[Deanna01]

I just learned about lily pipes for external filters and now would love to have some. However, I'm not finding what I would consider a reputable site on the internet to buy any. Has anyone had any luck finding them somewhere?

 

[Deanna01]

I tried ordering some from a Hong Kong seller on eBay, since I can't find them elsewhere. If it works out, I will let you all know!

 

[JDM]

Any particular reason you want to go with these? They would act the same as a stock non-spray bar output by the look of them... no adjustability and a straight out water stream. Am I missing some advantage that is not obvious?

Jeff.

 

[Deanna01]

Honestly, I just think they're beautiful.

 

[JDM]

Oh.

OK.

 

[Deanna01]

I've bought them already, so I suppose it's too late, but is there a nice-looking alternative that is better? I do have a problem with biofilm on my 46G and thought these would help.

 

[JDM]

I will probably post more than you want to read but, I included a picture to help :-D

This is what I had and I found that it disturbed the surface too much. I liked that it disappeared being black and it turned, tilted and has baffles in the output. I switched to a DIY spray bar using soaker hose with holes drilled where I want the water to go.

The issue I see with the lily pipes is that there is next to zero adjustment and when the water has been flowing for a few months the clear plastic will develop a layer of goo on the inside... one more thing to have to clean... although my pipes have the same crud, and they are clear, I don't mind as I can't see them anyway.

I thought that would have had a problem with a layer on the surface and considered using a surface skimmer. Even with the almost zero surface movement now I really don't see any. Pennywort, duckweed and a couple of other plants left floating seem to keep it clear somehow, even where the plants aren't.

Anyway, I wasn't trying to talk you out of them... just playing devil's advocate.

Jeff