I couldn't use a HOB overflow? I've heard about those but don't know anything about them. Like wouldn't that allow for a sump without holes? Or do you require more equipment for one of those?
Two Fluval FX6's or Custom Sump
- Thread starter The-Almighty-Zugs
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- fluval fx6 fx6 sump sump vs fx6
I couldn't use a HOB overflow? I've heard about those but don't know anything about them. Like wouldn't that allow for a sump without holes? Or do you require more equipment for one of those?
I’d go with the sump it’s easier to clean it holds more filtration media it adds more water volume to the system if you have an aggressive fish you could put them in there for a time out it makes it so you don’t see any heaters or other equipment. If those aren’t enough pros to make it go with the sump I don’t know what is. I have an FX6 it’s on a 60 gallon I put off cleaning it every time because it’s such a hassle unscrewing all those latches lugging off 50 pound canister around and I think the sun sun Chinese canister filters are better I have one of those and it holds way more biological media than the FXX and I think it’s like a quarter of the price. It’s been up and running for eight years and the only thing I ever had to do to it was put some Vaseline on the O-ring after a couple years and I think that’s normal for just about any O Ring. Never had to replace anything on my sunsun have gone through to him calories in one motor on my FX6 and I’ve had that three years less time. Don’t get me wrong the FX6 is a good canister filter I just don’t think it’s worth the price.
I built my sump it’s an 80 gallon frag tank for $150 and that’s for the used tank and all the glass silicone I needed
If you're uncomfortable with the unknown of a sump system and the subsequent need to drill your tank, bearing in mind you're not handy, maybe post no12 from freak78 may be worth considering.
His tanks are always immaculately clean, he runs cannisters and HOB's. And like he mentions in his post, if you can get good deals on the FX6's at sale time, then that would be an option worth thinking about.
But whatever you do, DO NOT spend $1300 on a sump!
His tanks are always immaculately clean, he runs cannisters and HOB's. And like he mentions in his post, if you can get good deals on the FX6's at sale time, then that would be an option worth thinking about.
But whatever you do, DO NOT spend $1300 on a sump!
The sump itself is pretty easy to build. Starting with a glass tank, you really only need to cut two pieces of acrylic for inside the sump, then another piece or two for the top. Then you just need a little silicon and a small level.
Of course that says nothing about the plumbing ... if you are not handy, I'd discourage you from taking that on unless you have someone locally who can help you do it right.
Of course that says nothing about the plumbing ... if you are not handy, I'd discourage you from taking that on unless you have someone locally who can help you do it right.
I took the measurements of the tank and had the glass company cut the glass when I bought it I think it was a dollar or two per cut they sanded the edges and I didn’t have to worry about breaking it. Acrylic is even easier I know Home Depot will cut wood I’m not sure they would cut the acrylic but you could check and they can cut it for you
No typo. It would cost $1300. $650 plus $350 shipping and then converted to Canadian dollars.
I hope to keep a Piraya Piranha and as they get messy I want to have good filtration so he can be happy and healthy and ultimately grow. Would you think 2 fx6's are enough? I am really leaning towards 2 fx6's because as I said I am really not handy and don't have anyone to show me what to do in person. Even over the phone it may be iffy. And when it comes to the plumbing of a sump, I just think I would be lost. I guess my biggest question is will two fx6's be detrimental to my fish? Stop it from growing etc? Or rather hinder growth and health? Would it not have clear water if I did weekly water changes??
I'll probably be an outlier here, but I think one would be enough. One FX6 is enough to handle the tank, and I know it is super big and messy, but that comes down to tank maintenance as much as filter. Basically, I'd rather clean one FX6 twice as often, as clean two FX6's half as much.
A full FX6 is not light. You can lift and carry one yourself, but I am getting older and lazier. Lugging two out in the driveway to clean out sounds like more work.
If you keep up with tank maintenance, the FX6 will be fine. Keep in mind, that just because you have two, doesn't mean you could be going all that much longer between cleanings. There is no guarantee that the filters are going to pick up half and half. If most of the detritus goes into one filter, you could be cleaning one out of two almost as often.
I had one FX6 with 120g, 2 Red Bay Snook, Convicts, Jewels, Dempseys, and some Clown Loaches. Wasn't bad to me. I wouldn't have bothered with another one (water was crystal clear, but I kept up with vacuuming). Unless you're starting with a full grown one, I'd start with one and just get another if it ever seems like you're falling behind on filtration.
With that said, I have absolutely no idea what I'm talking about and am completely and totally full of crap. So, take all that with a large grain of salt.
