Correctly organising your filter media is essential for maximising your aquarium’s filtration efficiency and maintaining crystal-clear water. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure effective mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration.
1. Top Basket – Activated Carbon
Place activated carbon in the top basket.
Purpose: Adsorbs toxins, odours, and discolouration.
Benefit: Improves water clarity and helps sustain a healthy environment for fish and plants.
2. Middle Basket – Bio Balls
Fill the middle basket with bio balls.
Purpose: Provides a large surface area for beneficial bacteria to colonise.
Benefit: Supports the breakdown of ammonia and nitrites, ensuring a stable nitrogen cycle.
3. Bottom Basket – Ceramic Rings
Add ceramic rings to the bottom basket.
Purpose: Their porous design offers extensive surface area for bacterial growth.
Benefit: Strengthens biological filtration and enhances overall water quality.
4. Foam Pads (Mechanical Filtration)
Position foam pads according to your filter’s design:
They can be placed at the bottom to trap larger debris before it reaches other media, or at the top for easier cleaning and maintenance.
Tip: Layering multiple pads can extend cleaning intervals by catching progressively finer particles.
5. For Filters with Four Trays
If your canister filter includes four trays:
Divide the bio balls between two trays for better bacterial distribution.
Alternatively, use the spare tray for extra media, such as peat, phosphate removers, or additional ceramic rings, depending on your aquarium’s specific needs.
Final Tips
Always rinse new media (except activated carbon) in aquarium water before use to remove dust.
Replace or clean mechanical media (foam pads) regularly, but avoid washing biological media (bio balls and ceramic rings) with tap water to preserve beneficial bacteria.
Arrange the media so that water flows through mechanical, then chemical, and finally biological stages for optimum performance.