Too much filtration?
 

I am currently running an API Filstar XPs on my 26 gallon bowfront. There always seems to be particles floating in the water (plant particles, substrate, etc). Would it be overkill if I added a small HOB filter to use strictly as a mechanical filter? I also have a slight film on top of the water everywhere there isn't movement from my canister outtake. I was hoping an additional filter and/or a small powerhead skimming the surface would help with that also. I am always trying to improve my setup.....am I trying to spend money that isn't needed lol? I should add that it is a heavily stocked moderately planted tank.

Today's sponges in filters are open cell enough to let tiny particles through.
Before adding another filter, I would try some polyester filter fiber in the last stage before the return to polish the water. Perhaps you could re-position the return to get more surface agitation?

Agree with AD about repositioning the return. Also, position it so that it is pointing away from the intake.

It is actually on the opposite side of the tank pointing directly towards the surface of the middle of the aquarium. It keeps the surface clear in that general area but the other half of the tank still has the slight film. In response to AbbeysDad, I do have three types of mechanical filtration in my canister ending with a polishing pad. The particles that are suspended are actually pretty big in relative terms...they would easily be filtered out if they were making it to the intake which I don't think they are. :cry:

So why do you think they're not getting to the siphon tube? Is there good circulation? Are they just buoyant enough so they float above the strainer?

I am not sure.....there is a lot of stuff that IS getting to the siphon tube because when I clean the canister filter out (which has become once a week) it is filled with particles of plants and other unidentifiables. My gouramis appear to be tearing up the softer plants. I did buy a "weak" powerhead today that I intended on using strictly to stir up the surface a little more. I believe I am getting enough circulation throughout the tank since all the plants are swaying (with the exception of the ones directly below the outlet). I am starting to think I just have really dirty fish :-)

Swaying plants indicates too much water flow, and that may be part of the problem. The suspended matter is unable to settle down into the substrate where it normally would (not all gets pulled into the filter).

I have a Rena Filstar XP3 on my 115g tank, and it is a good filter. I clean it every 6-8 weeks or it will clog to the point that the flow is noticeably reduced. If you are using all the pads it comes with, it should do the job. The XP S is rated for up to 45g tank, so it hould be more than sufficient. Does it have a spray bar? This would dissipate te flow and make the fish calmer. Gourami do not appreciate water movement, since they naturally occur in stll ponds, ditches, swamps, etc.

Byron.

No, it did not come with a spray bar....do you know if the Rena XPs can be fitted with one? I know nothing about them....can't say I have even seen them in any of the fish stores I have been in, although I wasn't exactly looking. Does the spraybar sit above the water or submerged? Also, does it sit vertically or horizontal (assuming it is submerged)?

Nevermind Byron....I did some research and answered all of my questions. I think I am just going to make my own spraybar....I guess my only question is would the normal PVC glue be safe for aquarium use? I assume it is since it often carries drinking water.

Yes, it's a solvent that actually melts the plastic. Once it [quickly] sets, it is inert.
You can also use safe 100% CLEAR silicone I as 'glue'. It also is inert, will hold pieces together nicely, but is not permanent should you need later enhancements.
Note that for the in-tank portions of the spray bar, the pieces can be just press fit rather than glued.