Diatom XL reviews

[TankBuster]

I was thinking about buying one of these and then I came across a review. How valid do you think this concern is.

"We've used a Diatom XL for about five years now on our 125 gal freshwater, and a 55 gal freshwater. The positive side it what this type of filter does for the aquarium; the water stays extremely clear, clean... it's amazing. We run the diatoms 24/7.
The sad part is that they only seem to last about a year or so before something gives out on the pump. And the reality is that it is just as cheap to order a new one as it is to replace just the pump. Over the years, we have watched the quality of the pump head and electricals decline noticeably. What used to be a three-conductor cord with ground plug is now a flimsy lamp-cord. The rotary switch is now a cord-mounted lamp switch that, shoud you ever have a leak, is going to be laying in water. Bearing noise is almost a given after a few months of continuous operation.
Their website (vortex diatom) says these are made for continuous operation. But they don't make them like they used to. It's sad. We eventually will devise a way to do away with their pump and mount an external."

 

[FishSkins]

I would not run one 24/7 i have had a XL for about 7 years with out any problems ..i only use it from time to time to clear the water if needed , and that is rare

 

[TankBuster]

Ok, thanks. That is exactly what I was going to use it for. I like the backflush option. Can I use it on my fresh tanks and then swap it over to salt?

 

[RadleyMiller]

I've used it on my brackish tank and worked great. Only problem is I need more diatom powder but I think you can get it at the pool store. It got rid of green water within a day. Very reasonable and I ran it on a timer.

 

[skinless]

works great after water changes.
i'll crack mine out every couple of months.
couldn't imagine running it 24/7.

must clog quick.

 

[mbutzer]

I used one on an as-needed basis for a few years. Then, the bell jar broke. Prior to that, the pump housing started to crack. It worked great, but i was not impressed with the rigour of the design. I also found it a pain to deal with the powder.

 

[TankBuster]

Thanks, I appreciate all the feedback. How hard is it to prepare for saltwater after you have used it on freshwater? Do you have to remove all the diatom powder?

 

[gomezladdams]

Same here I would never try to run continous theres no point.Great for running an hour or two after a waterchange.Id get a separate one for salt tanks,depending on the fw fish salt tolerance

 

[TankBuster]

Ok, thanks again for the info. Helped alot. I will buy one and if it works well enough, then I will buy another.

 

[Dr Joe]

I've used it on my brackish tank and worked great. Only problem is I need more diatom powder but I think you can get it at the pool store. It got rid of green water within a day. Very reasonable and I ran it on a timer.

Do a search on MFK (maybe 4-6mo's ago) about the pool filter powders...not a good thing and will void warrenty if filter is new.

Dr Joe

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