FX5 beginner

[dad_jsp]

Ok, so I just bought an FX5 and I have a few questions

How many bio-balls will fit in each tray? I understand they come in different sizes, so you answer should include the size.

Do I need to keep the foam pads around each tray?

Should I have the output near the bottom of the tank or the top?

Should I have the intake near the AC110 or on the other side of the tank.

This is going on a 100g tank at will be stocked with 25ish dwarf mbuna's with a lot of caves. This is why I am am concerned with the placement of the hoses.

I have a lot of left over lava rock. I read in the stick that it is best to crush it and put it in media bags. If I do that, how long (if ever) what I need to replace it??

thanks

 

[oscarsftw]

FX5 is pretty customizable. I think the output should be at the top of the tank. Well at least most aquariums I've seen have it near the top or in the corners of the tank. I think you should put the intake on the other side of the tank. Keeping the foam pads around the trays is up to you some people mod it and take it out.

 

[koop171]

Ok, so I just bought an FX5 and I have a few questions

How many bio-balls will fit in each tray? I understand they come in different sizes, so you answer should include the size. Not sure I keep bio max in the trays. and it takes about two boxes of bio max to get a good layer IMO.

Do I need to keep the foam pads around each tray? Yes, I personally would I read the posting wrong the fisrt time I thought you were talking about the smaller round filter pads. The FX5 has a great capacity for mech. filtration. Why not use it.

Should I have the output near the bottom of the tank or the top? I personally do. It helps agitate the water better for better Arration (sp)

Should I have the intake near the AC110 or on the other side of the tank. Put the intake where ever you think its best just don't cover it with any decor b/c then dirt and other particals you want to be sucked into the filter won't get there as readily. Also make sure it's no where near air you don't want to suck air into your canisters.

This is going on a 100g tank at will be stocked with 25ish dwarf mbuna's with a lot of caves. This is why I am am concerned with the placement of the hoses.

I have a lot of left over lava rock. I read in the stick that it is best to crush it and put it in media bags. If I do that, how long (if ever) what I need to replace it?? Not sure how long before you would need to replace it or if ever but you should put it in a media bag so that no small pieces get into the pump.

thanks

Hope that helps you out