If you’re having trouble achieving crystal clear aquarium water, I can help! Download my Free ebook with the best tips and advice - kavemanaquatics.com/free-ebook
@@lovelywisdom1989 Cycling a tank can take anywhere from 2-4 weeks. But you can boost that by adding products like seachem stability or api quick start. amzn.to/3mPZ1kN
I've had my 75G fish tank for two years, didn't really care for it too much, so I told my wife to sell it and she didn't want to, so I decided to take into my hands and make it awesome to see and appreciate, your videos have been incredible, I've learned so much, Thank you!
My Aquaclear 50 DID come with a mesh bag for the bio media, but at first I didn't recognize it as a bag because it looks like a super skinny snakeskin and looked like throwaway packing material. But it does stretch out into a bag! Glad I caught it.
I'm not a beginner and I went back to a HOB after using a cannister filter for about 6 years. I had more problems and created a huge mess with my flooring in my house trying to wrangle that damn cannister. I have a 36 gal semi-densely planted tank. HOBs are just SO much easier to deal with. Thanks for the great videos. Very informative and helpful.
I had two Aqua Clear stop working on my when the power went out and back on. I now have Seachem Tidal power filters that are self priming. Now I don't have to worry when the electricity flickers, which is pretty often. >))))o>
That is one of the common negatives of both the aquaclear and the penguin...and you're right the Tidal does take care of that issue by having its pump submerged in the tank water. Tidal HOB's are awesome.
Stopped working, or wouldn't prime by itself? If they died, you have some dirty power. I would put your aquarium on a UPS to prevent it from shutting down. A small filter like that would give you 30 minutes of filtration depending on the UPS you purchase.
Hey Kev, this is Kevin from Arvada, CO and your videos are just what I need. Across the board with filtration, water changes, wave makers, heater knowledge, and more! You make the hobby pleasurable and I feel more Confident about my 29 gallon community tank. Thank You so Very MUCH for all your Time! Kevin Baas
I have a 20 gallon wide tank and an axolotl. Does my tank have to be cycled before I add the hob? My good bacteria is low and ammonia is a lil high. What do I use to get the levels right? I’ve never cycled my tank before my axolotl is 5 yrs old
I have been happy with a simple set up, simple fish and snails, you have made me a better fish owner. You are THE BEST OUT THERE! Your support information, and sites, again THE BEST! You speak clearly, concisely and your clean and clear set up behind you is perfect! You are easy on the eyes too :D Thank you for sharing your gift with us!
@@KaveManAquatics No need to go else where! By the weekend I should have a pristine, or near tank. No matter how much the fish beg, I have cut back feeding by 2/3rds. I never thought fish could beg, but they do!
They definitely do, and they look like you're starving them all the time, lol Thats where many new comers break and over feed and end up with cloudy water.
Great learning videos! 👍 I'm getting back into fish keeping after about 15 years so I feel like a newbie so your videos are very helpful and informative. Thx Kev!
There's never a confusing moment in ur videos with how well you simplify them. Im currently using the exact same HOB(Marineland) it works wonderfully for a beginner like me. I like your ideas on the sponges given as alternatives to the cartridge. Will surely save me some coins...one question though,, is it okay to change both filters together or one at a time? I want to put in 2 cartridges in each compartment on water change day. My ultimate goal is to upgrade to a canister filter, bigger tank someday😎 thanks again bro
Thanks bro, glad you enjoyed the video. And yes you’re thinking correctly, it’s best to change them one at a time. That way you preserve bacteria on one while the new one builds up. If you’re using 4 cartridges change 2 at a time.
I guess I spoke my "ultimate goal, wanting to upgrade to a canister filter and a big tank some day" into existance!!😂 so I got a sweet deal today for a 90gal fish tank, stand, an aquatop canister filter, 48in light with timer, 29gal quarantine tank and many extras including a PFS substrate, all for 300-350$ simply because the owner is "getting out of the game". Although i don't think im ready to upgrade to this size and a canister filter just yet but the deal is too darn good not to put some thoughts into it. Any suggestions🤔?
@@KaveManAquatics you think if you find one your can do a video on it, also can you use the corse and fine pads on those too... I just got into the hobby and want what’s best for my fishes :) I love you videos!!
Hi there kevin, great demo . I’ve watched dozens of your videos on African cichlids.mi too keep mbuna, and peacock cichlids and Aldo dome angel fish. I watch loads of videos on Utube, I comments on loads of other peoples videos but none of them reply yo my comments. Not sure why, maybe it’s because I’m in the uk. Any ways. Back to you my man. I love your cichlid aquariums. I’ve been keeping fish since the late 1970s. My the way I’m a disabled ex army veteran. Correct me if I’m wrong but I believe you to are an ex veteran. Thank you for your service comrade. I will continue to watch and learn from your videos, no one us too old to learn, right. God bless and stay healthy and stay safe from covid. Kind regards from DENN.EX ARMY VETERANS
Hi Kav! Just took a dive into your videos and I’m hooked! My hubby and I got a large 50-55 gallon tank from our neighbors when we were moving into our home. I’ve only ever had up to 10 gal tanks, so this was new to us. Your videos have taught me so much, taking it a step at a time to give our fish what they deserve. Thank you!
oops... thanks for saving some money, having two active aquariums cost me almost 35% of my monthly income, and i thought those thinks are just "things", but hey now i'm gonna get these first thing in the morning. Thanks man! :)
Not a beginner but I had to chime in just to say hi! Love the video, your always super informative and humble, I love it! Cheers from Newfound Aquatics!
@@KaveManAquatics Its my honor! Love the channel my man! Maybe you could pop over to my channel some time, maybe show some critisms. Cheers from Newfound Aquatics!
Wow you really hit it on the money and straight to the point and with good explanation with step by step I am learning by u and looking for more videos thanks bro
I've been in the hobby since 1988. All I have ever used are HOB's and I have had success the whole way. I suppose that I would consider a sump or a canister filter if I had really big tanks but HOB's have done well for me. I prefer the Marineland Bio-Wheel filters. I don't replace the cartridges every month like they recommend, I only replace them when they start looking ratty. I just rinse them out in some tank water and re-use them for at least 3-6 months at a time before I will replace them.
I sport the Fluval 110, I love it, it's huge and so much room for media. My HOB is on the side with all the other accessories. Notably better circulation, and the back is free of clutter for fish viewing. I added a wavemaker. (thanks to your wavemaker placement video)
Love the tips man, I use all aquaclear filters probably like 7 of them since Marineland or other cartridge filters require you to throw away some of your beneficial bacteria. The biggest part imo is you can't remove carbon!! Without removing carbon you can't treat your fish if they get any sort of sickness. I love your diy method never was that clever when I was young and researching hob filters. Aquaclear/fluval is the best hob imo. They last forever too no biowheel getting stuck.
Very good point, with the cartridges you dont have a choice if you dont want to use chemical media. The aquaclear definitely gives you more leeway to use whatever kind of media you want. Thats why I suggest dumping those cartridges in the penguin all together. Thanks for sharing! 😊
I have a 60 gallon that has both the tidal 110 and the marineland. The tidal 110 is great but has a big footprint and if your aquarium is already set up and too close to the wall you have a problem. The marineland is much cheaper and not as wide so it might fit easier behind your tank. The bad thing with that filter is the impelller gets damaged easy and replacement cost almost as much as a new filter. Keep your videos coming, they are great !
I've had my P 350 on my 60 gal for a quarter century. Have changed the impeller once. I use the 3 ply foam method too using pond foam & polyfill.A bag of ceramic rings & a pot scrubbie in each side plus my bio-wheels & its still kicking ass.
Great video bro, I have both of those filters on my tanks and have the same sponge that I use also, it saved me a lot of money and it does the job keeping my tank nice and clear
I just bought a 2nd Marineland Emperor 400 for my 110 African tank (I run 2 400s and an FX6). If I was to see this video last week, I would have gotten the AquaClear. I cannot tell you how many of the "Right Size E" filters I have purchased over the decades! Foam blocks for me now! Great tips Kev!👍
@@KaveManAquatics Definitely. I alternate left and right filters at least a couple weeks apart. And I run them longer than a month because I watch the center overflow!😉
As far as those throwaway cartridges, I reuse mine one time by rinsing them out, my kitchen sink sprayer works great at cleaning them out, I do use my fingers to crush the carbon particles a bit when I reuse them, I wouldn’t recommend reusing them over and over because the carbon does not last forever as far as cleaning and filtering, so that will cut your cartridge cost in half.
Is chemical media in a tank really necessary ?? Do I have to add carbon? What are the benefits? Thank you so much you videos are so helpful. Other videos are talking about complicated things. I don’t understand. Your videos are very helpful and get back to the basics. Thank you!
Glad you’re enjoying the channel and finding it helpful. Chemical media is never necessary. It is an optional media that can benefit your tank if you choose to use it. 😊
Hey Kev, I am new to the hobby loving your videos ty vm ! They are really helpful,question on the HOB video do you still use the carbon part of the equation if you have live plants? Last question any brand of HOB filter should be prepared like your video correct, sponge on the bottom and then bio media and if you say no carbon for planted then stop there correct?
I have the Agua clear for my 3 tanks 10, 55, and 90 gallon. The only down fall is the Agua clear takes a while for the filter to get going after turning it off to clean it up and all. But other then that my tanks are crystal clear!. Good stuff brother.
Yea I know exactly what you’re talking about. The Tidal HOB’s take care of that problem well by putting the actual pump in the tank submerged. So when restarting it starts right up
@@KaveManAquatics The Tidal hmm. I think I am going to look into that brother thanks. Also, thanks to you and the video you made on the supplements you use with your fish food (vitality, seachem garlic etc. Man my fish love it, good looking out with that information buddy once again thank you. #MaAaDFishLife
@@KaveManAquatics so glad I came across your corrected instructions on the fluvial. Had to make an instant decision to upgrade because my juvenile Betta struggled with the 10 filter with the kit. Goal is to have that tank just as crystal to my neighbor 10 gallon with a whisper 40. Already seeing a difference. Thank you.
Wow, I have been having cycling issues, my aquaclear 70 has been set up wrong from what i thought, I have the chemical before the bio so my bacteria is struggling to grow or stay alive even, thanks Kev 😢🙏🏻
Welcome aboard!! 😁I highly suggest you check out my playlist for beginners. It'll be very helpful for you 😁 - ruclips.net/p/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er
I'm currently using a tidal 75 for my African cichlids in my 60 gallon tank. I also use a sponge filter for 125 gallon tanks but as you know you should always over filtrate with cichlids. I plan on ordering another tidal 75 so I can have 2 tidal 75's and have do much filtration to make my water super clear and to have no debris. I have a wave maker too in my tank so I'm still debating buying another tidal 75 cuz you know all about wave makers.
I will tell you, I have two Aqua Clear filters and three Fluval C2's, and now I run the Top Fin filters on all my aquariums, because they are the only easy one's that actually start up without priming if we get a power outtage. I also run a filter sponge in all three just in case. Obviously the instructions for the chemical media is the middle filtration not the last. Fluval, and Aqua Clear filters have sponge first, carbon, and then bio media.
Chemical media is always placed last so that it doesnt remove organics that may be beneficial to the bacteria growing on your bio-media. Which is why bio media goes before the chemical media.
I'm new to the hobby... and a new subscriber. I've been watching your videos all night. I have a question about the water flow rate. I have a 15 gallon vertical tank and smaller fish..guppies, dannio etc. It seemed to me that the flow was too high and was creating a down draft.. or rip tide, so to speak. All the fish were staying at the surface, and if they swam by the filter outlet, they'd get drug to the bottom. My HOB doesn't have flow control, so i got a piece of coarse sponge and cut a little square to put in my pickup tube. It reduced the flow, and the fish seemed happier.... but am i affecting the water filtration?
I'm looking for a new HoB filter. I just have the one that came with my top fin set up. Thinking of trying a new one. I'm struggling with brown algea growth. Ug
I have a question? With the penguin, when you change the cartridge, doesn’t it remove all of the beneficial bacteria and restart your cycle? I have this question because I have an hob and it has replaceable cartridges too
KEV, YOU TALKED ABOUT HOB AND IN PAST VIDEOS DEALING WITH STINKY AQUARIUM WATER.. BUT WHAT ABOUT STINKY HOB BIO SPONGES? EXAMPLE AQUEON POWER PLUS. THIS HOB HAS THE GREY LIL 1 INCH BY 3 INCH BIO SPONGE THAT HAS WATER FLOWING OVER IT, BUT IS ALSO OPEN TO ROOM AIR. THUS IT STINKS..I ACTUALLY HAD TO SET UP A DUAL BASKET FILTER WITH ACTIVATED CHARCOAL IN THE BASKETS TO GET RID OF THE SMELL FROM THE OTHER FILTER. SINCE I CAN ONLY SHAKE THE BIO SPONGE OUT IN OLD TANK WATER, I CAN'T GET RID OF THAT BIO SPONGE SMELL IN MY LIVING ROOM. I EVEN ADDED A SMALL SPONGE FILTER. OVER KILL FOR A 10 GALLON TANK. SHOULD I GET A DIFFERENT HOB OR GET RID OF THAT BIO SPONGE..LETTING THE SPONGE FILTER BUILD BIO? PLEASE ADVISE
Another great 👍🏿 Video Just Got the 55 gal Saturday with the Kit but I’m looking to tweak the filter that came with the Kit and I wanted to know what kind to tweak it with , you’ve given me a good choice 👍🏿 to Choose from I may do the Marine Land 450 with the (2) Extra Trays 🤝 Thanks
I am just starting out I got a 20 gal hexagon tank with hob filtration off marketplace for $20 top fin brand I believe...I am wondering if you could give me some tips on how I can be successful, suggest must haves and the do not. So far I have decided to go with sand substrate. Don't have fish yet but thinking I'll go with guppies and tetras. I am interested in the sponge filter + modification and curious about the wave maker. My confusion is with size (your tanks are much larger) and placement since my tank is an odd shape... or maybe you have some better suggestions for my specific situation?! Thanks in advance, I appreciate your time and content!
Hey Kev just came across your channel and very grateful I did! I'm a beginner in the hobby and I'm wondering what causes white foam build up in a tank? A film over the top of the water is apparent as well. I've read about something to do with protein maybe but I really am not sure. It builds up especially around where the water falls back into the tank in the HOB filter. Am I not cleaning the poop and vacuuming enough maybe?
I have probably a dumb question I am transferring an axltol from a 20 gal to 55 gal tank. My current 20 gallon as 2 air sponges I use as filters, my new tank came with a hang on the back cartridge filter can I use that as well as put one of the air sponges in aswell? Can you over filter a tank?
Hi Kev! Can a person have too much media, sponges etc placed in a HOB that would cause it not to be effective. Is less more in this case as long as it’s the correct stuff
Kave man you've answered a question of mine before and I appreciate but I feel I may have made a mistake in my dinosaur bichir tank it started in an old tank I added them to a new tank with old substrate and old filtration but today I added a new filter system to the tank and did not rinse the new filter the old one is still in the new tank as well until the new one is established I'm scared that I didn't do something right and may have harmed my fish
My tetra 20 gallon whisper filter leaking water and I had two incidents of my power surge smoking from the plugs because water leaked on it. So I am seeking a better filter to use.
i have the fluval filter in a 20 gal long and its been about 6 months and i've never cleaned it. i noticed last week, that the sponge and the filter tube is starting to look fuzzy. so am i clear that you dont replace the sponge and bio media? just rinse them and replace the chemical? my water is still crystal clear but i want to make sure the water stays healthy.
I finally did my filter hang on back without the cartridge cost me too much. I put the sponge floss and media. Is the whote.pad.u showed us cled floss pad ,? Not sure. Plus I bought this big piece of black pad not sure if getting all correct items by name. Ty for explaining so well.
Can you use those white sponges on a aquarium kit cause i don't want to waste money on the thin filters cartridges. I haven't brought the aquarium kit so i don't know what the filter looks like.
I have a HOB filter with small cartridges that it says to change every month. how would i change the filter cartridge without disturbing the beneficial bacteria?
Depends on many things. Size of the filter...type, size, and quantity of fish...maintenance schedule. If you want clear water I highly suggest you check out my book that covers it all - bit.ly/clearH20
Hello I find your videos very informative! I recently got back into the hobby after a ten year hiatus. I don’t quite understand in which order the mechanical bio and the chemical filtration work. I have an emperor 450. Do I just fit all that I can on the inside where there is space? Where does the Polly fill go. Do you have a short tutorial on how to the 450 works?
If you’re having trouble achieving crystal clear aquarium water, I can help!
Download my Free ebook with the best tips and advice - kavemanaquatics.com/free-ebook
Hello there, quick question... How long do I cycle my new fish tank before adding the fish? It’s a 29 gallon tank. Thank you !😊
@@lovelywisdom1989 Cycling a tank can take anywhere from 2-4 weeks. But you can boost that by adding products like seachem stability or api quick start. amzn.to/3mPZ1kN
@@KaveManAquatics thank you!!
@@KaveManAquatics aquaclear or tidal 110 ?which is better?
I've had my 75G fish tank for two years, didn't really care for it too much, so I told my wife to sell it and she didn't want to, so I decided to take into my hands and make it awesome to see and appreciate, your videos have been incredible, I've learned so much, Thank you!
Glad your wife didn’t sell it and you stuck with it! 😁💪
My Aquaclear 50 DID come with a mesh bag for the bio media, but at first I didn't recognize it as a bag because it looks like a super skinny snakeskin and looked like throwaway packing material. But it does stretch out into a bag! Glad I caught it.
I'm not a beginner and I went back to a HOB after using a cannister filter for about 6 years. I had more problems and created a huge mess with my flooring in my house trying to wrangle that damn cannister. I have a 36 gal semi-densely planted tank. HOBs are just SO much easier to deal with. Thanks for the great videos. Very informative and helpful.
Hands down the best aquarium channel on RUclips. I have been keeping fish for years and I learned a TON from just this video alone. Thank you!
Thank you so much! Glad you're enjoying the channel!
I’ve really appreciated and found your content really helpful. You get to the topic quickly and don’t waste my time. Thanks for the great content.
Thank you, I try to keep my videos straight into the point! I know how some you tubers can be. Glad you’re enjoying the channel! 😊
Facts I love how this man comes in gets to the point and doesn’t leave me guessing on What he is trying to tell me
Just bought my 7 year old her first pet a Betta! glad I found your channel very direct and easy to follow. #thanks and subscribed.
Congrats to you and her!! Thanks for the Sub 😊
I had two Aqua Clear stop working on my when the power went out and back on. I now have Seachem Tidal power filters that are self priming. Now I don't have to worry when the electricity flickers, which is pretty often. >))))o>
That is one of the common negatives of both the aquaclear and the penguin...and you're right the Tidal does take care of that issue by having its pump submerged in the tank water. Tidal HOB's are awesome.
Stopped working, or wouldn't prime by itself? If they died, you have some dirty power. I would put your aquarium on a UPS to prevent it from shutting down. A small filter like that would give you 30 minutes of filtration depending on the UPS you purchase.
@@johntexan4165 Stopped working. I tried to prime it by adding water myself. They just didn't work anymore. So I tossed them.
I think aqueon does the same thing. Impeller in the water.
Hey Kev, this is Kevin from Arvada, CO and your videos are just what I need. Across the board with filtration, water changes, wave makers, heater knowledge, and more! You make the hobby pleasurable and I feel more Confident about my 29 gallon community tank. Thank You so Very MUCH for all your Time!
Kevin Baas
My pleasure Kev (Great name btw lol) Glad you’re enjoying and finding the channel helpful! 😁💪
I have a 20 gallon wide tank and an axolotl. Does my tank have to be cycled before I add the hob? My good bacteria is low and ammonia is a lil high. What do I use to get the levels right? I’ve never cycled my tank before my axolotl is 5 yrs old
I came across your channel today trying to clean out my friends fish tank and I must say you are clear concise to the point thank you great videos
I have been happy with a simple set up, simple fish and snails, you have made me a better fish owner. You are THE BEST OUT THERE! Your support information, and sites, again THE BEST! You speak clearly, concisely and your clean and clear set up behind you is perfect! You are easy on the eyes too :D Thank you for sharing your gift with us!
Lol Thank you Carol!! 😊😊 I appreciate that positive feedback! So glad you’re enjoying the channel! 😁
@@KaveManAquatics No need to go else where! By the weekend I should have a pristine, or near tank. No matter how much the fish beg, I have cut back feeding by 2/3rds. I never thought fish could beg, but they do!
They definitely do, and they look like you're starving them all the time, lol Thats where many new comers break and over feed and end up with cloudy water.
Great learning videos! 👍 I'm getting back into fish keeping after about 15 years so I feel like a newbie so your videos are very helpful and informative. Thx Kev!
My pleasure! Glad I could help 😊💪
@@KaveManAquatics I'll definitely have questions
Best way to answer questions is during one of my member only live streams...next one is tomorrow! Join here - ruclips.net/user/kavemanaquaticsjoin
There's never a confusing moment in ur videos with how well you simplify them. Im currently using the exact same HOB(Marineland) it works wonderfully for a beginner like me. I like your ideas on the sponges given as alternatives to the cartridge. Will surely save me some coins...one question though,, is it okay to change both filters together or one at a time? I want to put in 2 cartridges in each compartment on water change day. My ultimate goal is to upgrade to a canister filter, bigger tank someday😎 thanks again bro
Thanks bro, glad you enjoyed the video. And yes you’re thinking correctly, it’s best to change them one at a time. That way you preserve bacteria on one while the new one builds up. If you’re using 4 cartridges change 2 at a time.
I guess I spoke my "ultimate goal, wanting to upgrade to a canister filter and a big tank some day" into existance!!😂 so I got a sweet deal today for a 90gal fish tank, stand, an aquatop canister filter, 48in light with timer, 29gal quarantine tank and many extras including a PFS substrate, all for 300-350$ simply because the owner is "getting out of the game". Although i don't think im ready to upgrade to this size and a canister filter just yet but the deal is too darn good not to put some thoughts into it. Any suggestions🤔?
Thats an awesome deal! And you may not be ready to upgrade yet, but you will...and probably soon lol I say DO IT!! 😊💪
@@KaveManAquatics 🤣 okay! Thanks. I arranged delivery. Still have to get schooled a little bit more on canister filters
Can’t begin to say how much I love your videos. Thank you man!
Thanks bro! Glad you’re enjoying the channel! 😊💪
I've been using the aqua clear bio media the way the box says for years no wonder it will get changed tonight thank you.
Glad I could help!
I love the Tidal range of HOB, I’m using 35 and 110, personally I think you can’t beat them 👍
I agree, I couldn’t get my hands on one for the demo...but Tidal is my new faavv
@@KaveManAquatics you think if you find one your can do a video on it, also can you use the corse and fine pads on those too... I just got into the hobby and want what’s best for my fishes :) I love you videos!!
@@KaveManAquatics do you have a link for the tidal. I would like to purchase one
Hi there kevin, great demo . I’ve watched dozens of your videos on African cichlids.mi too keep mbuna, and peacock cichlids and Aldo dome angel fish. I watch loads of videos on Utube, I comments on loads of other peoples videos but none of them reply yo my comments. Not sure why, maybe it’s because I’m in the uk. Any ways. Back to you my man. I love your cichlid aquariums. I’ve been keeping fish since the late 1970s. My the way I’m a disabled ex army veteran. Correct me if I’m wrong but I believe you to are an ex veteran. Thank you for your service comrade. I will continue to watch and learn from your videos, no one us too old to learn, right. God bless and stay healthy and stay safe from covid. Kind regards from DENN.EX ARMY VETERANS
Hi Kav! Just took a dive into your videos and I’m hooked! My hubby and I got a large 50-55 gallon tank from our neighbors when we were moving into our home. I’ve only ever had up to 10 gal tanks, so this was new to us. Your videos have taught me so much, taking it a step at a time to give our fish what they deserve. Thank you!
That’s awesome! So glad you’re finding the channel helpful 😊💪
oops... thanks for saving some money, having two active aquariums cost me almost 35% of my monthly income, and i thought those thinks are just "things", but hey now i'm gonna get these first thing in the morning. Thanks man! :)
My pleasure, glad I could help! 😊
Not a beginner but I had to chime in just to say hi!
Love the video, your always super informative and humble, I love it!
Cheers from Newfound Aquatics!
Thanks bro, appreciate that! 😊
@@KaveManAquatics Its my honor!
Love the channel my man!
Maybe you could pop over to my channel some time, maybe show some critisms.
Cheers from Newfound Aquatics!
My 1st HOB is still running 5 years later. Great tip about the cartridges also. They become costly. Pimped out my HOB a few months ago.
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it 😊
Wow you really hit it on the money and straight to the point and with good explanation with step by step I am learning by u and looking for more videos thanks bro
Thanks bro, glad you enjoyed it 😊
I would be lost without you bro. I appreciate the time you take to make these videos. I've learned alot from you. 🙏
Glad to hear that bro! I'm glad I can help! 😊💪
Wow. Thank you so much . For tell me about the way the aqua clear need to be in the filter.
Glad it helped
I've been in the hobby since 1988. All I have ever used are HOB's and I have had success the whole way. I suppose that I would consider a sump or a canister filter if I had really big tanks but HOB's have done well for me. I prefer the Marineland Bio-Wheel filters. I don't replace the cartridges every month like they recommend, I only replace them when they start looking ratty. I just rinse them out in some tank water and re-use them for at least 3-6 months at a time before I will replace them.
I appreciate your channel as a new fish aquarium owner
And I appreciate you watching! 😁💪
Man, your explanations are amazing. It's easy to understand specially for newbs like me. Thanks!
Glad to hear that!
Excellent video. I have been installing my Penguin cartridges backwards for years.
Thanks! Glad I could help 😊
oh my what a game changer!! thank you i sure do not want to replace them all the time thank you so much , i am so glad that i found your videos
My pleasure!! Im glad you found them too! 😊
I sport the Fluval 110, I love it, it's huge and so much room for media. My HOB is on the side with all the other accessories. Notably better circulation, and the back is free of clutter for fish viewing. I added a wavemaker. (thanks to your wavemaker placement video)
Yea that HOB is a beast, thanks for sharing...glad you found that wave maker vid helpful 😊
Love the tips man, I use all aquaclear filters probably like 7 of them since Marineland or other cartridge filters require you to throw away some of your beneficial bacteria. The biggest part imo is you can't remove carbon!! Without removing carbon you can't treat your fish if they get any sort of sickness. I love your diy method never was that clever when I was young and researching hob filters. Aquaclear/fluval is the best hob imo. They last forever too no biowheel getting stuck.
Very good point, with the cartridges you dont have a choice if you dont want to use chemical media. The aquaclear definitely gives you more leeway to use whatever kind of media you want. Thats why I suggest dumping those cartridges in the penguin all together. Thanks for sharing! 😊
I just switched my media around, didnt know box was wrong (btw...I did get a mesh bag for the bio media)🙂 You are amazing, thank you hon!
Many people make the mistake, glad I could help! 😁😁
I have a 60 gallon that has both the tidal 110 and the marineland. The tidal 110 is great but has a big footprint and if your aquarium is already set up and too close to the wall you have a problem. The marineland is much cheaper and not as wide so it might fit easier behind your tank. The bad thing with that filter is the impelller gets damaged easy and replacement cost almost as much as a new filter.
Keep your videos coming, they are great !
Great insight bro, thanks for sharing those great tips! 😊
Your HOBs now are nice !!
Ready?! Let’s go!
Lets go!!
I've had my P 350 on my 60 gal for a quarter century. Have changed the impeller once. I use the 3 ply foam method too using pond foam & polyfill.A bag of ceramic rings & a pot scrubbie in each side plus my bio-wheels & its still kicking ass.
Nice!! 💪
Great video bro, I have both of those filters on my tanks and have the same sponge that I use also, it saved me a lot of money and it does the job keeping my tank nice and clear
Awesome! Thanks for that feedback! 😊
Loving your channel mate, this media replacement tip is a big money saver. Giving you more cash for more fish. Thanks from Oz bro.
And thats the ultimate goal!!! 🤣🤣💪💪
I love what you do. Please keep making these videos.
Thank you! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁💪
BTW, you should check out my new Aquarium Keeping APP designed for beginners! - aquabuildr.com
I have an aquaclear I prefer it for the ease where I can custom chose my media
Great Video.👍 I Still Use HOB's.
Thanks! They’re great filters!
I just bought a 2nd Marineland Emperor 400 for my 110 African tank (I run 2 400s and an FX6). If I was to see this video last week, I would have gotten the AquaClear. I cannot tell you how many of the "Right Size E" filters I have purchased over the decades! Foam blocks for me now! Great tips Kev!👍
Glad I could help! Definitely toss those cartridges and save your pockets!!
Just a reminder though...dont toss all the cartridges at once...do half and half so you dont shock the cycle
@@KaveManAquatics Definitely. I alternate left and right filters at least a couple weeks apart. And I run them longer than a month because I watch the center overflow!😉
Thats perfect 👍
As far as those throwaway cartridges, I reuse mine one time by rinsing them out, my kitchen sink sprayer works great at cleaning them out, I do use my fingers to crush the carbon particles a bit when I reuse them, I wouldn’t recommend reusing them over and over because the carbon does not last forever as far as cleaning and filtering, so that will cut your cartridge cost in half.
Hey Kaveman, just wana say that I enjoy ALL your content but especially Cichlid related!
Keep it up !
Thanks bro, will do! I try to mix it up, sometimes cichlid stuff, sometimes general aquarium stuff...big african cichlid video coming next week 😉
@@KaveManAquatics looking forward to it
Very helpful and clear tips, as always. Thanks much, and keep up the good work.
Thank you! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁💪
Hey bro I like you. You know your stuff. Thanks for all the knowledge
Thank you bro! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁💪
Is chemical media in a tank really necessary ?? Do I have to add carbon? What are the benefits? Thank you so much you videos are so helpful. Other videos are talking about complicated things. I don’t understand. Your videos are very helpful and get back to the basics. Thank you!
Glad you’re enjoying the channel and finding it helpful. Chemical media is never necessary. It is an optional media that can benefit your tank if you choose to use it. 😊
That's how I started 30 gallon tank and a HOB ! My fish of choice were red tail sharks, and later Dempsey !! Then Later Oscars !
Nice progression!! 😁💪
@@KaveManAquatics Thanks, now to cichlids, and my battle finding out what tankmates for two Venustus and 5 bred yellow labs !!
Good video I have 2 - 400 marineland bio filters & extra media in & large air stones..90- gal tank.
Could you do a video on heaters and which you would recommed.
Try this one - ruclips.net/video/TsAC8iN_y1c/видео.html
Hey Kev, I am new to the hobby loving your videos ty vm ! They are really helpful,question on the HOB video do you still use the carbon part of the equation if you have live plants? Last question any brand of HOB filter should be prepared like your video correct, sponge on the bottom and then bio media and if you say no carbon for planted then stop there correct?
Great videos very helpful for beginner. I currently have a aqueone 75 filter. Only have room for the filter carbon cartridges. Thanks
Glad it was helpful!
I have the Agua clear for my 3 tanks 10, 55, and 90 gallon. The only down fall is the Agua clear takes a while for the filter to get going after turning it off to clean it up and all. But other then that my tanks are crystal clear!. Good stuff brother.
Yea I know exactly what you’re talking about. The Tidal HOB’s take care of that problem well by putting the actual pump in the tank submerged. So when restarting it starts right up
@@KaveManAquatics The Tidal hmm. I think I am going to look into that brother thanks. Also, thanks to you and the video you made on the supplements you use with your fish food (vitality, seachem garlic etc. Man my fish love it, good looking out with that information buddy once again thank you. #MaAaDFishLife
@@KingAdams90 No problem! Glad I could help! 😊
@@KaveManAquatics so glad I came across your corrected instructions on the fluvial. Had to make an instant decision to upgrade because my juvenile Betta struggled with the 10 filter with the kit. Goal is to have that tank just as crystal to my neighbor 10 gallon with a whisper 40. Already seeing a difference. Thank you.
Wow, I have been having cycling issues, my aquaclear 70 has been set up wrong from what i thought, I have the chemical before the bio so my bacteria is struggling to grow or stay alive even, thanks Kev 😢🙏🏻
I actually use the frames from the original cartridges and wrap the polyfill pads around them and stuff them back in. Works like a charm!
Excellent hack Leslie! Sorry for the delayed response, never saw the comment until now 😁
New to the Fish Life! just subscribed very clear teaching thanks
Welcome aboard!! 😁I highly suggest you check out my playlist for beginners. It'll be very helpful for you 😁 - ruclips.net/p/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er
I'm currently using a tidal 75 for my African cichlids in my 60 gallon tank. I also use a sponge filter for 125 gallon tanks but as you know you should always over filtrate with cichlids. I plan on ordering another tidal 75 so I can have 2 tidal 75's and have do much filtration to make my water super clear and to have no debris. I have a wave maker too in my tank so I'm still debating buying another tidal 75 cuz you know all about wave makers.
Both work great. Fluval AquaClear is my preference. Now I’ve seen the Tidal and I may just try that one out. Appreciate u sharing 💪🏼
I agree, and I really like the Tidal too 💪
I will tell you, I have two Aqua Clear filters and three Fluval C2's, and now I run the Top Fin filters on all my aquariums, because they are the only easy one's that actually start up without priming if we get a power outtage. I also run a filter sponge in all three just in case. Obviously the instructions for the chemical media is the middle filtration not the last. Fluval, and Aqua Clear filters have sponge first, carbon, and then bio media.
Chemical media is always placed last so that it doesnt remove organics that may be beneficial to the bacteria growing on your bio-media. Which is why bio media goes before the chemical media.
I'm new to the hobby... and a new subscriber. I've been watching your videos all night. I have a question about the water flow rate. I have a 15 gallon vertical tank and smaller fish..guppies, dannio etc. It seemed to me that the flow was too high and was creating a down draft.. or rip tide, so to speak. All the fish were staying at the surface, and if they swam by the filter outlet, they'd get drug to the bottom. My HOB doesn't have flow control, so i got a piece of coarse sponge and cut a little square to put in my pickup tube. It reduced the flow, and the fish seemed happier.... but am i affecting the water filtration?
Great video, very helpfull. Thanks a lot. Greetings from Costa Rica.
Thank you! Glad it was helpful!
You are the bomb man, very thorough, and very knowledgeable. By the way your tanks are sick! 👍🏾💯✌🏾
Thank you bro, appreciate you! 💪
How would you use a wave maker with one of these?
Nice vid, short & direct to the point. New sub here!
Thanks for the sub! 😁💪
So if it wasn’t for the carbon inside/on these disposable filter cartridges they would be reusable??
I'm looking for a new HoB filter. I just have the one that came with my top fin set up. Thinking of trying a new one. I'm struggling with brown algea growth. Ug
Love your channel dude
Thank you bro, I appreciate that!
@@KaveManAquatics you're very welcome I followed your advice on the polly fill and I just pimped out my tidal 35 like in your video so awesome
@@KaveManAquatics gonna try and get people from Toronto to subscribe to your channel there is huge fish group I'm in
That would be awesome! I really appreciate that! 😁💪
@@KaveManAquatics very welcome
When doing a water change what type of water thermostat do you get and how do you apply it to your sink?
I have a question? With the penguin, when you change the cartridge, doesn’t it remove all of the beneficial bacteria and restart your cycle? I have this question because I have an hob and it has replaceable cartridges too
You read my thoughts, great video
Glad to hear it 😊
KEV, YOU TALKED ABOUT HOB AND IN PAST VIDEOS DEALING WITH STINKY AQUARIUM WATER.. BUT WHAT ABOUT STINKY HOB BIO SPONGES? EXAMPLE AQUEON POWER PLUS. THIS HOB HAS THE GREY LIL 1 INCH BY 3 INCH BIO SPONGE THAT HAS WATER FLOWING OVER IT, BUT IS ALSO OPEN TO ROOM AIR. THUS IT STINKS..I ACTUALLY HAD TO SET UP A DUAL BASKET FILTER WITH ACTIVATED CHARCOAL IN THE BASKETS TO GET RID OF THE SMELL FROM THE OTHER FILTER. SINCE I CAN ONLY SHAKE THE BIO SPONGE OUT IN OLD TANK WATER, I CAN'T GET RID OF THAT BIO SPONGE SMELL IN MY LIVING ROOM. I EVEN ADDED A SMALL SPONGE FILTER. OVER KILL FOR A 10 GALLON TANK. SHOULD I GET A DIFFERENT HOB OR GET RID OF THAT BIO SPONGE..LETTING THE SPONGE FILTER BUILD BIO? PLEASE ADVISE
Great Video Kev ! keep em coming !
Thanks bro, glad you enjoyed! 😊
Thanks men this video help me out a lot.
No problem 👍
I have a 46 gallon bowface wanted to know how to measure what size wave maker to get
You are very helpful, thank you 🤗
My pleasure, glad you found it helpful! 😊
Thanks Kev
Kaveman always making good vids
Thank you! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁💪
Another great 👍🏿 Video Just Got the 55 gal Saturday with the Kit but I’m looking to tweak the filter that came with the Kit and I wanted to know what kind to tweak it with , you’ve given me a good choice 👍🏿 to Choose from I may do the Marine Land 450 with the (2) Extra Trays 🤝 Thanks
Glad I could help 😊
So if you have double up on the sponges in the aqua clear do you still need the bio media and chemical filtration inside?
Fluval finally got the hint and puts their bio media in mesh bags now. 😂
Everyone grows in this hobby, even monster companies like Fluval 😊
Thanks bro you rock
😊💪
I’m on a fixed income. I have 2 10 gal. Tanks. What are the best cheaper HOB filters?
I am just starting out I got a 20 gal hexagon tank with hob filtration off marketplace for $20 top fin brand I believe...I am wondering if you could give me some tips on how I can be successful, suggest must haves and the do not. So far I have decided to go with sand substrate. Don't have fish yet but thinking I'll go with guppies and tetras. I am interested in the sponge filter + modification and curious about the wave maker. My confusion is with size (your tanks are much larger) and placement since my tank is an odd shape... or maybe you have some better suggestions for my specific situation?! Thanks in advance, I appreciate your time and content!
Hey Kev just came across your channel and very grateful I did! I'm a beginner in the hobby and I'm wondering what causes white foam build up in a tank? A film over the top of the water is apparent as well. I've read about something to do with protein maybe but I really am not sure. It builds up especially around where the water falls back into the tank in the HOB filter. Am I not cleaning the poop and vacuuming enough maybe?
White film build-up could be calcium deposits if you have hard water. It's normal and nothing to worry about other than aesthetics.
I have probably a dumb question I am transferring an axltol from a 20 gal to 55 gal tank. My current 20 gallon as 2 air sponges I use as filters, my new tank came with a hang on the back cartridge filter can I use that as well as put one of the air sponges in aswell? Can you over filter a tank?
Hi Kev! Can a person have too much media, sponges etc placed in a HOB that would cause it not to be effective. Is less more in this case as long as it’s the correct stuff
Kave man you've answered a question of mine before and I appreciate but I feel I may have made a mistake in my dinosaur bichir tank it started in an old tank I added them to a new tank with old substrate and old filtration but today I added a new filter system to the tank and did not rinse the new filter the old one is still in the new tank as well until the new one is established I'm scared that I didn't do something right and may have harmed my fish
My tetra 20 gallon whisper filter leaking water and I had two incidents of my power surge smoking from the plugs because water leaked on it. So I am seeking a better filter to use.
Do you use the carbon?
❤️❤️❤️ thank you 🙏👏🥰 information is invaluable xx
You are so welcome
Can you put chemi pure blue and purigen right on top of the carbon insert in the tray??
Is fake plants ok in aquarium? Also how do i attach a tube to sponge filter please
Great content. Which sponge goes to the back of the filter, course or soft?
Course in the back, fine in the front...if you can fit that.
i have the fluval filter in a 20 gal long and its been about 6 months and i've never cleaned it. i noticed last week, that the sponge and the filter tube is starting to look fuzzy. so am i clear that you dont replace the sponge and bio media? just rinse them and replace the chemical? my water is still crystal clear but i want to make sure the water stays healthy.
I literally only listen to this guy about my fish tanks.
Thanks for the support! 😁💪
I finally did my filter hang on back without the cartridge cost me too much. I put the sponge floss and media. Is the whote.pad.u showed us cled floss pad ,? Not sure. Plus I bought this big piece of black pad not sure if getting all correct items by name. Ty for explaining so well.
Can you use those white sponges on a aquarium kit cause i don't want to waste money on the thin filters cartridges. I haven't brought the aquarium kit so i don't know what the filter looks like.
I have a HOB filter with small cartridges that it says to change every month. how would i change the filter cartridge without disturbing the beneficial bacteria?
Can you use a Top Fin Power Filter for 75 gallon and the water will be clear
Depends on many things. Size of the filter...type, size, and quantity of fish...maintenance schedule. If you want clear water I highly suggest you check out my book that covers it all - bit.ly/clearH20
Hello I find your videos very informative! I recently got back into the hobby after a ten year hiatus. I don’t quite understand in which order the mechanical bio and the chemical filtration work. I have an emperor 450. Do I just fit all that I can on the inside where there is space? Where does the Polly fill go. Do you have a short tutorial on how to the 450 works?