Yeah thats why i love aquaclears for HOB. Im pumped for this thing to be running, can you tell me if those are the quick connects? They do have levers for closing the valves so i can completely stop the water from both sides if need be. Is that what you mean by preventing a big mess? Also should the spray bar be above or below water? Pleaseee someone answer the questions by morning im installing it when i wake up haha dont wanna mess it up.
Any reccomendations on bio material? Is purigen all its cracked up to be?
i don't not own that exact model canister but I do own Eheim canisters. Those pics you posted are quick disconnect valve. The purpose for them is to allow you to stop the water from siphoning out of your tank while you disconnect the valve to take the canister out for cleaning. If you did not have this disconnect valve you would need to yank the hose out of the canister thus making water squirt everywhere. Good times! LoL
The spray bar can be place above or below the water level. It's really up to you. If you place above the water level it would create surface agitation but will make water fall noise which can be annoying if you like your room quiet for reading. I don't use any spray bars because I don't like tubes sticking all over my tank.
As for bio media you can place almost any type of media. Keep in mind that certain media work better for different filtration system. For canister, I would recommend fluval bio max, Eheim coco puff balls, lava rocks, and pond matrix mix. I have personally used these and have had good results with them. Make sure you google for the placement of the sponges. This will keep your media cleaner and easier to service.
Btw, do you know how to prime or jump start a canister filter? You simply fill the canister up with water then fill the intake tube up with water. Fire that bad boy up. Check for leaks every 10-15 mins for the first hour. If no leaks then you are all set. I like HOB for mechanical filtration but for bio I prefer canister.
PS you can attach a porous sponge to the intake to use as a pre filter. This will extend your service schedule.