Showing posts with label live aquarium. Show all posts
Showing posts with label live aquarium. Show all posts

Monday, October 27, 2014

Hagen 12-Pack Fluval U4 Poly/Carbon Cartridge Aquarium Water Filter

Hagen 12-Pack Fluval U4 Poly/Carbon Cartridge Aquarium Water FilterThis is really a great deal. What a way to save in the long run. I replace both filters twice a week when I clean my tank. It's been handy to have a stockpile onhand.

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Tuesday, October 21, 2014

Tetra Whisper Power Filter 60, 60-Gallon

Tetra Whisper Power Filter 60, 60-GallonI have a 65 gallon tank which replaced a 20 I had owned for 3 years. I had the appropriate Whisper filter on that one so I got the larger version for this one. There is no such thing as a silent filter (unless it is in another room) but the whisper does a good job of keep noise to a minimu. If you have your water level right, you do not hear the waterfall effect that others have addressed.

Also, I replaced the additional media in the filter with a better mesh to control phosphates and (hopefully) cut down on algae, and there was plenty of room for this material along with the bags and charcoal.

I had looked at the more expensive cylinder filters but after assessing the cleaning problems, the leaking problems and the overall work involved, I chose to stick with the Whisper and spend my $$ on new fish and decorations!

Works great. Handy slide in filter cartridges for easy and quick changes. Adjustable flow rate. Extra tubing for water intake inside tank. Super quiet! A quality product.

Buy Tetra Whisper Power Filter 60, 60-Gallon Now

I have owned a whisper filter in the past and find them a superior product. So I was not hesitant to buy this one. The whisper does work better than most standard filter systems that come with aquariums these days. So thats why after 1 month I ditched the Aqueon filter system that came with the tank I purchased and switched to the Whisper filter. The only thing I would say that is negative is the sound... it isn't a whisper at all.. more like a water fall in your house. So if you find the sound of running water irritating this isn't the system for you. I find it soothing so it isn't a problem.

Read Best Reviews of Tetra Whisper Power Filter 60, 60-Gallon Here

I've been using Whisper PFs for all my aquariums for over 20yrs and have never been disappointed by them. As with any filtration, you should always get a filter that's rated higher than what you need -for example, if you have a 60 gallon aquarium, the filter's MINIMUM GPH (gallons per hour) rating should be no less than 50 GPH -because all filters lose filtering capacity over time as media gets dirty and/or loses effectiveness. Aquariums housing particularly messy and/or big fish need filters that can turn the water volume over at least 3x per hour -for example, a 60 gallon Goldfish aquarium needs a filter capable of no less than 180 GPH. It's for this reason that people have issues with filters not keep their aquariums clean.

Whisper PFs are exceptional! Very well constructed and most are very quiet. The Whisper 60 is the biggest model and is also the noisiest of the bunch. They're not insufferable, though, but you can hear them working compared to their smaller cousins. Usually the noise is caused by impeller assemblies not being seated properly and/or air being trapped in the impeller compartment. Should ALWAYS add the impeller assembly into the motor housing after adding water to that compartment so air doesn't get trapped inside. The cover tends to rattled from the vibration generated by the motor, but putting a rock or something like that on top of it eliminates that issue.

The Whisper 60 has a 2 compartment system which makes these filters extremely versatile! Using the filter pouches, you can add any media you want. I always keep one side stuffed with blue bonded media and sponge type media for beneficial bacterial to take on biological filtration which keeps the water crystal clear even with no chemical/mechanical media in use. The other compartment is used for chemical and mechanical filtration. Keep in mind that carbon by itself isn't 100% effective in keeping aquariums clean, so the carbon packets that come with the filter media for these filters isn't particularly useful -especially since there is so little of it. I used PhosPure & Sea Gel and have also used Diamond Blend in the past for media.

To sum up, these are excellent filters and pretty quiet when setup & maintained properly. I've had 5 of these 60's so far and never had an issue with them. I also have the Junior and 30 model in operation currently. My 300+ gallon planted Goldfish aquarium has two of these 60s keeping it crystal clean.

Want Tetra Whisper Power Filter 60, 60-Gallon Discount?

This filter is great!! I just got it set up and running on my 60 gallon tank. I was worried it would be loud but those poor reviews turned out to be just like any other aquarium advice I see on the internet.. This is really a whisper, the filter is heavenly quiet. I am one of those people that will be driven nuts by a clicking powerhead or a vibration against the side of the tank. This thing is silent!!! If it sounds like a waterfall, its because the water is falling in.. RAISE YOUR WATER LEVEL...and also... 2+2=4

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Sunday, October 19, 2014

Aqueon Flex LED Aquarium Bubble Wand, 21-Inch, White

Aqueon Flex LED Aquarium Bubble Wand, 21-Inch, WhiteThe product came in the estimated range and was what we wanted. It produces just enough bubbles and was pretty easy to install.

I like the look of the LED lights, and the bubble wall, but I had a fish die already from this, as it got caught between the wand and the glass back of the tank. (My wand is suction cup'ed to the back wall.) The other fish seem to not have issue with it, so maybe it was the stupid fish of the group, maybe it was just hiding, i dunno.

Buy Aqueon Flex LED Aquarium Bubble Wand, 21-Inch, White Now

This item looks amazing in my tank. I love it! I have a 120 gallon tank, and like it so much, I ordered 2 more to go along the whole backside of my tank! I have had so many compliments on it!!

Read Best Reviews of Aqueon Flex LED Aquarium Bubble Wand, 21-Inch, White Here

I bought this and was thrilled. the lights looked wonderful woven around my plants and ornaments. I never could get even bubble flow. there was always too many at the hook up and not enough at the end. but I was willing to overlook that because the lights alone were great. jump to less than a month after installation, I plug it in, and the lights flicker and die. I checked the connections and all is well. I finally get frustrated and remove the whole thing to find every light burnt out with reddish, what I assume to be rust, seeping out from them. I am much less than thrilled with this product now.

Want Aqueon Flex LED Aquarium Bubble Wand, 21-Inch, White Discount?

Over the past 40 years of keeping fish I've learned that for myself one of the greatest joys is of aquascaping. For years I had fish tanks that looked like well, fish tanks. Those dreadful backgrounds of other fish tanks, artificial plants and so on.

But like any hobby as long as the interest is there things tend to evolve and change. That said I've found one of the most inexpensive and creative way to make subtle to dramatic changes to most any tank is by using up lighting as the old saying goes "lighting is everything"

When Marineland came out with their LED wands I had them in many tanks in different numbers and colors, mostly the Lunar blue and white. The wands were just ok as they have a tendency to release and float to the top and the LED bulbs are quite dim. Enter the ViaAqua wands these were much better. They're weighted and have stronger suction cups so they stay put, the LED bulbs are brighter but the air tube is rather weak and thin and like the Marineland they clog easy.

When I came across these bendable LED air wands by Aqueon I could just imagine the possibilities, circles, half circles, quarter moon. Building multi layered air columns and so on. My hunch was right and these wands are sensational.

The build quality is the best yet so far the main tube is stronger so you can feel free to bend these into virtually any shape you like. The outflow is generous and creates a wall of bubbles in an even beautiful flow.

The main housing is a pliable rubber and each LED is incredibly bright, in fact a little too bright. It's easy too adjust this by adding a lamp dimmer if you want a nice range of adjustment to the brightness. I would say this applies really only to the white as the Lunar blue has a much more softer hue and is closer to a true Lunar blue as you would find with over head LED lighting systems that offer this feature.

Bending these around your tank decor adds tons of visual appeal as well as great extra oxygen via the increased aeration one of the best things you can do for your fish.

I'm running a bunch of these in different sized tanks from 55's to 125 and up and find them to be a wonderful addition to every single one of them. I think any hobbyist will love these.

5 Fins Up!

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Thursday, October 16, 2014

Sunken Gardens Car Wreck / Medium

Sunken Gardens Car Wreck / MediumWe have all seen sunken boats, ships, even submarines and they're cool.. if you're not a snobby naturalist. The same holds true for a sunken car, its just cool. The plants "growing" on the car are okay, not the best but not a deal breaker.

Wednesday, October 1, 2014

Finnex 150-Watt Hang-On Digital Controller Aquarium Heater, Titanium Tube, 30 to 60-Gallon

Finnex 150-Watt Hang-On Digital Controller Aquarium Heater, Titanium Tube, 30 to 60-GallonThis heater is all you'd expect from Finnex. it features a sleek design, and a super simple set up. Thanks guys you've pull it off again.

Ray.

I am not an expert on aquariums but I have owned a few heaters over the years. This seems to be one of the best. You can adjust it without taking it out of the tank or getting your hands wet. It also gives a digital reading of the current temp. This is good because my last heater died and I didn't know, I only noticed it because my fish were very lethargic. I can't comment on it's durability I have only had it a week, but I am hopeful and so far very happy.

Buy Finnex 150-Watt Hang-On Digital Controller Aquarium Heater, Titanium Tube, 30 to 60-Gallon Now

The unit is fairly high output for its size and achieves a high temperature. I positioned mine near the output of a UV filter outflow to raise the efficiency and prevent high temperatures. This unit replaced a digital thermometer and submersible heater. I did have to find a location that allowed for hiding the shiny metal heating element...

Read Best Reviews of Finnex 150-Watt Hang-On Digital Controller Aquarium Heater, Titanium Tube, 30 to 60-Gallon Here

Purchased this heater as I've been able to crack 2 glass ones now in the past year... I've had a titanium in the past, gave that tank set up away quite some time ago and its still going!

This one seems to be working well, compared temp setting with a digital laser shooter type thermometer and unit was right on par with that with maybe 1 degree difference at various times. So far so good... I like it.

Well, its now June 2011 and I have been through two of these heaters and do not recommend them at all. Unit looks great as mentioned by others, nice red digital display to read temp from across the room, seemed to work well for a while.. then it stopped heating...fish started complaining it was cold, etc...

I contacted the seller (coral aquatics) and even though I was out of my warranty time period they were nice enough to tell me to send it in.. They turned the repaired heater around to me in a few days which was great and I used it again for maybe 2 months or so same problem. No heat.

I tried them again, but being this far out of purchase I cant blame them for not wanting to look at this thing.. truth is, I really don't care to keep doing battle with this heater and decided on a JBJ True Temp unit as also mentioned in the previous review.. I've tried several glass heaters in the mean-time with not much luck. Most recently, a Ehiem Jager 150w model.... read the reviews, available from the local shop cant get my 50g tank above 72... Ugh... Thermometers are another story for another review, Im now using a digital laser shooter type unit as I wrote above to get more accurate readings.

Bottom line, do as others have written and save yourself from this headache of a heater... There is very little quality with this one.

Want Finnex 150-Watt Hang-On Digital Controller Aquarium Heater, Titanium Tube, 30 to 60-Gallon Discount?

This product looks tiny, but does an amazing job. Love that it has its own controls out side of the tank

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Tuesday, September 23, 2014

Aqua Ultraviolet AAV30044 Transformer for Aquarium, 40-watt, Black

Aqua Ultraviolet AAV30044 Transformer for Aquarium, 40-watt, BlackThis is the 3rd. one I had to replace do to water leaking into the the unit. The cord grip seals at the cord but around the outside where the cord enters the transformer it allows water to get in. The transformer is potted with a black tar mixture, but it is poorly done and water gets into the electronics and shorts it out. At about $100.00 each this becomes expensive. Buying just the raw transformer means you have to make some kind of container to put it in. Since this option still costs about $65 you don't save very much. If I could buy the raw transformer for around $20 (which is all it should cost), then it would pay to make a container to put it in. For five years I've been using an old Gamma transformer by Current USA but it seems that it is no longer made.

I do like this 40W Replacement Transformer as it is easy to replace existing bad-order transformers such as my 120W Aqua UV system which contained a three wire system that went from my lamp holder containing three 40W lamps up to the 120W transformer box. I have replaced the 120W transformer twice, replaced the wiring harness twice in the previous 20 years then decided on going the single 40W transformer route which was about six years ago. I had the 120W Aqua UV system since 1984. I also have a small pond containing a 40W Aqua UV system that I also use this type of a transformer which gave me the idea of using the single 40W replacement transformer.

Buy Aqua Ultraviolet AAV30044 Transformer for Aquarium, 40-watt, Black Now

I used to have four transformers that were connected to one spider shaped configuration that would tear at its plastic encasings (exposed wires) and was a pain in the neck to loosen and take off to clean the quartz sleeves and UV lights. This configuration where each transformer is independently plugged into the power source and separated from an attachment that connected all to one power source makes it simple to disconnect and it is "cleaner" looking cosmetically. If one transformer goes down you can replace it and not worry how the others are affected by its performance since they are all plugged into power source separately. I would highly recommend this product for your pond needs. I bought a large metal fuse box to enclose all of them to protect them from weather elements although they are made weather-proof already, I wanted to consolidate the tidiness of the cords. EJ Orange County, CA

Read Best Reviews of Aqua Ultraviolet AAV30044 Transformer for Aquarium, 40-watt, Black Here

Thursday, September 11, 2014

Aquarium Gravel Cleaner Syphon Siphon Vacuum Fish Tank

Aquarium Gravel Cleaner Syphon Siphon Vacuum Fish TankI bought this because I wanted to clean my little 10 gallon aquarium. I've used it twice now, and while it added water very well, I did not find it at all satisfactory in siphoning out to clean the gravel. And by the way, I am an experienced aquarium owner. Since the main thing I wanted it for was cleaning, it was a disappointment to me. Hence, 2 stars.

Tuesday, August 5, 2014

EHEIM Fine Filter Pad (White) for Classic External Filter 2215 (3 Pieces)

EHEIM Fine Filter Pad for Classic External Filter 2215I learned on an aquarium forum that these fluval filters are a perfect substitute:

Fluval FX5 Fine Filter Polishing Pad 3-Pack

I like my 2215 canister, and the eheim filter pad is very good. However the Fluval pad is also high quality, identical size, and far less expensive.

These do a fabulous job on my tank. helps keep the water crystal clear. Shipping was super fast WOW!!! I will order them again

Buy EHEIM Fine Filter Pad (White) for Classic External Filter 2215 (3 Pieces) Now

Well...I bought this to polish my water as I can't find any other way to get this kind of pad. This pad are very good and compact and well made. But it only comes in 3 pack and won't last long when I do my 3 month maintances.

I bought a pack and later never bought them again cause I found a much better and money saving rolls of filter floss almost like this which I have not even done using.

Read Best Reviews of EHEIM Fine Filter Pad (White) for Classic External Filter 2215 (3 Pieces) Here

Thursday, July 24, 2014

Boyd Enterprises ABE16744 Chemipure Grande Filter Media, 40-Ounce

Boyd Enterprises ABE16744 Chemipure Grande Filter Media, 40-OunceIn our aquarium hobby 'seeing' is believing !

I use the 'Grande' with the Eheim 2080 on a 150 gallon

The results are outstanding, try it for yourself.

I drop this prebagged media (after a good rinse) into a canister filter and it keeps my tanks crystal clear for ~4-6 months depending on the bio load. This Grande size is great for big tanks like my 150.

Buy Boyd Enterprises ABE16744 Chemipure Grande Filter Media, 40-Ounce Now

Saturday, June 28, 2014

JBJ 24 Gallon Nano-Cube Deluxe Aquarium 2X36W Compact Fluorescents & LED Moonlights

JBJ 24 Gallon Nano-Cube Deluxe Aquarium 2X36W Compact Fluorescents & LED MoonlightsI've purchased two of these over the course of 7 years. I replaced the first one I had after 6 years because the remote ballast died and it was more economical to buy a new tank than just a new hood. (JBJ swapped ballasts after some time which required a purchase of both the ballast and hood for older tanks.)

For a saltwater setup, this all-in-one tank is great. You can find third-party nano accessories (protein skimmer, uv light, etc.) and the lighting configuration makes for a bright, beautiful display. I've had zero leakage problems with both my original saltwater tank and the new replacement freshwater setup. The reason I knocked off a star is because replacement parts for the unit (light bulbs, pumps, and if necessary hoods), are not cheap. The good news is that it is unlikely you will have to replace these for some time.

If you're just starting out or are experienced and want a clean nano setup, this is a great tank. Highly recommend.

Edit: Note that if you want to use this tank for freshwater setups, you should swap the bulbs out for something with less intensity, like LED striplights.

This is a great product for someone wanting to start a saltwater fish tank comes with almost everything you need for basic hardware and is compact to fit in most places in your home while still allowing maximum space within to aqua scape with whatever you want

Buy JBJ 24 Gallon Nano-Cube Deluxe Aquarium 2X36W Compact Fluorescents & LED Moonlights Now

excellent product had for a year and doing great can grow sps and soft coral 5 fish is the max

Read Best Reviews of JBJ 24 Gallon Nano-Cube Deluxe Aquarium 2X36W Compact Fluorescents & LED Moonlights Here

I had this tank for about 4 months when it cracked and leaked rushing water all over my floor. It cracked along the front curve of the tank from top to bottom for no reason whatsoever, and at 1 am! Luckily, it gives you a loud glass breaking pop when it breaks save yourself a headache and money and forget nano tanksespecially this jbj model. This is my first review of a product, I had to write a review of this tank since it was a total catastrophe, and my wood floors will never be the same.

Want JBJ 24 Gallon Nano-Cube Deluxe Aquarium 2X36W Compact Fluorescents & LED Moonlights Discount?

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Odyssea 24" T5 HO Quad Aquarium Light Fluorescent Hood Fixture w/4 LED - Plant 4x24W

Odyssea 24' T5 HO Quad Aquarium Light Fluorescent Hood Fixture w/4 LED - Plant 4x24WIt doesn't measure 24" with the stand/legs factored in, it's more around 26".

The fixture itself is 24", but with the leg-stands, on a 24" wide tank (measuring from lid lip to lid lip, so, a 20 gallon tank), it will NOT stand on the edge of the tank with the legs included, even if they're pushed all the way in, and will need to be hung or modified (we added small wood boards to the legs to give it more of a 'platform' so it would sit properly) if you don't want it directly on the glass.

The light itself is sleek and bright, as one would expect from T5 lighting.

It comes with two ballasts, each one requiring an outlet spot obviously, so keep that in mind in terms of how many outlets you have free near your tank.

Good lighting. i haven't noticed eny excessive heat comeing from it. don't like that it comes with two power cords. thus needing extra plug ins.they r hard to hide considering. the size of the power packs r quite large. Ill be on the look out for something a little less space consuming . also we used it on our 20 gall wich the light did not fit. so u have it riged up to fit

Buy Odyssea 24" T5 HO Quad Aquarium Light Fluorescent Hood Fixture w/4 LED - Plant 4x24W Now

Friday, April 25, 2014

Zoo Med betta House 2 Gallon Television Style White

Zoo Med betta House 2 Gallon Television Style WhiteThis is a very cute tank and a great size, but mine has a small, very steady leak on the bottom. I'm hoping I can patch it up with some aquarium sealant but I was very disappointed to set the whole thing up and then notice a very slow drip around the base. It may just be a fluke in mine because I own a 1 gallon version of the rectangle shape Zoo Med betta house and have never had a problem with it, but be sure to test the tank thoroughly with just water in it before you go through the trouble of setting it up just to have to disassemble it again.

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Wednesday, April 9, 2014

API Nexx Filter

API Nexx FilterJust set this up 2 days ago with 1 extension filter. Using it on a 90 gallon freshwater tank. There are both good things and bad so far.

The Good:

* Everything you need to set it up is included in the box.

* It's very quiet running, you have to really listen to hear the sound of the water movement.

* It has a strong current.

* Was easy to figure out how to take the media baskets out and fill the top section with our choice of media. (You will need mesh bags if you use anything with pieces under 1 1/2in long)

The Bad:

* If you don't put the filters on the bases just right, they will Leak.

* The directions on how to hook the filter up are pictorial only. And don't always make lots of sense. They're also hidden inside the longer box inside the main one.

* Some of the clamps they give you are pretty cheap feeling, so we may need to replace them at some point soon.

* The part of the filter that sits inside the tank, doesn't lock into the holder. We had to rubber-band it in place or the fish keep knocking it out/off. (We have large fish, so this may not be an issue you have.)

So far, I'm liking it, but it was very disconcerting to notice about 3 hours after setting it all up that the water level in the tank was lower than it had been. We checked to make sure the tank wasn't leaking, and then realized the leak was coming from the filters! They were locked in, when we lifted up on the handle, the entire unit came off the floor. However it must have been off by a little bit as water was streaming slowly between the base and the filter case. Unlocking it and rocking it back and forth while pressing down seemed to help. But ultimately we had to take it completely off a few times and put it back before it apparently locked down correctly. After that, no leaks. But you may wish to have a flashlight near you for a bit after putting this together to check for leaks just in case.

Over-all, it seems to be a good filter, and it's easy to take apart which is what we needed. You can use other kinds of media, not just what they recommend, but you'll need filter bags as the holes in the top of the compartments are fairly large and small particles may fall out and clog things up. To get into the media compartment, lift out the long media basket thing by the handle. Push in on the blue tabs on the sides, and pull, the top should pop off leaving you with the yellow basket attached to the long plastic bits the carbon slides over. The basket will come off those with a good tug, and then everything snaps back into place.

What's not clear from the pictures online (or on the box, or the description) is that this filter consists of two major components. The first is the canister which includes the base, container and media baskets (two of them, one on each side.) The second is the water pump -it's essentially a small pond pump that mounds via suction cups inside your aquarium which pushes water via the included hoses to the canister, and drives enough pressure to return the water to the tank on the other side of the loop.

Pro:

Quite possibly this is the quietest filter system I've (n)ever heard. The air pump driving the tanks water feature is far louder than this canister system (and it's not all that bad.)

Had no issues with water leakage at all, anywhere in the system. Possible that I cheated a bit to avoid the problem mentioned by the previous reviewer. Used a small amount of divers pure silicone grease on all the "O" rings and mating gaskets during assembly.

Flow rate at default setting seems just about perfect for a 40Gal tank.

Con:

The dial on the water pump to adjust flow will not turn I've applied pretty much as much force as I think a plastic dial can take before breaking. No dice. No idea what the different settings might mean for water flow.

The suction cups for the pump mount don't hold the pump in place very well. I consider this a seriously lazy design flaw. There's no reason the manufacturer couldn't have gone with a clip in design of some sort. And I don't have large fish knocking it about . . . slowly over time that pump wants to wander out of the mount.

The media baskets are very limited the bottom part is nothing more than a hollow square cage/bracket to hold the four sided pre-charged filter packets. The top part is very tiny for ceramic or plastic bio-media. The included bio-media stars do not adequately load even that small space, you might need or want more.

I'm thinking of doing a slight mod to this thing to increase the bio-filtration, as well as the use of mesh bags to allow me to use bulk carbon or other filtration materials. If it goes well will try to remember to update this review.

Update: No mods required. API sells a pair of insert foam parts that go into the bottom of each canister. Look for "API NEXX FOAM 30 PPI." What's important to know about these is they should NOT be used at the same time as the pre-shaped filter cartridges and four sided caddies. It's not really clear from the instructions (although there is a single small picture that shows the swap) but you need to remove the caddy/cage plastic part from the top compartments before using the foam.

Foam goes into the very bottom of both compartments. Your bagged media goes on top of that, then the disk shaped compartment for the bio-stars on top of the bags, and finally the lids. On the truly horrible pictogram documentation look specifically at section C, 10b for the one and only reference to how this looks. Be very sure that the bagged media is lose enough to allow good water flow, and that it does not require you to tamp down the top baskets to put on the lids.

WARNING: If you try to use the foam inserts and fail to remove the four sided caddy this canister will NOT seal properly and may spray water from the top of the lids.

Buy API Nexx Filter Now

I setup the filter a couple of days ago for my 20 gallon tank. I needed a filter that could expand capacity since I'm planning on moving my juvenile Axolotls to a large tank once they get a bit bigger. I also needed to hook up to an Aquarium Chiller: Aqua Euro USA Max Chill Aquarium Chiller.

The Good:

*Very intuitive and easy to setup, given the pictorial instructions.

*Included the correct sized tubing for use with my Chiller.

*Includes a little extra piping for extending the lead to the pump should you need to place it further down inside the tank.

*The pump is SUPER quiet, at least compared to my last filter that hangs on the back of the tank.

*Includes more than enough suction cups for the pipes and such.

*I noticed a couple of people complained about the pump not fitting properly into the clip that suction cups to the tank wall. The instructions are very unclear, but they show that the pump also is suction cupped to the clip itself, making a very secure hold for it.

*I LOVE the feature that allows you to change the filters without needing to turn off the pump, it just diverts the flow while you change the filter media!

The Bad:

*The pictorial instructions were a bit hard to follow at times

*Dosen't leave my tank "crystal clear" like it advertised, but that may be due to the phosphates in my planted aquarium.

*The pump's flow rate is NOT ADJUSTABLE. It has a knob for it, but its been glued to be fully open or something. The current is pretty strong which I need to avoid for my type of fish. Looks like I'll be investing in a spray bar or something...

Read Best Reviews of API Nexx Filter Here

I have been running this filter for a year now on a 55 gallon tank. Works great! Make sure you turn the pump off while you change out the filter. There is a video out there showing the pump pluged in while change out the filter. Dont do that..lol lol.. Keeps the tank clear.

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Fish tank owners: DO NOT BUY THE API NEXX CANISTER FILTER!!! It leaks from every seal after only a few months.

This is one of the only things I have bought without doing much research and I wish I had. Every review I read says the same thing: it leaks. I will be filing a complaint tomorrow with API.

I was impressed with the features, simplicity and the fancy videos. I bought it around Christmas 2012. Just a couple days ago I noticed that the tank was really low (which is typically from evaporation), so I added more water. The next morning I noticed that my 40-gallon tank was down about 8 10 gallons and there was water on the floor. After looking, I saw the filter gushing water from the bottom. I tried to clean and re-seat the seals and put it back into place and it immediately began gushing, now from the bottom AND the top. At that point I gave up and I'm putting my old filter back into use.

There is a section of beautiful hardwood floor in my living room about 15 feet long that is damaged (discolored, bowed) from the water, and it soaked through to the finished basement. The basement ceiling in my theater room has water marks. Water was dripping from a light fixture, which soaked an area on my brand new rug. There has to be at least $1000 in water damage. Hopefully there isn't more water that kills my entire AV system.

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Monday, February 10, 2014

Como 2 PCS Plastic Coco Tree Plants for Fish Tank Aquarium Deocr

Como 2 PCS Plastic Coco Tree Plants for Fish Tank Aquarium DeocrThese palm trees are very nice and the leaves also have a nice look to it. I put two of these in my 50 gal tank next to some rocks and they really enhance the look to it. It is a bit small the description says 4 inches but if your burying the bottom part in some gravel u can take off about an inch, so make that 3 inches. Be gentle when cleaning and removing these as the tree trunk comes out of the base easily but can be put back in. Overall very nice look and nice base. Recommended for any tank especially smaller ones.

Please let me know if my review helped. Thanks!

I bought these for my fish bowl Before I put these

in his bowl it looked really bleak. I would feel sad

for him, I know he is just a fish, but still, back and

forth back and foth, two and fro

Henderson the beta fish with zero visual stimulation

So ordered these as an add on item.

Wow! it went from looking bleak to looking

like a tropical vacation spot. It looks great

and so help me the fish seems happier

I strongly recomend these plastic trees

they will spruce up your fish bowl in ways

you did not know were possiable.

Buy Como 2 PCS Plastic Coco Tree Plants for Fish Tank Aquarium Deocr Now

The palm trees are layered perfectly so that you get a great effect from the leaves. Even if you don't have a fish tank, I would buy these to set on my desk in the office. They're really cool.

Read Best Reviews of Como 2 PCS Plastic Coco Tree Plants for Fish Tank Aquarium Deocr Here

Just what I was looking for to include in my son's fish tank. They are high quality, and after 6 months of being in the fish tank, still look great!

Want Como 2 PCS Plastic Coco Tree Plants for Fish Tank Aquarium Deocr Discount?

These were perfect for a small 5-10 gallon acquarium set up. You might could even stretch them into a 15-20 gallon. They were exactly as seen in the picture and really highlighted my aquarium well.

Thursday, January 23, 2014

Aquarius AQ5424 Aquarium Fish Net with 5" x 4" Net & 24" Stainless Steel Handle

Aquarius AQ5424 Aquarium Fish Net with 5' x 4' Net & 24' Stainless Steel HandleI ordered this fishnet for use in a 55 gallon freshwater tank. I have other net's (one that came with the tank, one purchased separately) and this net is a much nicer product overall for a number of reasons:

* The net is made of very fine netting material which is the main reason I purchased it. This net was bought to be able to capture some of the smaller catfish in the tank if needed.

* The fine netting prevents the whiskers and fins from catching which could injure or kill the fish.

* The handle is very long at 2 feet and easily reaches in the tank without having to get my hands wet or disturbing the other fish.

* The handle is made of metal (not sure if aluminum, but looks like stainless steel) and is very durable, yet lightweight.

* The net is large enough to catch some of the larger cichlids and plecostomus

I have only used the net a few times (less than a dozen), but it exceeded my expectations for use, balance, weight and overall construction. Again, I purchased this net to use with the catfish, but it works equally well catching all other fish as well. I strongly recommend you consider this net over the larger netting of others as well as due to it's construction. This net was delivered to me, well packaged, within 3 days of purchasing it on Amazon (to an Atlanta address) which was equally unexpected.

My salt water aquarium is 20 inches deep so this net comes in handy. Not only for fish but for moving snails away when they get in the way of my coral. Good purchase for the price.

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Great size, hard to find any that are long enough for a tank that is 24 inches deep. Very soft/smooth net.

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This is a really good quality net. Sturdy thick metal handle that's long which is great for high tanks. The next is very soft and fine mesh. Best net I've owned.

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This is a bit large for what I wanted it for. But my own fault for not reading the description better. Works great though.

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MR. Aqua Co2 Turbo Diffuser 200

MR. Aqua Co2 Turbo Diffuser 200I just received and installed this in my 10 gallon aquarium. I was a little bit skeptical upon ordering this diffuser especially since there was not much information about it online. I became even more skeptical when the text on the box and instructions were almost completely in Chinese(?). I installed the device in my aquarium below the filter outflow. The installation was straight forward and there was no assembly required. This diffuser is performing exceptionally well, releasing a fine mist of bubbles. The device is not loud, in fact the only sound I hear at all every now and then is when a bubble will enter the device and get hit by the powerhead. The diffuser is relatively small and blends in against my black background rather nicely.

I occasionally bubbles larger than wanted, but when I do I just dial down the pressure a bit. Bubble count around 1?1.5 seconds.

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Had to review a YouTube video before I could understand where to insert CO2 hose into device. Instructions in a foreign language with poor illustrations (this is the reason for the 4 stars). Works well with my 40 gallon but w/ high CO2, it's a bit noisy. Overall excellent product, makes super fine bubble mist. Best of any device I've used as a CO2 diffuser. Would highly recommend.

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I purchased this for a 29 gallon planted aquarium. I read the reviews and watched the YouTube video so I kinda knew what to expect in terms of installation. The directions are in an Asian language as others have said but the YouTube video is enough to figure it out more or less. When the motor runs, this product is terrific. It almost completely dissolves CO2 bubbles coming in and releases just a bit of a fine mist coming from the outlet holes. It ran quietly and flawlessly BUT only for a few weeks. Its a shame the motor they use is unreliable. Another reviewer had the same issue as I did and I knew this before ordering it but decided to take a chance anyway thinking it might be a one-off. Unfortunately, it appears its just how these are made. It is a shame though because, it really did work well. I would definitely buy a similar model if it came from a reliable manufacturer and I would be willing to pay more if I knew the motor would last for years and not weeks. As is, it was a waste of money for me.

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Amazon should add another level for rating NO STAR and this product deserves NO STAR at all. It stopped working after 3 weeks, probably less than that. I only found out about this problem becuase I noticed my drop checker was color blue instead of the usual green. And that is how I found out that that this garbage product has stopped working and it is not so cheap at all.

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Thursday, December 5, 2013

Instant Ocean-Aquarium Systems AIOSG29 Seagarden Caulerpa Mexicana Aquarium Decorative Plant, Large

Instant Ocean-Aquarium Systems AIOSG29 Seagarden Caulerpa Mexicana Aquarium Decorative Plant, LargeThis item is exactly what I envisioned when I went looking for a fake plant for my dwarf seahorses. It seems to be relatively high quality, no sharp points or edges, and actually has a weighted base (unlike so many plastic aquarium plants). If you are looking for something for your seahorses to wrap their prehensile tails around... look no further.

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Sunday, December 1, 2013

Small World® Filter Units & Replacement Cartridges for Small Tanks

PENN PLAX World Aquarium Filter, SmallI first discovered these a few years ago when I got a 19-cent goldfish at the pet store. I was determined to give him/her a long life, but I didn't want to invest in a whole big aquarium layout. I knew that an unfiltered bowl was a recipe for disaster so I tried this.

It's a terrific system. The little filter attaches to an inexpensive pump you buy separately. Suction cups hold the filter in place inside a bowl of your choosing. The filter is pretty small so I wouldn't recommend a tank that's much larger than 2 or 3 gallons. I am also not sure this device would work on a spherical bowl -I THINK you need something with at least one flat side.

The filters are inexpensive and super super easy to swap out after a couple weeks' use.

This little feeder goldfish was one of my favorite pet experiences and I attribute his long life (four years!!!) to his healthy bowl.



I uploaded a video so you can see the size and hear the pump.

When we first won two goldfish for our two boys at a fair, we bought the bowl and rocks, but no filter. A week later, one of the fish died, even though I have been changing the water with filtered water.

Now that we have this filter, the fish have been very healthy and the water much clearer.

I still change the water out each weekend, and wash the rocks and inside of the bowl because it gets pretty slimy. So far the fish seem to be really happy.

The main con is the pump is a little noisy, hence four stars.

Below is the review of the replacement filter.

When I ordered a Filter replacement, I got the wrong product:

I needed the SWF-1C rectangular cartridge but I ordered from ToysNGames and received the SWF2C cylindrical instead.

I highly recommend this for a small 2 gallon fishbowl to help keep the water clear instead of having your fish swim in stagnant water.

Each time I switch out the water, I have to rinse the filter case as well since there is a layer of slime? The white filter part turned tan after about 3 weeks.

I change the water with carbon filtered water every week and add some water treatment.

So far, my comet goldfish has been pretty happy.

Again, the correct replacement filter needed is the SWF-1C

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I have a hexagonal three-gallon tank that is home to my grandson's carnival-won goldfish year after year. I don't have the heart to flush these fish away, probably because I don't have to regularly clean or replace the water.

The unit attaches to the inside glass with two suction cups and always stays in place. The filter is excellent for providing the necessary aeration and filtration to keep these fish lively and disease-free, and one cartridge keeps the tank crystal clear for three months. [If you have a smaller tank or bowl with fewer fish, the cartridge will last longer.]

Two of our "carnival fish" are four years old and still lively.

I'm hoping my grandson will stop winning these fish so I can purchase the fish I actually want.

With no moving parts, the filter lasts forever and is powered by a small air pump outside the tank and connected to the filter with flexible tubing. The cartridges are easy to replace by just snapping them into the unit.

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Handy little filter for my fishbowl. Keeps the bowl real clear even with a live plant inside. I have it clipped onto the top of my bowl with my own clip because it's designed for a flat walled aquarium. Also the pump is a navy blue, not teal as in the picture, which I like better.

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I find these little cartridges easy to use for children and work fine for a small (2 gallons or less) aquarium. Great for Beta habitats, etc.

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Saturday, November 2, 2013

Elite Hush 10 Power Filter

Elite Hush 10 Power FilterThis filter came with my 10 gallon thank that I bought 4 years ago. It finally kicked the bucket and they don't sell the elite 10's anywhere close to me in stores! Anyway, I like this filter. It's easy to use, easy to clean and it's quiet. Yes, you can hear a soft (and I mean very very soft) hum....but only if you really are focused on listening for it! Ususally I keep the water in my tank full to the top, so all is quiet. I won't buy another filter. :)

I purchased this product for a 10 gal tank a friend gave me in order to upgrade from a 5 gal Hex system (that I absoutely love), so my fish would have more room. Right out of the box this thing drove me nuts. I went from an aquarium that I could see and not hear to one that I can hear all the way upstairs! It's worse when the lid is on. Not only that, but the intake valve is so short that when debris is "sucked up" toward it, the water flow pushes it right back down and away from the valve. It doesn't even reach half-way to the bottom of the tank when extended. I've already contacted the manufacturer since it's supposed to have a "lifetime warranty." I want my $ back & I am holding the people who designed this catastrophe responsible. DO NOT BUY this product.

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My first Elite Hush 10 that came with my aquarium setup years ago was a fine power filter and I liked it just fine, did just what it was supposed to do. However, several years later when the first one died, I purchased my first replacement power filter, another Hush 10, and this one isn't but just a few months old and it makes a tremendous amount of motor noise for such a small filter, able to hear it a couple of rooms away if all else is quiet! I purchased a 3rd Hush 10 power filter, assuming my 2nd one was just a fluke, but the 3rd Hush 10 was 85% as loud as the one I was replacing right out of the box! 2 out of 3 of these Hush 10's have been a flop, I'm on the hunt for something else that's quieter!

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Saturday, October 26, 2013

Deluxe Aquarium Full Flo Hood 16" 8w

Deluxe Aquarium Full Flo Hood 16' 8wI had trouble finding a hooded light system for my 5.5 gallon tank that wasn't going to be a cheap product with weak lighting, and i didn't want to have to just get a clear cover and then set a light over it. This hood works perfectly for what i wanted. The lighting is great, and makes the tank look awesome. the switch is covered so it doesn't get wet and the light instantly comes on when you flip it. Also doesn't get very hot when left on for several hours.

The only complaint is that it could fit slightly better, it sits right on top of the black frame of my 16X8 tank instead of sitting inside the lip but it works very nicely, confidant no fish will jump out and it keeps the water from evaporating so quickly. I did quite a bit of looking around, and although you can find another hooded light system for cheaper, I would recommend spending the bit extra for this system!

Fits just okay, not great. Cheaper to get entire new kit. Shop before you commit. Stores may have better deal.

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