[lelandgray]

I got my tank (55gal) and filter (Fluval 305) from a friend for free. I also got a stand, but I ended up building my own stand.

The filter has been sitting for several years, and it was never cleaned before it was "stored". So, the inlet and outlet is covered with dried "fish tank grime". I haven't tried to clean it yet, so I don't know how hard it'd be. I also need new media, because the media that's in it is old, too. I also don't know about any of the seals or anything. Plus, the hose was cut to length of the old stand, and I'd need new hose because I'm a little further away than how it was set up previously.

So, when you factor all of those parts in, I'm already at about $80 give or take. I've seen some good deals on eBay, for instance there is a 405 listed right now for $110, free shipping.

Should I just go ahead and buy a new filter? If so, any suggestions other than replacing it with another 305 or 405?

 

[nodima]

Before buying a new one, test the existing one. Hose is stupid cheap. The filter does not need to be spotless, nor do you likely need new media - particularly the ceramic stuff, foam and carbon yes probably.

However, if you have made up your mind on getting a new filter, I'd be happy to send you my address, and I will "dispose" of your old one for you...

 

[lelandgray]

I'll go ahead and test it out, see how it does. I can pick up some new Fluval hose off of eBay, but are there any alternatives?

The only media I still have are the foam pads (I'll replace these) and some ceramic stuff (BioMax?). Is the ceramic stuff still good you think? How would I know if I need to replace it?

 

[m1aman]

Measure the hose and go to Lowes or whatever and get replacement hoe. Should be pretty cheap. While there you could also pick up some elbows and/or fittings that would make your hose easier to route to your tank. You can get some foam at Wal Mart. Clean everything else and you are ready to go.

 

[dotbomb]

Measure the hose and go to Lowes or whatever and get replacement hoe. Should be pretty cheap. While there you could also pick up some elbows and/or fittings that would make your hose easier to route to your tank. You can get some foam at Wal Mart. Clean everything else and you are ready to go.

+1

You have a great filter and with a few bucks it will be running perfectly for you.

 

[nodima]

+1 on Lowes/HD for tubing. Be sure to also get hose clamps for every junction. You absolutely can do a custom set of tubing to and from the filter for little cost (and a lot of fun )

As for the ceramic media, IMO it never needs replacing. It is chemically inert, and simply is a mechanism for bacteria etc to colonize, and channel water through. I have some that has to be going on 20 years old at this point. A good rinse now and again has been enough for me.