Upgrading Top Fin To Sponge

I have a Top Fin 10 in my planted Betta tank. It uses carbon/cartridges as filter media. I would like to swap to sponge and bio-rings and be done with the cartridges unless I'm filtering medication out. The space for modification is limited compared to the old Top Fins. What is the benefit of stacking bio-rings on top of sponge? I've seen them set up in stages, and that seems like it would be a better filtration process.



I did find one mod, but his sponge section seems extremely small (pic attached), and he is still using carbon cartridges. Could I just fill with bio-rings in the back, and cut a thicker piece of sponge to put in place of the cartridge? I will also be adding a sponge pre-filter on the intake tube.

 

You could try it! That sponge he is using is ideal for larger particles (based on how course it looks). I'd add something for more "fine" type mechanical filtration, like adding filter floss where the cartridge used to be. This will help "polish" the water and keep it clear. That black mechanical sponge won't do a great job of it alone.

Generally, as long as the flow is not inhibited to the point where it's causing back flow or bypass, you're good. When modifying the filter just make sure the flow is still good. And adjust from there if needed. Good luck

 

You could try it! That sponge he is using is ideal for larger particles (based on how course it looks). I'd add something for more "fine" type mechanical filtration, like adding filter floss where the cartridge used to be. This will help "polish" the water and keep it clear. That black mechanical sponge won't do a great job of it alone.

Genetally, as long as the flow is not inhibited to the point where it's causing back flow or bypass, you're good. When modifying the filter just make sure the flow is still good. And adjust from there if needed. Good luck

Ok thanks. I could basically just use the cartridges as they are filter floss...without adding the activated charcoal. What pp sponge do you think that is?

 

Ok thanks. I could basically just use the cartridges as they are filter floss...without adding the activated charcoal. What pp sponge do you think that is?

You could do that as well, just use an empty filter cartridge. I'm not sure about that specific sponge but what I've done is gone to my local pet store and use a sponge from meant for an AquaClear filter (AC 20) and cut it to size. I belive Topfin also sells sponges at most pet stores.

Aquarium Co OP is also a great online stores for DIYers. They sell am assortment of sponges I believe.

 

You could do that as well, just use an empty filter cartridge. I'm not sure about that specific sponge but what I've done is gone to my local pet store and use a sponge from meant for an AquaClear filter (AC 20) and cut it to size. I belive Topfin also sells sponges at most pet stores.

Aquarium Co OP is also a great online stores for DIYers. They sell am assortment of sponges I believe.

Aquarium co-op is where I got the idea...but they are using Aquaclears...Top Fin 10s have no where near that much room...that's why I'm trying to find out why people stack versus stage vertically.

 

Aquarium co-op is where I got the idea...but they are using Aquaclears...Top Fin 10s have no where near that much room...that's why I'm trying to find out why people stack versus stage vertically.

AquaClears filter from the bottom up. That's why you can stack with those. With the Topfin water is fed from left to right. So you would need to stage. If I get what you're asking

 

AquaClears filter from the bottom up. That's why you can stack with those. With the Topfin water is fed from left to right. So you would need to stage. If I get what you're asking

AmnScott makes a good point. Your filter is setup incorrectly, you are impeding the water flow. The back section needs to be totally open so water can flow from one side to the other and then flow through the media. The way you have it now the filter is plugged up, water will take the path of least resistance and channel. This is the main reason Aquaclear and Tidal filters work well. The water flows from bottom up through the media and reduces channeling.

 

AquaClears filter from the bottom up. That's why you can stack with those. With the Topfin water is fed from left to right. So you would need to stage. If I get what you're asking

That's it! Thanks, I knew it was odd seeing guys stack bio-rings on top of sponges for a left to right fed filter. I am actually considering a corner filter now as there is no room in the newer Top Fins to modify it to sponge and rings without clogging it. Either that, or I'll buy an Aquaclear as they are highly rated.

AmnScott makes a good point. Your filter is setup incorrectly, you are impeding the water flow. The back section needs to be totally open so water can flow from one side to the other and then flow through the media. The way you have it now the filter is plugged up, water will take the path of least resistance and channel. This is the main reason Aquaclear and Tidal filters work well. The water flows from bottom up through the media and reduces channeling.

Thank you, but my filter is set up correctly at the moment. The picture attached above is not my filter.

 

If I do go the corner filter route...to get it cycled, could I take my existing gravel from the floor of my tank and replace it with the gravel that comes with the new filter, or should I run them both for a while to establisb bacteria on the new?
Again, thanks for all your help.

 

If I do go the corner filter route...to get it cycled, could I take my existing gravel from the floor of my tank and replace it with the gravel that comes with the new filter, or should I run them both for a while to establisb bacteria on the new?
Again, thanks for all your help.

Gravel will contain a minimal amount of bacteria. I'd try to somehow get some of the media from your established filter in there. I've never personally used a corner filter, but in theory I am sure it can be done. Maybe cut out some of the filter floss and put it over the gravel layer?