Media For Aquaclear 20

Hi,

I have an AquaClear 20, which comes with a Foam, Bio Media and Carbon.

I have removed the carbon and added some more Bio-Media.

Just wanted to confirm if it is better to add Bio Media, or I should have added another Foam instead?

Cheers!
Deep

 

I use two foams in most of my ACs and some have no bio media [their version] at all . I run over 40 !
All media [even useless carbon ] can become bio media if treated properly .
I think the fish industry has scammed most into believing they need better bio when most already are doing fine …
If you get nitrates and zeros on ammonia and nitrite not sure what anyone thinks better bio will do ?
It sure won't make more nitrates and even if it did is that what people want ?
All bio needs to be rinsed eventually and I have found over the years [many] that sponges work best .
I even have a thread from years ago asking why all think they need better bio media and Diana Walstad chimed in …
At least I think I have it right according to her !~

 

I don't think it matters. I've seen very overstocked cichlid tanks run on sponge filters. It's whatever you prefer. I use both as I don't see the harm.
If you're going to use one only, go with foam.

 

sponges have plenty of surface area. fine sponges have more than course sponges. and ceramics have more surface area than sponges or pot scrubbers, etc.

as long as its able to handle the bioload in your tank, then it is enough. the only negative about having too much bio media is you're spending more money.

 

the only negative about having too much bio media is you're spending more money.

And your point is????

 

I have one sponge and the rest is bio media. Works for me

 

I own some AC's also, but not as many as Coralbandit!

You can add a 2nd sponge or add a layer of Polyfill or other brand of craft pillow stuffing for better fine mechanical filtration.

 

Just added ATI brand pre sponge filters to my AC20's. Took a little fiddling to get them onto the intake but I think it's a good way to improve this little filter.

 

Yep, those are great. I have the ATI Hydro Max II in one of my AC30's, an a "Max III" on my AC110.