Feb 1. Four months later I cracked open the filter to clean it and it was extremely clean. All I had to do was squeeze out the foams in tank water, give the trays a quick rinse with the same water and put everything back together. The filter could have gone 6-8 months between cleanings. Talks about a return on investment with my time savings! The 75 gallon tank the FX5 is filtering has 18 Mbuna, mostly of larger size and I'm a chronic overfeeder. The filter floss on the top of the filter was dirty, but not horrible. The flow of my filter was the same as it was when I first installed this kit. I can't say enough good things about this filter upgrade! You have earned a customer for life. .

[@chrisl7228]

Thank you so much for what you do, this has helped me to understand how I need my filtration set up.

[@eisvogel8099]

Gotta love the accent..."it catches all the mookk..there the fohm comes in..."

[@PunDaDVS1]

Thank you. I have been waiting for the FX6 Video. I am currently running 2 FX6s with almost the same set up. Guess I'll be changing out the course pads next clean out for your course/med mix. I have Biohome Ultimate in 1 and I have crushed lava rock in the other. Thanks again for taking the time to do these videos. Keep up the great work.

[@pondguru]

No worries and I'm glad you like the videos - I know the series will never get crazy views since the videos are very specific and niche but it's about building up a base of information people can freely access (there is a woeful percentage of videos on KZbin which have any use at all so I am seeking to improve that situation, lol)

[@w4dey]

Great job, Richard. A really considered and informative pimp-job (and vid) on improving the performance of the FX-6! Cheers.

[@pondguru]

No worries and I'm glad you enjoyed the video.

[@DukeEast]

This is Best FX6 filter setup out there I've ever came across.. Guess it's now time to pimp my FX6 .. 😉 Thanks mate for your Super work ..

[@DamianBloodstone]

I appreciate you doing these vids and telling us the problems. I've watched all of them on filtration. If you had an FX6 and put a pre-filter canister on it for mechanical filtration could you load the FX6 entirely with media then as you talked of before? How much media might it then hold?

[@philhudsonuk]

I bought this setup and it’s the best investment in fish keeping I ever made. Crystal clear water and the best thing it’s healthy! Juwel Trigon 350 & FX6 (5kg Bio Ultimate Upgrade kit)

[@kylebis]

Awesome video! I did something similar with a FX5 & 6. Based off your other videos. This really confirms it. Thank you for such informative advice.

[@pondguru]

Groovy - sounds good to me and I'm glad you enjoyed the video.

[@olivierpelland1027]

I really love my FX6, its a true beast. I just wish they would make a "FX7" with 1-2 more tray so it would hold more biomedia 😉

[@CrazyAquariumGuy]

Yes, what are they waiting for?

[@cswann8]

Man I have to think if you need more than an FX6, it may be better, and cheaper to go with a sump. A lot of people shy away from sumps because of noise....but there are ways to make sumps as quiet as a can.

[@kc03ti]

One alternative is to keep the stock ones and add a layer of filter floss, layering it like this. Has worked well for me

[@Hulltiger_Aquatics]

Love this series of videos 👍 had a fx6 on my old 250ish litre African Cichlid tank few years ago, had it set up similar with biohome ultimate as this, worked great for me. Using the biogravel in my two new tanks (got off your ebay shop) Juwel filter and a AquaNano 30. Great filter media 👍

[@pondguru]

That all sounds awesome to me - groovy.

[@ianbird6997]

Hi mate just like to say your bio kit you sold me years ago is still going strong plants and fish are doing great 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@pondguru]

That's great to hear and I'm pleased that you're happy with it.

[@Star17297]

The tray can be further improve with cat litter and laterite to reduce nitrate. My one had zero nitrates after 3 month.

[@TheGlennchee]

@Horse I have heard of this elsewhere. have you did this with a fx6? I'm curious to know how you configured it, if so. I thought that for the bcb process to work properly you need a very slow filtering process?

[@unogazzy84]

Are you able to try out the flow rate of the FX6 by taking in water from one tank and filling up a different tank? That would be a entertaining video, not to mention the huge amount of useful information.

[@CrazyAquariumGuy]

This way I have tried it. Takes away 60%

[@unogazzy84]

@@CrazyAquariumGuy 60% of what? Efficiency? if so: why and how?

[@CrazyAquariumGuy]

@@unogazzy84 That sponge is too much/too fine. Just do as I do. Keep original sponge on the sides. But pack the middle without dividers. And keep one of their black bumpy sponge up top. Rest Biological .I have several videos on it.

[@AquariumAdventures]

I have an FX5 and think it's a great filter too. Thanks for the video, am sure it will help a lot of people!

[@pondguru]

Yes I can't really see much difference between the FX5 and FX6 - they both hold the same stuff - great filters. BTW I think I got the size of your tank wrong in a previous comment, I was thinking of Nathan from Simply Shrimps as he has a 500 litre tank, lol

[@nickh9294]

Great video! Finally someone Who sets up this beast properly! I've got an fx5 and an fx6 running my 1000 litres aquascape tank. Both of them stand in front of diy co2 reactors of about 10 litres filled with bioballs, wich give me extra biological capacity. Had them for years now. Only once I've had to replace the impeller and bushings of the fx5. These babies are great! Greetings from Holland

[@pondguru]

Having 2 on a 1000 litre tank sounds good to me and it is a mark of their great build quality that all you've needed are a couple of minor parts in years of running. I only had a look online for other videos of an FX5 / FX6 set up after uploading this one and I can see why this video has got off to a good start as there is some really useless 'how to / set up' videos out there, lol I'm loving that I have the opportunity to do this series as it should help people searching for information on their particular filters to cut through the online vlogging nonsense and get to the facts which will help them and most importantly help their fish.

[@labcoat4499]

If you cut the foams into 2 rather than have them same length as the official fluval foams they don't block off some of the fins, the fluval ones have that semicircular cutout so that this is avoided. Also can I ask if you have tried replacing with layers of blue and green foams rather than black and blue as the black ones are really coarse, I think they are probably coarser than the fluval ones so don't offer much trapping of debris. I'm wondering if the green is too fine or not?

[@salreus]

I have been waiting for this since you have started the series and teased on instagram. i already have the bihome but was curious how you were going to set up the foam blocks. What is the total thickness of the foam you have sandwiched together?

[@pondguru]

It is around 1.75" and each foam is around 1.25 by itself but they can join together quite well. You could even use a coarse and medium flat foam but they would need to be thinner since they don't knit together like the bumpy foams do.

[@jimbrown2420]

I'm one of those guy that asked about the fx6 filter. Thank you for making the video. One thing is that the intake has a huge open area for a sponge. I placed one in mine and did it very similar to you except for the upgraded foam pads... I will upgrade it soon.

[@pondguru]

Sounds good - thanks for watching.

[@jean-pierreopperman5387]

So, I took this advice and set up my FX6 exactly the same way except I added some crushed coral to the mix. Well, this was a real magical change as my water went from constantly struggling with mirly/cloudy water to crystal clear water and even my Cichlids are so much more actibe and colourful. Thanks so much for this!! Amazing

[@pondguru]

Nice one - I'm glad it is working well for you. Best of luck with the tank.

[@SeaOfMadness]

Which tray did you put the crushed coral in and how much did you use, if I might ask?

[@rudyantoncich1952]

Great video! Why did you split coarse and medium? I’m thinking 1st tray coarse. 2nd medium. 3rd fine foam. The polishing on top of first center into bio home ultimate. I have no facts behind this. What do you think of my idea? Thank you! Keep the vids coming!

[@Keysersoze30]

I to think that the way pond guru has put the medium and coarse is not efficuent.If you check how the water pass into the tank, putting them orizontally ,seems more logical.... Another way is using a pre-filter outside the can, and fill with media even the foam trays ;)

[@uncreative54]

Just to resurrect a dead comment, the fx6 is designed to spin the water up around the outside edges (the foams on the outside), and them spill it over the top and down the center column. So, the idea is that a course and medium combo allow for both relatively quick water flow. The fine pad at the top then catches whatever muck is left. The idea is to keep water flow going relatively fast.

[@olivierpelland1027]

@@uncreative54 Exactly. I did the same as Richard said + at the top I have a finner foam before the polishing pad and after 2 months my biohome is still really clean.

[@bobsmith2177]

@@uncreative54

[@grandmasterbriggiddy]

Water travels upward through the outer foam chambers and flows over the top into the center media trays, correct? So why not keep the course foam in the bottom tray, medium foam in middle tray, fine foam in top tray and polyfill on top of upper tray media?

[@vissersven]

the water can travel trough the circular foam over the whole height of the filter. the idea is that it travels from outer circle to inner circle, up and back down through the middle circle

[@Anytyme06]

That wouldn't work

[@uncoscott85]

The wate travel’s through the outside straight to the bottom comes up through the coarse filter foam then back through the fine foam then bio and then finally Chem.

[@sargonaudisho7008]

That’s a great idea I think

[@waikarimoana]

Good day Richard, Great video and well presented mate, thanks for it and best regards from all of u all the way from Kiwi land, Down Under.

[@pondguru]

I hope you're well, man - moving into your Winter now? and I bet it's still better than our Summer, lol

[@fishfullofdollars6549]

I tried this out on my fx6 and I'm amazed by the transformation it's made , my water crystal clear and only cost me £12 for the foam .Thanks guru

[@pondguru]

No worries, it is the simple changes which often make the most visible difference so I'm glad you have noticed a benefit.

[@kien86]

Stock this filter comes with the outer foams you showed, two medium pads, and a fine pad. They put the fine pad at the bottom to protect the motor. Are you not worried about protecting your motor from the pellets you used? Aside from that, won’t the water only travel through the course foam and skip the medium foam with your setup? (Well until the course gets saturated and the medium becomes the path of least resistance) Edit - I took apart my filter yesterday and looked at the paths and it does force it to flow sideways through the filters. That said, after going from course to medium don’t you now having it then going from medium to course then course to medium... if it got past the first medium, future course filters wouldn’t have any effect. So shouldn’t you be doing a few course foams and then switching to your medium foams in the middle to top rings?

[@titopowell1156]

Common sense isn't common great incite logically I considered the same thing

[@Methodical2]

I see what you are saying. I placed the Black filter at the bottom of the trays that holds the media to keep any stray stuff from dropping into the motor. I've used this method since I've had the filter (4 years this month) and have never had any problems. I can only assume that since he's using such large media, it's no concern.

[@mrzameer6197]

Your 100% right I used his red bio media without any kind of sponge at the bottom try and after inspection I found loads of red sand bits at the bottom of my canister and in the motor unit

[@kristinmestyan5965]

So incredibly happy to have found you!! I have a 3' Black Pacu. She's 26 years old, and all I can tell you is that this girl wants to live! Terrible water quality for most of her life, not for the lack of trying, and just adore her. She's been in a 500 gallon tank, ( big blue bucket, lol). But still not nearly big enough for her. I want this girl to live until she's 40, and have a beautiful environment from here on. Love Bonnie Boo. Healthy environment first, then maybe building her a bigger tank? I hope so. 🙏 P.s. Be careful of what you buy for your kids! 😳😅 lol. Going to keep watching your videos, and thank you SO Much!! 😁 So Appreciative, Kristin Mestyan

[@shanes.5392]

Thanks for the great info. Just got an fx6 and wanted to see this first. Also saw comment about waterconditoners. Guess I’ll stick w the api and ditch the prime. Thanks so much

[@Sahadi420]

ditch the prime??? Why??

[@rizla75]

eheim 2250 / 2260 bigger and better

[@pondguru]

Monster filter and some of the big eheims hold vast amounts of media.

[@rizla75]

Pondguru yep ordered a load of biohome off ya just before Christmas u wasn't entirely sure how they setup as no trays come with it .. all designed to be loose but showed ya pics .. decided on 3 course of sponge on bottom and bagged up the media .. had 2 fx6 on my 8ft and was cleaning monthly.. changed to the eheim and now cleaning every 4-5 months ..stocking of tank is no different

[@pondguru]

That sounds good to me, groovy. I'm glad it has worked out well for you.

[@elmee96]

pls an eheim 2260 can hold over 15L of biomedia vs Fluval Fx6 5-6L lol

[@elmee96]

@@ramzeslo2 no i know a well balanced tank can run without a filter. But when it comes to big tanks with a heavy bioload nothing match The eheim 2260

[@frankvisler9596]

I been watching some of these pimp my filter videos and think i did learn some from this, so first big thanks for sharing I am a bit confused, i the video about the Fluval 206 Canister Filter (kzbin.info/www/bejne/qpTad6xnhNl0hqc) you put in 2 x 500g biohome iltra and says this can do a full circle on tanks uptil 800 liters, in this video you put in 5 KG of biohome and says it will do a full cicle on tanks uptil 500 liters. So i do suspect some calculations went wrong or maybe expirence has changed the input for these calculations.

[@JohanJB]

I think he said 100 liters for the 206 because It wouldn't makes sense for the 206, being one of the smallest in the family to maintain 800 liters.

[@frankvisler9596]

@@JohanJB i still dont understand, in 1 video use 1 kg for 800 liter and i other use 5 kg for 500 liters...

[@JohanJB]

@@frankvisler9596 He said "a hundred" liters. I know his accent made it hard to hear but if you go to the 206 video and turn on captions, he did say " a hundred liters" not "eight". So that means that 1 kg is at least enough for around 100 liters.

[@vargagergely152]

Have 2 of these for my 1215 Liter Aquarium and its amazing

[@The-Fishkeeper]

I love the FX filters, they may not have the best amount of space for media but It's still sufficient and the large amount of foam, large strainer and high flow rate is truly amazing for keeping the water clear. I always used to use Eheim canisters as they generally have greater media capacity but as far as mechanical filtration goes, they just don't seem to cut it for the messier fish I keep like my green chromides.

[@pondguru]

Yes the FX filters (and fluval filters in general) always seem to be good at the mechanical side and have adequate provision for biological media but are never outstanding in that department.

[@StarsIgnite]

Painstakingly detailed and thorough video!!! Many many thanks. Those foam sound like a great idea!!! Liked & Subscribed!!!

[@AffordAqua]

You've done a great job with the fx6. I hope you pimp a sump!! I'm thinking of adding one to my 800ltr discus tank.

[@pondguru]

No worries and I'm glad you found the video useful. I do have a small sump to shoot a couple of videos on (one for fresh water and one for salt water) but haven't had the time to make those videos yet - I'm still about 20 videos behind in this series, lol So much editing needed, so little time.

[@killertoy1985]

You are awesome. You give the best advice. Thanks a bunch for helping your fellow man achieve healthy water for our aquatic pets.

[@pondguru]

No worries and I'm glad you enjoy the videos.

[@JEdabody]

These are the best aquarium filter information videos on the internet

[@pondguru]

I'm not sure about that since I've got nothing online to compare this series of videos to but I very much appreciate the comment since I'm committed to building up a huge resource of filter information and it's quite an undertaking due to the time and cost investment. Thanks for watching and appreciating the videos.

[@davidmccallum4794]

I like your video so much I went and bought an FX6 and am going to pimp it out like you did. Thanks! Pet Smart had it on sale for $249

[@huyquoctran2088]

Didn’t use a 25% coupon on it while on sale? Should be cheaper than $249. 4 months ago there was a glitch where you stack 15%, 20% and 25% while fx6 was on sale for $249 making it less than $139

[@2019freddie]

Very good, makes total sense, I will be doing this on my new marine tank.

[@veneshpillay3635]

Thanks Richard another great video. You cleared up a few things with the fx6 that I was not sure of. With out Google and KZbin we would still be in the dark ages.

[@pondguru]

I'm really passionate about making videos with something educational in them so I'm glad you appreciate them - I totally agree it is difficult to find useful information online with all the nonsense clogging it up, lol

[@myextraordinaryfamily7235]

Great vid been waiting for you to do this for ages and cant wait to do my fx4 and fx6 today. Thanks

[@pondguru]

Groovy - I'm glad you found the video useful and apologies for not getting it out sooner. It only takes an hour or so to film a video but getting time to edit it into something watchable takes me many hours over a few days as I don't get much spare time, lol. I have another 6-7 videos filmed and so little time to edit them but hope to have them out soon.

[@jamesfoster7310]

An excellent video showing a wonderful knowledge and willingness to share this knowledge.

[@pondguru]

No worries, that's why I love making videos as it feels great to share any useful information - more importantly it helps fish all over the world live a happy long life.

[@MichaelLeeHensel]

This was such a great explanation, thanks!! You're very knowledgeable. Subscribed.

[@willskip1]

Thanks for this, been anticipating seeing this video since you first mentioned it. I've held back using my third FX6 until I'd seen you set it up. An order will be following soon! Bill

[@pondguru]

lol, they are a great filter and I'm glad you found the video useful.

[@lillybain8799]

Great video and topic, i run 1 of these and an eheim on my 9foot saltwater, impressive filters and easy water top ups and sand cleaning attachment, cheers 👍

[@pondguru]

Yes they have a few great features - it concentrated on the actual filtering side of things but even the handy dials on the top so you can check when you last cleaned it is a nice useful feature.

[@kdr1048]

Really good video. I'm going to buy an FX6 for my 125 im going to set up so this helped me a lot. Thank you

[@pondguru]

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

[@gregdarby4109]

Your videos are great mate, love watching and have helped me out a lot . Thanks

[@pondguru]

No worries and I'm glad you find them useful.

[@levidixie6271]

Thanks!! I waited before buying this until I see you set up. I keep turtles and I use chemical filtration.

[@DeborahNBlack]

Thank you for this wonderfully informative and helpful video.

[@brianzambotti4510]

Beautifully done

[@Justafreesheep]

He always looks like he's just about to smile, but never actually does...like fighting back a smurk at all times lol. Great Info though, much appreciated!

[@Zingo89]

Thx a lot for making this vid! I recently got a FX4 and I love it and I love it even more now after hearing all good things about it from you!

[@pondguru]

Yes the FX4 is a little (big) powerhouse and I have a video on that one coming up soon too - set up is exactly the same except it only has 2 trays so holds 3kg media.

[@johnfloydman7735]

Fantastic video, I am just in the process of starting up again in the hobby after a 4year brake and the fx6 is on the list with a 360l tank of discus . I will be following your advice and pimping the filter ...

[@pondguru]

That should give you around 1.5kg per 100 litres which should achieve a full cycle. There is a video on KZbin from Aquarium Adventures showing an FX6 on a 500 litre discus tank (1kg per 100 litres) which achieved a full cycle in 4.5 months so it is possible with less than the recommended 1.5kg - 2kg per 100 litres for a discus tank.

[@johnfloydman7735]

Pondguru thanks for that I will check it out. My only concern is that the flow might be too much for the discus with the fx6??

[@AquariumAdventures]

I actually run a sump with my Discus tank at the moment - but did for a long time run a FX5 (practically identical to FX6) with my old tank (350l). The Discus were fine with the flow rate - and if you are concerned, it's fairly easy to fit a spray bar or similar to diffuse the flow

[@johnfloydman7735]

Aquarium Adventures thanks for your message and advice. possible spring bar or maybe a lily pipe.

[@Hornbyttgingernerd]

Johnfloyd man77 I run a fx6 in my discus tank with the standard set up just aim the flow appropriately it's fine , my tanks a juwel trigon 350l

[@aussiekickinback]

Great video mate. Well done...

[@frankiefingerz8047]

I just set up 2 fx6 according to ur specs cant wait to c how great this filter is

[@ThousandYardStare]

(my other channel) That is good to hear and as long as the filter(s) are suitably sized for the tank and stock (and you're not using seachem prime which starves the bacteria) they should deliver great results.

[@frankiefingerz8047]

@@ThousandYardStare whoa dont use prime??? what do i use then cuz i always use prime I have a 110 gal w about 10 peacock & hap cichlids & 3 synodontis

[@ThousandYardStare]

@@frankiefingerz8047 Anything else will be fine - I always recommend API stress coat as it doesn't mess with the ammonia, nitrite and nitrate. There is more information on the Q&A page of my FilterPro website www.filterpro.co.uk and I made a video specifically on this issue here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z4qmpYCPj7afn8k and there is some great comments in the comment section there from people who have switched conditioners. There are also some great comments on a post I made in the 'community' tab on my channel here: kzbin.infoUgkxFdgRRt6GxA1o3ffDzsF5dbOaB5xAuoFX Hope that helps.

[@markmonaco8901]

I just did mine today Thanks for your help

[@bluedeval03]

Richard, Best video I have run across yet to explain the best way to set up the FX6. I bought an FX6 for my new 75g tank that will be a tropical tank. I have always run more filters than most, but I knew even with this filter I would want another as well. Looks like I will order another FX6 and have no worries now. However, I am concerned if running two FX6’s will be too much flow for a 75

[@pondguru]

You can never have too much filtration on a tank but flow rate could be an issue for species which don't like a heavy flow so if you have angels, discus etc. which do not live in a flowing current then a spray bar may be better. Actual flow from filters is always about half what the manufacturer promises by the time pipes and media, foams etc. are added so I wouldn't worry too much. I'm glad you enjoyed the video - thanks for watching.

[@shrimper]

i'm glad i'v picked up on your videos i for one have had my filters packed the wrong way around [due to manufacturer advise] i do like the result of bio ultimate so that's on the cards this week

[@pondguru]

Sounds good to me - thanks for watching.

[@tulioalopez]

Thank you, I just bought the FX 6 now thanks to you I’m pimping this monster.

[@robertrosson1990]

Glad to see the video getting ready to do my fx5 filters but I got the 6ft rolls which I'll cut and and use the course and the blue filters after I cut the rolls to size should have the same results only difference is it was cheaper for me to buy the filters by the rolls and cut to fit that way I have plenty for more filtration to use in my fx5 for future cleaning.

[@darrenbuttigieg2154]

Where did you you buy the foam from?

[@allysmith1664]

Thank you so much! This was incredibly helpful!!

[@kurtpatenaude5743]

Great video I just got a FX 6 going to put it on my 65 gallon African cichlids tank to seed then move it to my 150

[@TheJohn316uk]

another great video pondy thanks for sharing brother john :)

[@pondguru]

No worries, man - I have sen a message from you on the watsap thing this morning. Feel free just to ring as I'm too much of an old bum to text.

[@dannyhyde7019]

good information. great idea on the filter media.

[@thefashionablefishkeeper]

My back hurts just looking at that beast of a canister filter!😂😂😂

[@pondguru]

Yes it is like lifting a giant tortoise but it can be drained prior to being moved using the bottom drain feature (if you attach a pipe and lead it to a drain)

[@Hornbyttgingernerd]

Very good video I have a fx6 and it’s not a bad filter way over rated output though I’d only rate it to a 500 litre tank , I run it tandem to my juwel internal it’s it a good combo ( I ordered your fx6 kit the other day and it arrived this morning looks good )

[@kalawai2000]

Excellent video!

[@pondguru]

Glad you enjoyed it - I have been looking forward to getting this one uploaded but didn't want to start the series with this heavy hitter. I've got another 6-7 videos shot and I just need time to edit and upload them. I'm aiming for one a week.

[@adrianleslie7387]

Cracking video mate .going to pimp my fx4 like this now

[@pondguru]

Good one, I'm glad you can see the usefulness of this set-up.

[@CichlidKing]

Great info on all your videos very informative 👍👍

[@bayaizzy4509]

Awesome videos!

[@BenOchart]

Brilliant! Thanks.

[@adamcenteno3147]

I really enjoyed your video. Very well explained. The company must hate you for that 😊. From Puerto Rico. Love your accent.

[@chizzy1961]

fx6 upgraded today-looking forward to the next few weeks/months

[@pondguru]

Sounds good to me - groovy.

[@Sannive]

Got one of them and installed it today and I can add a few pointers on what I thought. Mine looks slightly different however, there are a few differences in the external look and it came with an incredible amount of coarse foams. (WHY?!) It had some ceramic rings as well that filled like half of one tray. A bit cheap of Fluval if you ask me. The hose that leads the water between the tank and cannister was a nightmare to work with. Stiff and annoying to work with as far as bending them over the top of the tank. I have a custom made tank so I have a lot of lip on the top but managed to get the stuff in after a lot of twisting, cussing and sweating. The pump is a bit on the noisey side, but I will see if it quiets down if I put it on some sort of mat that can help reducing noise or perhaps just make a little house for the pump... The "flaps" that is used open and close the in and outlets with are tough as hell, I wouldn't have been able to move those things without aid. It was difficult for the cannister to get rid of air, it kept turning itself off so it took a while to actually air it out to get it working properly. It has good outlets though, two mouths that you can direct in any way you like for what suits the tank the best.

[@rootreinlavery2442]

Thanks for these great tips. Inspired me. Greetings from Canada. 🍻

[@ThousandYardStare]

(my other channel) No worries and I'm glad you found the video useful - best of luck with the tank.

[@andystevens7557]

I run my FX6 on a 125 high tech and it has performed flawlessly. I actually went and bought the Fluval branded medium (blue) filter that goes at the top of basket 1. Has worked well for a year with the original pad and 3 cleanings. You did teach me a trick using fingers through the windows to properly seat the foam (thank you). I also bought 1000g of pumice media that completely fill tray 3 while varied bio/chemical media fill tray 2. I reserved tray 1 for all of the filter pads. Question: How long can filter pads last before they should be changed? I clean my filter pads every few months and they seem to be holding up, but I also don't want them failing and clogging the pump.

[@mgl63823]

another great video.

[@COOPERSCICHILDS]

Cool video

[@aquaticsandfurries8718]

Great video, will be changing my foams in the fx4 😊

[@pondguru]

No worries and I'm glad you enjoyed the video - I have shot a video on the FX4 but it needs editing, set up is basically the same except it only holds 3kg media.

[@aquaticsandfurries8718]

Pondguru excellent, I’ll keep an eye out for that video as well. 😊

[@pondguru]

It will probably be a few weeks as I like to mix it up a bit with the filters but I will get onto it.

[@aquaticsandfurries8718]

Pondguru i watch all this series anyway, sometimes i surprise myself when you do one who ive already got it but thats only because ive watched so many of your videos on filters lol

[@migueleespinosa2632]

I need help in understand my theory on the flow thing. 1) the flow will only impact the exterior of the media unless the media is so porous that is allows the pressure of the flow to be retain through it. 2) media that absorbs water will retain it in a much more static state than the flow deep in its composition. So the deeper pores will automatically experience a low flow state that will be favorable to an anaerobic condition because the aerobic bacteria will consume the oxygen rich water before it reaches the low flow (virtually stagnate) area of the media. I use two FX6 on a heavily overstock (confession) African Cichlid 120g tank with sand and Texas Holey rock. Running about three months now and well established. I set up the filters before learning of Bio home using Matrix and Marine Pure products. I am intrigued through especially, by your Super Bio Gravel in following my theory noted above. Thanks for your videos!!!

[@ianroughley1933]

***This is the pimp I’ve been waiting for*** next time I open my FX6 I will replace those side sponges to this upgrade and see how it goes. The very bottom tray has a filter pad (I will not say its fine but maybe a medium) and when that blocks the flow rate drops right off. I have to admit I thought the bottom tray would be the first the water would go through. Not sure about the fine pad on the top. Only time will tell :) Cheers PG

[@pondguru]

Yes the limited contact area of the fine pad is a concern which was the thinking behind the medium foams being added to the outer areas of the trays - they should catch proportion of the fine muck to lessen the fine pad's work.

[@bryanfarragher6343]

Great video pimped a few of the fx filters mow. Tar mate

[@sherluthien]

Brilliant!! Thank you!

[@TheMisleadingWoodpecker]

Thanks buddy! Much appreciated!

[@pondguru]

No worries, glad you enjoyed the video.

[@daveogmiles6152]

Just ordered some bio home ultimate for my fx4