Fluval 404 for mech only...worth trying?

[CTU2fan]

I have one not in use right now, I was thinking of adding it to my 170G. Currently it has an fx5 with matrix and scrubbies and a small sump (around 30G or so) with bioballs, scrubbies, and some matrix. My levels are just fine, but I wouldn't mind a bit more clarity. I understand the polishing pads for the fx5 are a loser because they clog fast I'm told, but I was thinking of putting pads or floss in the 404 and adding that. Will that work, or are canisters not great at mech (I've heard this from various people). My tank is eurobraced and I don't really see an option to add hob's, and frankly the water isn't cloudy enough that I'd bother with that anyway...but if the 404 would help me with clarity I'd try that.

Or I could just fill it with biomedia and add it, if the floss/pad idea won't work.

 

[turtlesrock]

sure itll work. they may not be the best at mech filtration, but they can do some mech. if the 404 is just laying aroun, unused, id add it no matter what. just put in the fluval foam and then filter floss.

 

[tcarswell]

They sell fine pads for the 404 as well. No experience with them however. I love the green bag filter floss in my 404 it polishes the water extremely well. I say go for it. Since you got 4 trays you could save one for carbon or purigen if needed.

 

[CTU2fan]

OK thanks guys, sounds like a plan.

(except I'm looking at a tank on CL that only comes with cheap hob's...the 404 may have a use after all )

 

[JakeH]

Nobody says you have to buy only Fluval media. A canister can be a great mech filter. Get a bag of cheap floss, a bunch of random sponge, some Rena foam & SuperMicro, etc... Try different combos until you get the results you want.