Quote:
Originally Posted by Fishguy2727  I said IME prefilters are needed with AquaClears. |
Well I have two running AC70 filters. One is a dedicated Seachem Matrix only bio-filter that uses a Fluval sponge pre-filter (which costs about a buck and fits over the inlet tube just fine). The other just uses the inlet tube outta the box and I've never seen a problem even with small fish, including neon tetras. Of course, it would be a problem with small fry, but so would almost any standard inlet strainer. I have to admit that both of my filters are set for minimum flow/maximum re-filtration and I'm sure that's a factor in this discussion.
When you think of it, a very fine inlet strainer is a double edged sword. As much as it protects drawing in tiny creatures, it also prevents fish/plant detritus from entering the filter, serving only to quickly plug the inlet.
Even still, if the complaint is resolved with a dollar pre-filter sponge or a piece of old panty hose the Mrs. (I'm hoping not yours) will never miss, how much of a valid complaint is it really?
I've also heard some complaints that the return flow from the AC filters is too great. A 'problem' I solved by making a baffle from an empty water bottle that cost nothing.
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