Sponge filters with Aquatop CF-300

[parker002]

I'm currently running 2 Hydro Sponge #2 filters in addition to my CF-300 and I'm wondering if that's overdoing it.

I want to remove at least one of them and I'm wondering if that is recommended or not.

[Carl]

It is very difficult to "over due it". especially if these are rinsed regularly (which helps keep them from becoming mini nitrate factories)

That said, one should be fine with your Canister Filter

Carl

[parker002]

Thanks!

[parker002]

Here's a question:

I have that VA 302 pump that I'm not using for anything right now. Given that I have plants, should I use the pump with a single sponge filter and then use the air pump just to aerate at night?

EDIT: I also have Filter Max #3 sponges in addition to the Hydro Sponge #2's. What is the optimum setup given all of this info?

[Carl]

The #302 pump does not mate easily to a sponge filter (it is not a power head pump).
If it were mine, I would stay with the air pump.

Do you have the Filter Max # on the Canister filter?
If so, I would leave this alone as this will provide even more bio capacity and a way to pre-filter the water, yet more easily rinse than with the canister filter, thus keeping better control of nitrates.

Carl

[parker002]

I currently do not have the Filter Max #3 on the canister intake but I could make some slight modifications to do so.

I guess I'll play around with it and see what I can figure out.