How to keep filter from overflowing/bypassing media

Just got a new 36 gallon bow front Aqueon aquarium kit. Using an Aqueon Quietflow30 with size large cartridges. I am still in the middle of my fishless cycle and have already noticed something and was curious if I should be worried and suggestions on what to do.

I have already noticed that with the cartridge pushed all the way to the bottom of its slot inside the filter the water inside the filter raises and begins flowing over the "bypass/overflow" wall that keeps the water from flowing through the cartridge. As I am still trying to cycle the tank, the cartridge isn't even that clogged up yet. I was curious if this is something to worry about and if so, what steps can be done to lower the intake flowrate? I have thought about stuffing some filter media into the intake tube but wasn't sure how this would affect the pump.

I appreciate any thoughts and suggestions!

 

I along with others will tell you that filters with those cartridges are very limited. They make it difficult to add the amount of filtration necessary. Id recommend getting a different type of hob filter. Looking for 180 to 360 gph for optimal filtration. Most filters that come with tanks arnt actually sufficient. Alot of people like the aqua clear brand as it is easy to add different media. I like the nat geo brands.

 

Thanks for the feedback Big Red. I am been researching the aqua clear brand of filters and was curious if you had any insight on these vs the fluval c series. It appears that they are both made by Hagan and relatively the same. Curious as to why my local big box shops only tend to carry the aqua clear versions? Is Hagan going to eventually phase 1 of these out or keep 2 relatively similar competing products? Is there a particular reason why you can find the aqua clear filters in like 4 different styles of packaging? It appears like they tried re-branding it, but then reverted back? Thanks!

 

Not sure if theyll phase on out or not. Never used the c series. The packaging is probably different bc of how long theyve been around.

 

I got a filter from the same brand with my aquarium kit and just purchased a Fluval Aquaclear 50 filter for the same reason. I tried to add a small amount of bio media and it overflowed - not enough space.

 

That has been my experience with the Quietflow also. It only seems to be bypass water, as if the pump is too strong for the media. I did have some limited success by removing the bio/aerator insert in the output.
Putting media in the intake would be a PIA and could come loose and mess up the impeller.