Showing posts with label aquarium for fish. Show all posts
Showing posts with label aquarium for fish. Show all posts

Monday, October 20, 2014

Aquaclear Activated Carbon Insert, 50-Gallon Aquariums, 3-Pack

Aquaclear Activated Carbon Insert, 50-Gallon Aquariums, 3-PackThe aqua clear insert activated carbon worked for my Aqua Clear 50. I like the longer change intervals on these bags. Its less work for me.

Years ago I used to use Aqua Clear filters & media and when I got back into having a aquarium, I tried something else. Big mistake. After three different types of over the tank filters, I realized there is only one filter I can trust to keep my tank crystal clear and is super easy to maintain. It's so nice to have separate filter media to change.

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one thing to keep in mind is that you will need to rinse this at least a few times (i rinse like 6x) as there is a lot of carbon dust initially. other than that, still loving my aquaclear 50, easy to use, don't have to switch out all the parts each cleaning and water change, can't complain. was recommended by my local fish guy and i agree, the best filter for the $.

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This is just like what you can get at the pet store, so the fact that it's cheaper makes it great! Definitely recommend. :)

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Love the filter this goes to, really helped keep my tank clean. Really nice to get this replacement filter parts in a three pack.

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Saturday, June 21, 2014

Aqueon Evolve 4 LED Aquarium Kit, 4 gallons

Aqueon Evolve 4 LED Aquarium Kit, 4 gallonsThis arrived from Petco (who also sells through Amazon) within 3 days of ordering.

Pluses:

+ LED lamp with both day and night settings and separate power cord. A benefit so that the light can be hooked up to its own timer.

+ a plastic cover that covers the tank, and a separate cover for the filter area

+ quiet water pump included

Negatives:

the included water pump at its lowest setting still creates a whirlwind of turbulence in the tank. Definitely not working out for my Betta fish. This really isn't a negative fish or coral that do require water movement so YMMV.

The accessories to my tank include a 7" tetra heater which nicely fits inside bank of the tank filter compartment and Eco-Complete substrate. Its not clear if the lumens on the LED is sufficient for plants with moderate demands but time will tell. I am considering either modifying the current water pump or replacing it with a lower flow unit.

This is a great small tank package for all the reasons listed above.

UPDATE Jan 19, 2012***

After much fiddling with the water pump intake and directing the return head to the heater, I have managed to find a calm water flow setting which seems to not upset my Betta. Since my last post, i have placed some marimo moss balls and dwarf hair grass in the tank. The LED seems to be bright enough to sustain plant life which is a good sign. Overall, i am very pleased with this tank.

I would first like to say that I have been keeping fish of all sorts for approximately eight years. I am knowledgeable in their habitats, housing requirements, and the sorts.

Despite other reviews I have seen for this product, it is actually not that bad. Especially for those that either have limited space or are just looking for that "Nano" aquarium.

Some may be skeptical about the lighting for this aquarium as well. As some may know, plants and live corals rely on a sufficient amount of light and light spectrums in order to properly live and grow. And even though LEDs are bright, expensive, and produce nice effects, not all are well suited for the job needed. I can assure you however, that the LEDs included for this kit are intense enough to allow my two live corals (whisker coral and candy cane coral) to continue to do very well. The only main issue, which other have indeed pointed out is the water flow rate coming from the output nozzle. There are two things you can do to adjust this flow and how it affects the water in your tank. One way is adjusting the flow rate via a little slider, located underneath the water pump motor, to a rate that you desire. I currently have mine set to a little under the max. Another way you can control the flow is adjusting the output nozzle itself. With this aquarium, you have the freedom to direct which direction the water flows out. Depending on what fish you have or the setup of your tank you can easily fix this to better suit your needs. I have aimed a little upwards to cause some nice surface tension which not only causes some disturbance on the top of the water, but also helps oxygenate the tank.

In conclusion I feel that this is definitively a great tank for new or experienced aquarium hobbyists. The sump on the back of the tank is a great barrier between what makes your tank run and what you actually want to see. And the LEDs are intense enough to support life that requires a certain amount of light. If you have any questions about my review or about your tank let me know.

I was also going to include a product review video, but due to the limits of video uploads onto Amazon, I have uploaded the video to YouTube. Since I am not allowed to post a link to the video, if you are indeed interested in a video review please search for AquariumHookup and you will find my product reviews.

Cheers -

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The tank looks real nice, the filter is built in and you can get a small heater in the back no problem. Fits perfectly in our ikea desk hole. The pump is full of dumb though. Way to strong like putting your fish in an endless toilet. Easy to fix though just drill a couple holes through the pump hose.

Initial Tank

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I purchased this tank recently, and it was exactly what I was looking for. I have it on a 2'X4' end table and it looks terrific. I don't have fish in it yet as I am allowing it to cycle which is highly recommended for new tanks. The LED lighting is beautiful, it replicates natural underwater lighting and provides enough light for plants. I plan on adding 5 or 6 glofish when cycling is complete.

I would give this tank five stars except it was difficult to find out some things about this aquarium on the Aqueon website. To save you the trouble I'll give you what I found out:

1. Although it is listed as a four gallon aquarium, it will only hold about 2 3/4 gallons of water with plants, a small decoration and about 4lbs. of gravel. Nowhere on the package or website will you find this information. I purchased distilled water in gallon jugs, and that is how much water I put in.

2. It does not come with a heater. Again, this info was not on the package or website. A heater will greatly expand your choices of plants and fish you can use in this aquarium. I purchased the Aqueon mini heater ($15) which fits nicely in the back which hides it from view. This is a nice feature.

3. It also doesn't come with a thermometer which is pretty much necessary to monitor your tank. Small tanks like this are susceptible to temperature fluctuations due to the small amount of water compared to surface area.

4. When I set up the tank, there is no instructions or illustrations of the pump. You must connect the tubes from the pump to the water outlet. I had to search youtube videos to do this correctly.

5. You will not be able to add as many fish as it shows on the packaging, which seems a bit deceptive (I know, it's advertising). 5 or 6 small fish will be the max.

Aside from these oversights (the website and instructions offer little help), this tank has many positives. It is easy to set up; having the pump, filter and heater hidden from view is great and the cover on top is easily accessible as the LED light pivots on its stand. The pump is strong, but I like this as it adds additional movement from the plants. I love the fact that you can (and should) use live plants. I have 2 small onion plants, 2 small frill plants and a small moss ball. It looks great and the motion is an added aesthetic benefit. It looks fantastic already without fish. The filter cartridges are super easy to use and replace. The pump is fairly quiet and you'll hardly notice it is running. The blue lights that simulate nighttime is a nice touch. They also include some fish food and water conditioner. The direction sheet is easy to follow and thorough, aside from the pump and tubing explanation omitted. I enjoy this aquarium already. I would recommend it to anyone, although be aware that a larger tank would be better for beginners as this will require some weekly maintenance.

I will update my review after I have added fish.

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What can I say, I am a fish addict? I originally had a little 2.5 gallon tank I picked up for $13 new on my desk at work, but it was so small it was difficult to put any filtration into let alone a decent heater.

The nice thing about this little tank is that it has the filter built in and it is SILENT. The only time it ever makes any noise is if a bubble or piece of sand finds its way into the filter. If you turn it on and it makes noise, you just need to rotate the pump a little bit so it isn't rubbing against the side.

The water flow IS a little bit strong, but that can be VERY easily fixed by placing the pump on the lowest setting and putting a small $0.99 filter bag over the outlet. With the filter bag, I can easily keep a little dwarf puffer without much fuss. If you decide to keep a salt water tank (not recommended, but possible) the high flow can be a very good thing.

The light is decent and attractive to look at. I have some chain swords and a marimo growing fairly well in the tank.

The only note that I can give is that the filter is sensitive to sand. If you plan on putting sand in the tank, put a filter bag over the vents of the pump to keep sand out of it.

This is a great little tank. All of my coworkers love it and come check out my fish from time to time.

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Saturday, May 10, 2014

Instant Ocean-Aquarium Systems AIO0048012 Duetto Suction Cups 3pk

Instant Ocean-Aquarium Systems AIO0048012 Duetto Suction Cups 3pkThe Duetto is an excellent in tank filter, but it's one weakness in my experience is that the suction cups wear out quicker than larger/more robust suction cups. The replacements were shipped quickly and are in place keeping the filter tight against the tank again.

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Wednesday, May 7, 2014

Perfecto Manufacturing APFR01049 30-Inch Marineland Plastic Glass Canopy Back Strip for Aquarium, S

Perfecto Manufacturing APFR01049 30-Inch Marineland Plastic Glass Canopy Back Strip for Aquarium, Small, ClearFit perfectly even though the glass canopy is not a Marineland. My fish are jumpers so its a necessity that I be able to cut it properly. This one was very easy to cut.

Just what I needed nothing more or less. Good. I really don't have much more to say only that it's hard sometimes to find exactly what you are looking for, but I found it. Thanks.

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Arrived faster then I thought it would. Works great with my Aquarium.

Read Best Reviews of Perfecto Manufacturing APFR01049 30-Inch Marineland Plastic Glass Canopy Back Strip for Aquarium, S Here

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Home On-The-Go Dog Crate in Black

Home On-The-Go Single Door Dog Crate E431, X-SmallPerfect size for our 10 year old Chocolate Lab. I got it for him to sleep in when we travel. Sturdy and easy to handle. Highly recommend for a big dog

Very well made with slid out tray and 3 latches on door. My Lab can stand and his head clears the top.

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Easy to assemble.

Way big enough for my 100 lb. chocolate lab. He loves all the extra room in this crate.

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After 1 week my 9 month puppy worked out how to open the 3 catches on the crate. The first time I thought it was my error. I should have trusted myself, the 2nd time she got out and tore up the fitted carpet. I now use cable wraps each time to ensure a closed door.

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Very cheaply constructed many of the bars were bent when received. Locks do not line up in order to properly close the door. Top metal latch is not soldered together properly. Product was identified as new but torn box; however much worse than that when received.

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Sunday, October 20, 2013

Silent Air X-2 Air Pump - 20 gallon - 1 outlet

Silent Air X-2 Air Pump - 20 gallon - 1 outletI purchased this product because I wanted a silent air pump and was disappointed with it for that reason.

I must have purchased this at Petco as I searched my orders and could not find it. However the pump I replaced it with, I did buy from Amazon.

I have a 20 gallon long aquarium. I hooked up this Penn-Plax Silent-Air X2 air pump to handle two air stones. It did the job but was noisy. I replaced it with a Marina 75 air pump(see my Amazon review)

and discovered that it was about 33% quieter while doing the same job.

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Have had this pump for a year, still works great. It's not absolutely silent, but it is still very quiet compared to other pumps. I had it on a shelf above my tank, several times knocked it off, doesn't phase it, still worked as well as the day I got it. Impressed enough I am buying the same brand pump for my new 60 gallon tank that is replacing my 20.

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Thursday, October 10, 2013

Petmate Walkabout Retractable Belted Leash for Dogs up to 110 Pounds, 16 Feet, Large, Blue

Petmate Walkabout Retractable Belted Leash for Dogs up to 110 Pounds, 16 Feet, Large, BlueI ordered the Petmate Walkabout retractable leash (pictured) to replace an older one that finally broke after 5 years. I specifically ordered this one because the description said it was the older model, just like the one I had, which was wonderful. The newer models have gotten awful reviews, mainly because they have issues retracting, and are not as strong as the older ones.

You can imagine my surprise and disappointment when I opened the package and found a newer model with a tape like lead, which IS NOT WHAT I ORDERED. Just from looking at it, I can see it is not even close to as strong as the other one. Since Amazon does not provide a customer service agent to talk to, I don't know exactly what to do. If I return, how do I know that my replacement will be like the picture and not another of the same newer version.

I would really appreciate any feedback from customers that have had this same experience or can lead me in the right direction. Thanks!

NOT HAPPY IN BOSTON

Bought one of these to replace a similar Walk About that used chord instead of the flat tape.

Although the tape seems to be fine the recoil spring is way too weak. This causes the tape to stay

out in the elongated position when it should be retracting. The dog then gets tangled in the tape.

Walk About should go back to the prior stronger spring in the older chord model.

Will not buy this brand again unless they make the spring retractor is stronger!

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While I did not purchase this leash online here, I bought it at a local commercial store. This is BY FAR the worst leash I have ever owned. It is supremely irritating on a walk, where frankly the retractable capabilities of this leash are questionable AT BEST. My dog is constantly getting all tangled now, because the leash, when it retracts, does so at a super slow rate. In fact, now that it has gotten chilly, to downright cold, the leash retraction has gotten even worse if that is possible. I would never recommend this leash to anyone else, nor will I ever purchase from this brand again. If I could have given this leash 0 stars, I would have.

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I purchased this because the old one broke. The older version of this leash was much sturdier. This new version, though lighter, does not have as thick a cord and also the "retracting" does not work as well....somehow it's slower. But all in all it is a very acceptable leash to walk your dog with and seems very capable of controlling my 65lb lab.

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Monday, September 9, 2013

Tetra Anti-Algae Blocks for fountains, 6-Block

Tetra Anti-Algae Blocks for fountains, 6-BlockThe blocks kept the algae away for about two weeks in a clean fountain, but after than, even though I followed directions, the algae formed. They may have kept it at bay a week or two longer than other products, but in the end, I've found nothing to deal with algae effectively in residential fountains.

I have tried several products to take care of algae build-up in our fountain and nothing works as well as these blocks! One block keeps it clean for weeks and by regularly putting them in, the fountain stays algae free for months!! I highly recommend them.

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This is a great product for our fountain. It was recommended to me by the fountain company. It keep our water clear.

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These fountain tablets as sent were way beyond their package expiration date but I tried them anyway. They were rock hard and basically did not melt in the water but sat there like a small white puck on the bottom doing nothing. The water turned an ugly shade of green as time went on. Went to the pool store and got some algae-cide and it worked fine. Not recommended for whatever reason but they don't work.

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This product states right on the packaging NOT SAFE for fish or pets. That preety much made it useless . I would be scared to even use it in a fountain because of birds. It even goes as far to tell you it can contaminate run off water. Oh well i am getting use to the green pond water .

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Wednesday, August 28, 2013

Fluval 4 Plus Foam Insert, 4-Pack

Fluval 4 Plus Foam Insert, 4-PackThis is simply a foam filter that removes most refuse from the water. It stays operational for a fair amount of time considering the volume and number of critters. While other filters are more effective, here you get what you pay for: a simple, easy to clean filter that gets rid of most of the "yucks".

I was pleased to find this product because I drove all around my town to different pet stores looking for it. It allowed me to get my aquarium back up in no time.

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Works well. The filter itself has become not useful for the purpose. And the foams seem to go out pretty fast. Just wished they lasted a little longer. Probably gonna look into buying a new filter for my water turtle

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I find that these work better if replaced after every tank cleaning. (I have a turtle, and because the filter is so powerful, I wind up cleaning his tank maybe once a month.) So far I've reused the sponges twice, and I notice that the tank gets dirtier sooner. So yeah, definitely replace these and they do a spectacular job!

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I've used several filtration units for my turtle tank and the Fluval Plus4 is definitely the best so far. The foam pads can be used (if cleaned regularly)for a little over two months and will with a little chemical aid keep the water smelling mostly like water. When supplemented by a water polishing(poly) or carbon pad, the maintenance level rises but the water clarity improves very much. Short of a long sand and gravel runoff and recirculating into a very big tank,nothing has kept my turtles' water as clean with bi-weekly or longer gaps between filter washing.(weekly rinsing is the recommended interval for maximum efficiency and pump life. But, who has the time?)

The filters will clog completely if ignored too long, but if your aquatic reptiles are IN your home, you probably already know that they will motivate you to clean the filter some time before the plus4 will clog completely. I cannot say that about any of the other brands of filter products I have used.

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Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Finnex 200-Watt Hang-On Electronic Controller Aquarium Heater, Titanium Tube, 60 to 80-Gallon

Finnex 200-Watt Hang-On Electronic Controller Aquarium Heater, Titanium Tube, 60 to 80-GallonThis aquarium heater has been in place and working for several months. I have been very happy with its performance to date. It gives me confidence in lowering my houses heat seating during the day while at work in the winter months. It would be nice if it had some feed back on the actual water temp, a digital read out or something. It currently has two lights, a green one to indicate it is working, and a red one that indicates when the heat element is actually on. I like this type heater especially though for its greater resistance to breaking as opposed to the glass tube models.

titanium is the way to go very,very acurrate a must have for saltwater aquarium with temp control for your tank

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I bought and tried some cheap heaters with good reviews and everyone was junk, almost lost my fish a couple of times, this heater is awesome, unbreakable, and is within 2 degrees plus or minus, it does tank some time to heat a 55 gallon tank but once set, it is set it and forget it, day or night its dead on, no more worries or getting up all night to check temps, dont buy the cheap junk, put out the few extra dollars for this unit and be done with it, thank you for a great product.

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The school's turtles are very much happier than they were before the heater! If we implement another turtle tank I will definitely put one of these in!

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works great nice item i bought 4 of umm and they work perfect I would by again if i had to

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Monday, August 19, 2013

Como Suction Cup Mounted White 18 LEDs Bar Fish Tank Aquarium Submersible Lamp Light

Como Suction Cup Mounted White 18 LEDs Bar Fish Tank Aquarium Submersible Lamp LightWas a little smaller than I figured it would be but I put it to work and it does make my tank a little brighter. I am looking to add a few more to my tank in the future. Have only had it less than a week so I cant say how long it is going to last it does look like it is made well. It did not take a long time to come in would recommend to a friend but wiukd say to use on a 10 gallon tank

Tuesday, July 30, 2013

Hagen Fluval External Power Filter Pre-Filter Media

Hagen Fluval External Power Filter Pre-Filter MediaGreat media to have in my fluval fx5 canister filter. would recommend to anyone to buy this item. Works great

I purchased for my FX5 works great. I would recommend to get 2 boxes for that filter. I run these on bottom, bio balls in center, and polishing pad on top.

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When i first purchased 2 fx5, this was one of the recommended product to buy with along with the bio-max. Let me say that you don't need this item, as its a complete waste of money and space in your fx5. There are way more better media than this. Many people i have search on the the web have opt to have their fx5 loaded with nothing but bio-media.

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Saturday, June 29, 2013

Hagen Marina 360-Degree Aquarium Starter Kit

Hagen Marina 360-Degree Aquarium Starter KitThis is a nice little desktop tank perfect for a betta or some small shrimp. It's very sleek and modern looking and is basically silent when the filter is running. I love that all of the essential fish tank equipment (filter, heater, lights) are all neatly enclosed in the white pillar in the back. It's really nice that there's nothing ugly distracting from my pretty aquarium set-up. It looks awesome with the lights on as well. Very eyecatching.

As the previous reviewer said, it's sometimes hard to see through the rounded sides as it gets a bit distorted but overall I really like the "360"-ness of it. It's cool that I can see my fish no matter what side of the tank I'm looking at. I think it's a nice effect and adds to the sleek look of the tank as well.

This is my first fish tank and I found it very easy to set up as the directions with the tank were very helpful (even gives general fishkeeping troubleshooting tips). It includes the tank, filter (with cartridges), LED lights (white and blue), a section behind the cartridges where a Marina heater fits nicely, as well as some water conditioner and "cycle starter" for getting the tank up and running. All you need to get are the decorations and food (and of course the fish!)

If you would like to see more details just search for the model name on youtube. There are a couple of nice videos and reviews there that I found helpful.

Great tank! I'm very happy with this purchase.

Don't buy it. There is no way to get replacement bio filter cartridges.I have searched many local pet stores and the internet. They only sell you the wrong size which won't fit.Hagen site lists no replacement cartridges for the 360.

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I agree ilke the tank a lot but can't figure out which is the right filter cartridge. The aquarium shop that sold me the tank also sold me some Marina cartridges, but they don't fit the way those that came with the tank kit did. I do like the tank, though. The filter is very quiet and the tank is pretty.

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Great tank if you have the right place for it. Because it's round viewing from some angles distorts what you're looking at. I'm still looking for the right replacement filter cartridge because the filter number is not listed anywhere.

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