Aquaclear Filter, add extra sponge or extra biomax, which is better ?

[plecostic]

I'm removing the carbon insert from my Aquaclear filters, was thinking of replacing it with extra sponge, is this better or should I go with an extra biomax rings instead ?

I know some will argue that the more bio-media the better but I'm not convinced having more will do anything more than what the current bio-max inserts do. Once a tank is cycled it's cycled, is there such thing as one tank being more cycled than the other due to having more bio-media ? I doubt it but would be interested to know if that's the case.

The water is always crstal clear, not sure if adding a sponge will provide any extra benefit, perhaps prolong PWC ?

Which would you use for an extra insert ?

 

[importracer]

I look at the AC101's as the ultamate, affordable mechanical filtration device..........There is three types of filtration that must be stable in order to have "clean" water................There is BIOLOGICAL, MECHANICAL, CHEMICAL...............AC101's take care of the mechanical part really well by filtering out sediment that is small enough to be caught by a sponge.............Biological and chemical filtration is best done by firts building a DIY wet/dry filter..............Once the basic idea is learned through this DIY, then if you can, buy a brand new ready-made wet/dry filter..................

 

[joe jaskot]

I run my 16 aquaclears with two sponges only. I have one that has been running 24/7 since 1978. The energizer bunny of power filters. LOL!

 

[Chizzle]

I have four AC110s on my 150 gallon and I put extra biomax into each of them.

 

[aclockworkorange]

I would go extra sponge. I don't know why people seem to think sponges aren't partially bio media as well? Lots of space for beneficial bacteria to grow.

 

[bbortko]

If you don't have any ammonia or nitrites you don't need more biomax. I'd use filter floss to help catch smaller particles that make through the first sponge.

 

[seedubs1]

I just packed the remaining space after removing the carbon with scrubbies.

 

[plecostic]

If you don't have any ammonia or nitrites you don't need more biomax. I'd use filter floss to help catch smaller particles that make through the first sponge.

Wouldn't an extra sponge do the same as the filter floss ? How would I add the floss just tear off and insert or inside a bag ?

I just packed the remaining space after removing the carbon with scrubbies.

What are Scrubbles ?

 

[jpac716]

nylon pot scrubbers

 

[bbortko]

Filter floss is another form of mechanical media that looks like pillow stuffing. It will do the same as a sponge but is better at trapping smaller particles that make it past the sponge. I put it between the sponge and biomax.