Install your intake and output assemblies. The intake and outlet valves on the filter are clearly marked. Ensure the input strainer is at least 3″ above the bottom of your tank. Nonetheless, I’ve found that choosing filters based on these calculations is more than sufficient for keeping my tank water clean and clear. Fluval 407 vs FX2: Detailed Comparison Self-starting - just add water, plug in, and Smart Pump™ will take over. Trapped air auto-evacuated every 12 hours to ensure maximum efficiency Lift me media basket out of the filter using the red lifting handles, pour the water from the canister into the tub, and place the canister to one side. You could add some water from your aquarium at this stage if you wanted. The covers need to be fitted vertically. The rear part of the clamp and the pipe cover slide together using tongue and groove moldings. The underside of the curved part of the cover then clips onto the curved part of the clamp.

Designed for reliable filtration in a finely adjusted aquarium environment, the Smart Pump technology is equipped with a microchip which permanently monitors the filter and impeller. Speed and efficiency of the magnetic impeller are constantly monitored to guarantee a powerful water flow and highest energy efficiency. The Smart Pump technology of the FX2 manages the self-start feature and evacuates any trapped air every 12 hours to promise maximum efficiency.Position the filter as close to your aquarium as you can and avoid any sharp bends or turns in the tubing. Self-starting – just add water, plug in and Smart Pump™ will take over. Trapped air auto-evacuated every 12 hours to ensure maximum efficiency Large pallet items like aquariums are deemed delivered successfully with no damage once the the driver has left the property. If a report of damage is submitted after the driver has left we may be unable to assist with replacements. We recommend refusing a damaged delivery, this is the fastest resolution. This valve allows you to stop the water flow and then detach it from the filter in one piece, making cleaning and maintenance waaaaaaaay easier. Give your filter media a thorough cleaning in the water in the tub to get all the trapped gunk and detritus off. Don’t forget to give the baskets a rinse too.

On the top is a leaflet which needs to be removed. You need to separate the 2 white baskets as each of them has a red tray in the center with a plastic bag full of BioMax ceramic rings. You’ll also find yet another disposable plastic bag containing 2 additional empty filter media bags. Again, the 407 arrives assembled, but you have to take it all apart as there’s a leaflet inside the canister, the filter media comes sealed in plastic bags, as does the rubber gasket seal that goes between the canister and lid.Move the priming handle up and down 3 or 4 times until you can hear the filter filling itself with water. Filtration capacity: The Fluval FX2 offers a higher filtration capacity with a circulation rate of 475 gallons per hour compared to the 407’s 383 gallons per hour. I’ll list a few common messy fish and if you keep any of these guys you may be best choosing the FX2. Because it has a higher water turnover rate and capacity for filter media to catch the additional mess, it will keep your water cleaner.

Both the Fluval FX2 and 407 external canister filters are designed to work in freshwater and saltwater aquariums. Filter Media When it comes to fitting the hose clamps to your tank, all I’ll say is: read the instructions first (or watch the YT video above)…I’m a typical guy, instruction manuals must not be read at all costs, I will struggle and tear my hair out first!! I’ve found that following this simple calculation stops you from buying a filter that is too small or too large (and wasting money) for your aquarium. Activated carbon helps remove chemical impurities, odors, and discoloration from the water, keeping it crystal clear and smelling sweet, no one wants their tank to smell like rotten eggs!You will need to lubricate the rubber o-ring occasionally using a silicone based lubricant . Pump Performance and Efficiency

Biological filtration uses beneficial bacteria to consume highly toxic ammonia and nitrites, turning it into safer nitrate, which you then reduce with water changes and by having live plants. Now fit the rubbery end of the input and output hosing to the AquaStop valves, securing them in place with the hose clamps and a flathead screwdriver.Clean the filter’s impeller and housing: Over time, debris and slime can accumulate in this area, resulting in reduced pump performance. The impeller is the white part that sits inside the cover and just pulls out. You can also clean the impeller housing with a bottle brush while you’re at it. Both filters come with all the filter media you need which includes all 3 stages of filtration. Mechanical Filtration Media Activated carbon needs to be replaced on a regular basis as it will stop working, aim to replace it after a month. Energy efficiency: The Fluval 407 is the more energy-efficient option that can potentially save you money on your bills in the long run.