Aqua-Tech Filter Parts : Fluval FX5 External Canister Filter | Aqua ...
Fluval FX5 External Canister Filter Overviews The Fluval FX5 offers unparallel filtration power, maximum versatility and incredible control in fine-tuning water characteristics. The Fluval FX5 is a great filter but requires regular cleaning (every 1-3 months full filter clean). I suggest having tube cleaning brushes on hand to clean out the intake and output tubes (the ones in the filter – no need to remove the filter tubes from the filter to the aquarium). The Fluval FX5′s massive capacity and powerful integrated motor processes and recirculates 563 gallons of water every hour, enabling you to precisely manage water conditions for aquariums as large as 400 gallons. Instead, you can use a garden hose or similar very strong spray to clean the main filter sponges (around the edges of the filter) and the blue filter pads. - The media is expensive, but you can make your own rough filter pads (open hole filled black filter media), and carbon bags much cheaper than buying the premade media. The Fluval FX5 Filter siphons water and suspended debris through its clog-proof intake strainer, and then sends it through three levels of foam, which traps most particulate matter. As others have said, expect a tiny bit of water when you close the valves and remove the hoses to move the filter, which makes sense since there’s about 2″ between the valve shut off and the filter. I’ve had my Fluval FX5 since summer of 2008 and have been running it non-stop since then on a 125 gallon freshwater aquarium. The Fluval FX5 ensures a continuous flow of pure, precisely treated water. Fluval FX5 Smart Pump Technology ensures a quiet, efficient operation. Thin skinny fish like loaches may be sucked up into the filter if they can’t swim fast enough so you may want to put a breeding basket around it to keep them away but not hinder the filter intake. However, the rest you’ll want to buy real Fluval parts (search for best prices). And as others have said, it’s good to note that when you first turn it on it will run for 2 minutes then shut off for 2 minutes then will run for about 24 hours then shut off for two minutes and turn back on. It will do that every 24 hours to... Otherwise a sponge will clean the inside of the filter perfectly and a strong spray will clean everything else. I rinse the bio media in tank water and dechlorinated fresh water to get rid of any chunks of things. As water flows back into the aquarium the flared design of the adjustable output nozzle disperses it in multiple directions, agitating the water and creating currents that help break down wastes and prevent them from settling. However, you don’t need to replace all of the media each time you clean the filter (which can get really expensive). They’re alive and fine, but need to be moved to the main tank rather quickly so clean the filter every month. Don’t place plants or bubble makers anywhere near it or it will suck the plants against and in and the bubbles up (that will make your filter noisy). - Remember to open the valves once you have it hooked up to the hoses – before plugging it in. Yes I’ve plugged it in and forgotten to open the valves. The multi-stage system allows you to stack filter media in the precise combination of layers that will work best for your aquarium....