How can I make a better version of this DIY canister filter?

[Glasman]

Just get the small penguin HOB filter. The bio-wheel always stays in place so your bacteria wont be disturbed. And its quite easy to take the filter pad that they come with and remove all the carbon. You can reuse the filter pad frame with the filter floss you already use. I think the small one is around 17-18 bucks.

 

[RobotDeathSquad]

Just get the small penguin HOB filter. The bio-wheel always stays in place so your bacteria wont be disturbed. And its quite easy to take the filter pad that they come with and remove all the carbon. You can reuse the filter pad frame with the filter floss you already use. I think the small one is around 17-18 bucks.

So this filter pad, I can use over and over again, just by replacing it with a sort of filter mesh? Or it requires something specific? (i.e. like a biobag)?

Would it be possible to have a visual aid of what you mean?

lol, I am a newbie at this as you can tell , and I really appreciate the patience you guys have for us

 

[RobotDeathSquad]

In addition to above question:

you mean like one of these?

 

[Glasman]

That is exactly what i meant.

 

[bitteraspects]

Do they provide adequate biological filteration? What do I do about mechanical filteration? =)

Also, everyone that says use a HOB filter, I don't want to do that. I don't want activated carbon if I have live plants. Besides, if I replace the cartridges, doesnt that remove beneficial bacteria?

yes, a sponge will provide adequate biological filtration. if you go with a sponge filter, your mechanical filtration will be manual (as in, regular vacuuming and cleaning)

if you go with a HOB (good option), just get one that doesn't use cartridges. AquaClear HOB filters offer a much better system than cartridge style HOB's. no cartridges to buy and replace, and no worry about losing your beneficial bacteria.
definitely something to look into