FX5 or Odyssea CFS 14i???

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
Just to add a comment about the Odyssea CFS 500 purchased 6 months ago from Aqua Traders: The filter is working beautifully 6 months on, but don't expect any support from Aqua Traders. The Chinese manufacturer of this FX5 clone (which is probably illegal) has _not_ addressed the problem of the O-rings on the filter lid being too thick, making it very difficult to remove the "quick release" valves. Aqua Traders repeatedly ignored my requests for help although the problem had been brought to their attention. They invited me to send the unit back to an address in China! Here is a section of our correspondence: 1. Are you aware of the problem of sticking quick-release valves which has been widely discussed in online forums?
2. Is the sticking quick-release valve problem caused by O-rings which are too thick? (This has also been brought to your attention: [url]http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?249341-parts-for-odyssea-cfs-500[/URL])
3. Will you replace the valves for $12? Or would you rather I return the entire filter for $60?
Please be specific.
Response from Aqua Traders: Manufacturer guaranteed the ballast/ motor up to 180 days from the date you purchase the item, you need to send the item to the location below, including a copy of invoice proofing the purchase date and a return shipping label that you can receive the replacemen [sic]: 165, Changdi Street,Luju Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510370, China


The problem was solved for $0.78: 2 thinner O rings and a little bit of Vaseline and I can now pop off the "quick release" valves as intended.

I've been happy with the filter; water crystal clear; very large volume. However, be aware that Aqua Traders is not interested in supporting their product; once it's yours, you're on your own.
 
be aware that Aqua Traders is not interested in supporting their product; once it's yours, you're on your own.
This is a common practice amongst many businesses, not just AquaTraders. When I buy no name products at a fraction of the price of a brand name ones, I don't worry about tech supports and/or guarantees. I am taking a gamble and hoping it pays off. If it craps out and I can't remedy it, then I move on.

I've gambled on Odyssea and Sunsun and I have been extremely pleased. Of course, I do do a little research on the web for reviews and such and decide from there. So, I knew about the issue with the Odyssea o-rings before I bought it.......resolved for about $5. I now own 2 Odyssea and 3 Sunsun canisters :)
 
I'm just going to risk it and buy the CFS14i w/ 36w uv bulb.. I will post pics or vids when purchased it won't be till the beginning of next year. And I will also do the plant thing thanks for the advices everyone.!


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I cant belive I didn't know about this... I will be buying one for my 125 next week ! So cheap ! Way better then the 400+ FX6's are locally.
 
This is a common practice amongst many businesses, not just AquaTraders. When I buy no name products at a fraction of the price of a brand name ones, I don't worry about tech supports and/or guarantees. I am taking a gamble and hoping it pays off. If it craps out and I can't remedy it, then I move on.

I've gambled on Odyssea and Sunsun and I have been extremely pleased. Of course, I do do a little research on the web for reviews and such and decide from there. So, I knew about the issue with the Odyssea o-rings before I bought it.......resolved for about $5. I now own 2 Odyssea and 3 Sunsun canisters :)

I have a sun sun, how did u fix O rings.
 
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