Filter idea for 220g

[remme]

Was wondering if this little pool filter would work in conjunction w/ the sump I am planning for my 220g tank. Instead of sand I was also thinking about using the pictured filter balls. Does anyone have any experience using small, sand style filters on larger aquariums?

 

[fishguy1978]

Why not use an FX-6 if you want a canister?

 

[danotaylor]

Where/how would you position the sand filter? The noise & heat generated by the pump will be a major consideration, which is a non-issue when outside, but may be an issue depending on where in your home the tank will be…
Also, 0.35HP pump will create a whirlpool in a 220g

 

[remme]

I like the backwashing feature that the multivalve allows for when I want to do quick water changes without vacuuming the gravel. The FX6 is 925gph max and a Ultima 2 1000 is up to a 1000gph; just figured this was similar (1200gph max) for a fraction of the cost. The tank (84x24x24) is going into a finished basement with an unfinished utility room that shares the same wall. I was going to plumb through the wall and have the filter located in the utility room draining into the same sump pump as my slop sink (2640 gph). It was just the beginning of a thought of a possible idea.

 

[remme]

I can always swap the pump for one meant for an aquarium; Something like this: Blueline 30 HD-X External Aquarium Water Pump
- Inlet: 1" MPT
- Outlet: 1" MPT
- Max Total Head (FT): 13
- Max Discharge (GPH) @ 0ft: 1,110
- Input (W): 90
- Length(in): 10
- Width(in): 4
- Height(in): 5

 

[HUKIT]

For $150 it seems like a cool project. You could easily use a ball valve to throttle the return or use a DC pump like a Jebao.

 

[danotaylor]

Seems like you’re essentially wanting to create a fluidized bed for biological conversion. Would that be correct? If so, I would recommend using the sand and not the filter balls. The backwash feature will clear the sand of fine particulate debris that makes it past the sump pre-filter, not sure it would clear the filter balls

 

[kendragon]

Waiting for the Best Pond Pump from Easy Pro guy to chime in.

 

[Toby_H]

Several people have tried sand filters on fish tanks. Typically the sand gets mucked up too quickly and becomes more work than its worth to keep up. I've not personally tried it. I'd speculate the filter balls you posted would be better than sand, but that's nothing but speculation.

Throttling a magnetic drive pump is common and harmless. Throttling a straight drive pump stresses the pump, generates extra heat, stresses the plumbing and results in early failure.

I like trying out of the box ideas. If you do it please report back and let us know how it's working. And if it doesn't work out, you now have a filter for a back yard pond. One more reason for a back yard pond.

 

[remme]

I like the idea of the DC pump. Any suggestions on a quality company? Looked into the Jebao and I like it but would like others opinions on the subject. I think the 1000gph range would be sufficient. Thanks