Question about filtering a 400 Gallon Tank

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
Thanks for the reply Guys - I understand about more bio load needing more filter capacity =).

I guess the main Question I have is is there another version or something else out there I am not aware of. I am considering the Ultima II 1000 - or possible a combination of the Ultima II 100 and some FX5's as I have 2 already...???

From what I read the Ultima II 1000 is rated from 500-1000 Gallons? What size pump would you recommend to properly operate that filter?

PS - I always have a LARGE sponge filter in there just because and this set up will have a constant flow water drip system on it adding about 60 gallons a day which will overflow out a drain line on the tank =) - Just FYI
 
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Arkangel77 said:
Thanks for the reply Guys - I understand about more bio load needing more filter capacity =).

I guess the main Question I have is is there another version or something else out there I am not aware of. I am considering the Ultima II 1000 - or possible a combination of the Ultima II 100 and some FX5's as I have 2 already...???

From what I read the Ultima II 1000 is rated from 500-1000 Gallons? What size pump would you recommend to properly operate that filter?

PS - I always have a LARGE sponge filter in there just because and this set up will have a constant flow water drip system on it adding about 60 gallons a day which will overflow out a drain line on the tank =) - Just FYI
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Going with a pond/pool filter like the ultima sounds like the way to go then! What will you have in it?
 
Arkangel77 said:
Thanks for the reply Guys - I understand about more bio load needing more filter capacity =).

I guess the main Question I have is is there another version or something else out there I am not aware of. I am considering the Ultima II 1000 - or possible a combination of the Ultima II 100 and some FX5's as I have 2 already...???

From what I read the Ultima II 1000 is rated from 500-1000 Gallons? What size pump would you recommend to properly operate that filter?

PS - I always have a LARGE sponge filter in there just because and this set up will have a constant flow water drip system on it adding about 60 gallons a day which will overflow out a drain line on the tank =) - Just FYI
Click to expand...

The Ultima II 1000 is rated for 500-1000 ponds. Big difference from the hobbiest tank. We require a much higher turnover rate than most ponds. Additionally these filters have a "max" flow rate for each model. I won't put more than 2500 GPH through a 1000 model if using properly. Having said that I run one with 4300 GPH on a pup grow out tank (significant bioload). Pushing more flow through than designed means it will not trap particulate (mechanical) but will serve as great bio. If you want both you will have to find the sweet spot for flow.

There are many cheaper alternatives out there. Many people convert sand filters (pool filters) to large canisters. The combos and options are endless if you have the right experience giving you advice. The key elements to figure out is:

-How many turn overs per hour
-Mechanical and biological or just one or the other
-Any prefilters like socks etc...?
-Does the tank have overflow towers?
-Are you on a tight budget (Ultimas are off of the list if so)
-What stocking levels or bioload will this support?
-Any supplemental filtration? (FX5's as an example)
 
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I understnd -

Few things I can say off the top or My head -
No Towers or pre-filters will be on this system, already started construction and past the point of changing / adding that in.
If I had my Choice I would like the filter to do both Mechanical and Biological.

As for Stocking - Leichardti Aro, African Aro, LARGE (28") Fire EEL, 1 Zebra Pike and prolly 2 to 3 rays would be MAX stocking and if I do the rays - this may not be there forever home.

As for flow, I will let the needs of the filters determine that, and same for adding FX5's. I have two now but could easily sell them and purchase pumps for optima's or whatever
 
Per their website, they recommend a pump that can push 1,000 gph @10ft. That is a serious pump. A lot of folks use reeflo I believe.

JK47 JK47 On your point related to our tanks vs ponds. Is it possible to just have this filter do 2x turnover to optimize its use and then just use powerheads to make sure the fish have sufficient flow?
 
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Arkangel77 said:
PS - I am sure this is prolly not the exact correct pump but would something like this be in the range for the Ultima II 1000?

https://www.123ponds.com/a50073.html

https://www.123ponds.com/566020.html
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Yes that little giant could easily run an Ultima 1000. For the price I would recommend going with a Reeflo Dart/Snapper hybrid. Use the dart impeller and save the snapper impeller (comes with one each) for emergencies. Reeflo's are excellent pumps and last longer than most external pumps IME. I run five...

The absolute BEST way to set these up is to buy a pump that runs less watts when restricted (Reeflo last longer when restricted and use less watts). Restrict it with an easy to access ball valve. When you backwash, unrestrict it via opening the ball valve all the way. That will give you max flow to backwash and require less water be pulled from the tank until the filter is cleaned. With your other two FX#'s as auxiliary/supplemental filtration you would be set. Make sure you have done tons of home work and REALLY want to go that route before buying equipment. If you don't intend to stay on top of backwash maintenance don't buy an Ultima. Bio will suffer if it is left to fill up with mechanical.
 
nzafi said:
Per their website, they recommend a pump that can push 1,000 gph @10ft. That is a serious pump. A lot of folks use reeflo I believe.

JK47 JK47 On your point related to our tanks vs ponds. Is it possible to just have this filter do 2x turnover to optimize its use and then just use powerheads to make sure the fish have sufficient flow?
Click to expand...

It could be possible/plausible depending upon ones stocking levels. I wouldn't invest in the kind of money they require and only use it for two turn overs though. I use mine for mech and bio. Those of you who read through my last build thread know I took a unique approach though for a very specific application.

My 600 has two Ultima II 2000 and two Reeflo Dart gold model pumps. I push the limits but it is an awesome setup. I love it
 
That's Good advice, Thanks man. Let me ask you this - how often do they need to be back-washed? I currently do weekly water changes sooo - weekly is easy, just wondeing what a normal back-flush regiment would be?
 
JK47 said:
Yes that little giant could easily run an Ultima 1000. For the price I would recommend going with a Reeflo Dart/Snapper hybrid. Use the dart impeller and save the snapper impeller (comes with one each) for emergencies. Reeflo's are excellent pumps and last longer than most external pumps IME. I run five....
Click to expand...

PS what reeflo pump would u recommend for the Ultama 1000? Based off your experience?

PPS - My Bad , Looks like the Dart/Snapper is the model pump =).

Only problem now is how to eyeball the flow rate of that pump from 1825 GPH @ 10' head pump to 1200? lol
 
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