Would this work?

[dragonfish]

Could you take a canister filter, like an xp3, fill it with nothing but different sized sponges for mechanical filtration, then run the outflow to a sump filled with just bio media. Then use a pump to return to the tank. Lets here from the filter experts.

 

[merc123]

You could, but you would need a pump that will return closely to the same GPH of the XP3. You could cause an underflow or overflow problem. Why not just run the 1 XP3 with mechanical and bio filtration? I have 2 on my 125 and they work fine.

 

[dmopar74]

unless the pumps pumped EXACTLY the same gph all the time, including when the can would slow down due to clogging media? no way! you would either have a major flood or burned up pumps from running dry.

 

[merc123]

Also, how come you aren't just using 2 pumps. One to pump water down to the sump and one to pump water back up? Just seems like a lot of work for things that already exist that are more efficient.

 

[dmopar74]

Also, how come you aren't just using 2 pumps. One to pump water down to the sump and one to pump water back up? Just seems like a lot of work for things that already exist that are more efficient.

water gets to sumps from overflows not an extra pump, or else you end up with the same prob as i mentioned b4

 

[merc123]

Yep, you're right.

 

[dmopar74]