I have an Aqua-Tech filter in a 10 gallon tank w/ 2 mollies, 2 tetras, and one betta. The problem is that it seems to create quite a current for the fishies. I've seen some of them struggle sometimes. There is no adjustment on the filter to make it less powerful, but I noticed that the pipe that takes the water into the filter can be loosened...and when I do that, I can basically adjust the power. I don't know if this is safe because I dont know how fast the water is being filtered when I adjust it. And its only a 2 week old aquarium so I'm sure there will be a few more spikes. But loosening the pipes a lil would cause less stress on the fish. It seems like a catch 22 to me, but I'm sure someone w/ more experience can answer this :).
2007-04-21 17:30:01 · 9 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Fish
To the question below, yes my power filter is made for a 10 gallon. It even says "ideal for a 10 gallon aquarium" on the top of the cover.
2007-04-21 17:42:36 · update #1
I uploaded a picture of what i can do:
http://img157.imageshack.us/my.php?image=loosenyx1.jpg
Hope it helps. By loosening, I mean pull, not twisting.
2007-04-21 18:00:47 · update #2
Also, its an aqua-TECH, not an aquaclear..
2007-04-21 18:01:55 · update #3
By "loosening", do you mean turning the uptake tube from side to side to increase or decrease the flow? That's acceptable to do - I've done it myself with old AquaClear filters - with some, this is the only way to adjust the flow rate.
ADDITION: Is there supposed to be a piece like a ring, washer, or plate that fits between the impeller and the uplift? Some of the filters have these as a way to adjust the flow, so there might be another piece to sit under the uptake. If not, you might be able to make something with a small piece of rigid plastic (like for undergravel filters) or larger diameter air tubing. I don't know how far you'll be able to lift it without disturbing the cover.
And I was just using the AquaClear as an example to find out what you meant by "loosening"- the older models of some of these also have no way to regulate the flow on the uptake tube - only by twisting. I don't use the Aqua Techs and the WalMart website doesn't show them for reference.
2007-04-21 17:52:05 · answer #1 · answered by copperhead 7 · 2⤊ 1⤋
I have an Aqueon Power Filter with a 100gph flow rate in my 10g tank. Out of all the filters I've had so far (and there have been many), it is the best because it is easy to clean, the filter cartridges are easy to change and come pre-packaged, and it is quiet. But it does get clogged kinda easily so that is the only downside. It is fine for me, but if I were to upgrade, I would get a filter with slightly higher GPH (like 125 gph which is usually for a 20 gal tank).
2016-04-01 01:11:19 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's NOT an aquaclear filter, Which are easily adjustable.
Cut a hole in a piece of coarse filter sponge and stick it over the intake tube where it draws the water into the filter, This will slow the flow a bit.
After a while the sponge will become Less pourus due to the dirt collecting in it and will slow the flow even more.
Rince the sponge LIGHTLY when it becomes too dirty.
The sponge will also act as an additional biological filter for your tank.
2007-04-22 02:07:36 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
To lower the flow comming out of the filter without adjusting the settings:
Make sure your water lvl is right up to the lip on the waterfall comming out fo the filter. That will help. Next if that is already done wrap a dollar store wommans hose around the mouth of the fitler where the water comes out, or any other material that would be safe for a aquarium, this will disperse the water.
2007-04-21 20:19:47 · answer #4 · answered by Cammy 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Copperhead and Ash are right. There should be some adjustment. Read your manual that came with it first. If that doesn't help here's something I did to my wife's 10 gallon guppy tank to slow the flow down. It hasn't caused any damage to the pump.
http://www.cichlid-forum.com/articles/diy_spongefilter.php
It's the same advice Ash gave about the sponge filter but lets you customize it instead of a store bought one. I tried lots of different thicknesses until I found one that slowed it to the flow level I wanted. Once you find what works for your tank cut 5 or six out for spares. The foam doesn't deteriorate so you can swap then out as they become dirty and rinse the old ones.
2007-04-21 22:36:00 · answer #5 · answered by swampwalker 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Aqua-Tech is sold only at Wal-Mart. It is an stripped down, older version of a Marineland filter, a bio-wheel can be added.
Personally, I don't think much of the filter, but I wouldn't mess with it and destroy the cycle either.
I'm sure the flow is not too much. Some fish I have like to swim against the currents of a large filter. I've got larger filters for 50 gallons in 29 gallon tanks. The fish seem to think the are swimming upstream. Keep in mind tropicals are not lake fish. They are from rivers and streams, slow moving, but moving.
2007-04-22 02:15:28 · answer #6 · answered by something_fishy 5 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I don't see a problem, the fish will adjust to the currents in the aquarium. some people even put submersible blower pumps in the tank to purposely cause strong currents throughout the tank and the fish are OK with this
2007-04-21 17:35:42 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
is your power filter for a 10 gallon? if not that is your problem and I do not recommend you loosening it.
sugey7394@yahoo
2007-04-21 17:39:32 · answer #8 · answered by suggie 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I deleted my former answer in realizing that you said aquatech not aquaclear. I guess I mixed them up as the names are similar. My mistake.
2007-04-21 17:59:25 · answer #9 · answered by Ash 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋