In the previous article “EHEIM external filter systems”, aquarium equipment from one of its very first manufacturers was described in detail. This list can be safely supplemented with the name of another manufacturer of filtration equipment, Fluval.
, widely known in aquarium circles.
External filter systems from Hagen, sold under the Fluval brand, differ from models from other manufacturers:
· layout of fillers in the inside of the canister;
· smaller filter volume of the canister compared to its competing analogues, despite the similarity of technical characteristics and recommended aquarium volumes for use.
There are currently three lines of Fluval filters on the market:
- Filter systems 106, 206, 306, 406
- FX5
- Series G
Filters 106, 206, 306, 406
External filtration systems 106, 206, 306, 406 are the sixth generation of filters used in aquariums whose volumes are in the range of 50-400 liters. You can buy an aquarium of this size in our convenient catalog.
The filters boast ease of maintenance. You will love the ease with which they start, which the manufacturer managed to achieve by installing a piston that pumps water. Also pay attention to the presence of a valve that will block the flow of water in the event of a power outage.
Composition of the filter flask: 4 sponges, porous ceramics, carbon. Please note that older models of the line have additional empty baskets. The aquarist can fill them according to his preference.
Principle of operation
Water enters the system from above. When it first hits the sponges, it undergoes mechanical filtration. Then it rises from the bottom up, passing through the remaining filter media, where it is finally cleaned.
Degree of reliability
High-quality, reliable filter system. Leakage occurs only if the piston and head gaskets are not maintained or are not replaced in a timely manner. To eliminate the possibility of leakage from under the adapter, keep an eye on the gaskets.
Starting the system
When the entire line is assembled, do not rush to plug the system into the outlet. Create draft in the flask, for which you need to use the pumping piston, which is located at the top of the filter. Water will begin to flow from the aquarium into the filter, and when it completely fills the flask, plug the system into a power outlet.
Filter FX5
A powerful, high-tech, multi-stage canister-type filter system capable of cleaning aquariums up to 1500 liters in volume.
The composition of the filter flask: three ring-shaped sponges and three empty baskets for filter media. Interestingly, the pump, in addition to being located below, is also located outside the external filter housing.
Principle of operation
Water enters the system from above. Then the water spirals down to the bottom through mechanical cleaning sponges, after which it rises up through the remaining filter media.
Once a day, the system stops to release the air bubbles accumulated in it, which during the stop are collected under the lid, and at the time of startup are pushed into the aquarium through the hose. This is done to ensure a complete vacuum within the system, which is necessary for the filter to operate at maximum efficiency. The process of draining the flask is also simplified as much as possible: an additional tap is provided at the base of the filter for this purpose.
Degree of reliability
Reliable system. The likelihood of a leak can only be caused by the lack of maintenance of the head gasket or its untimely replacement.
Starting the system
Before starting the system, be sure to fill the filter with 8-10 liters of water. To do this, you need to suck air from the filter through the exhaust tube and wait until the flask is filled with water. If this is not done and the system is run dry, the pump may burn out, and you can no longer count on warranty service.
It is more convenient to fill the filter with water while it is open and at the stage of installing baskets filled with filter materials.
External filter Hagen FLUVAL FX6 3500 l/h up to 1500 l
The Fluval FX6 filter is practically no different from its predecessor Fluval FX5, but has several important features. Fluval FX6 is not only a modified version of the filter we know, but also an improved version more tailored to the needs of users.
Intelligent pump technology that ensures optimal filter performance, which in turn results in perfect filtration. The pump is regulated by an electronic microcircuit, which continuously monitors the operation and condition of the filter. The speed and efficiency of the magnets are constantly measured, which guarantees energy efficiency and the required power of water flow. Using SMART PUMP technology, in addition, the automatic start mechanism is adjusted and air trapped in the filter system is eliminated. Every 24 hours the pump stops operating to remove air from the system. Thus, effective filtration of water in the aquarium is achieved.
The Fluval FX6 external filter also features a durable AquaStop system, featuring the same universal mounting system as the FX5. Thanks to the modular system and the presence of a lower purge valve, the filter can be easily maintained and washed. The total height of the filter is 54 cm.
Fluval FX6 now consumes 10% less electricity compared to its predecessor. Unlike the FX5, it comes with Biomax fillers for biological filtration included. The Fluval FX6's productivity has been reduced from the FX5's 2,300 l/h to 2,130 l/h.
The latches of the top cover have also undergone modifications, ensuring a tight fit of the cover to the filter housing under pressure. On the filter cover there are 2 elements with 12 divisions, which show the date of the last maintenance and water change. You can now mark the date of the last filter maintenance, as well as the date of the last water change.
Containers with fillers are located in the center of the filter housing. The containers are easily removed and separated, making maintenance and maintenance easier. Also included with the filter are Biomax fillers for biological filtration. Each container is covered with a filter sponge for initial mechanical filtration.
Pump characteristics:
- Multi-stage cleaning system + high power.
- Quiet operation of the filter.
- Large volume of filter material.
- Provides crystal clear water.
- Convenience during installation and maintenance.
- Automatic start system.
- AquaStop water shut-off system.
- Multifunctional fastening system.
- Reliable water intake chamber - reduces the likelihood of clogging.
- Easy water changes with smart pump technology - no more carrying buckets of water.
Filter characteristics:
- Advanced motor technology provides higher reliability while consuming 10% less energy.
- Click-Fit AquaStop valves allow for quick filter installation and ensure a sealed filter. Valves are angled at 45° for easy installation.
- The direction of the outlet nozzle can be adjusted to create specific water flows in the aquarium.
- Drain hose purge valve for easy maintenance and filter canister flushing.
Specifications:
- For aquariums up to 1500 l.
- Pump capacity - 2130 l/hour.
- Filter volume: - 20 l.
- Power consumption - 41 W.
- Size - 33 x 37 x 54 cm.
- Manufacturer: Hagen (Canada).
Series G
The line is represented by two new generation electronic filtration systems:
- G3, capable of serving aquariums with a volume of 150-300 liters;
- G6, which can serve aquariums with a volume of 300-600 liters.
These innovative filter systems feature a module that measures and displays information on an LCD monitor regarding changes in aquarium temperature and flow characteristics. When the system starts, normal indicators are set. If during operation the indicators deviate from the specified ones, you will see a warning that will appear on the display. Also, at startup, the approximate time for washing the filter media is set, so you don’t have to worry - the smart filter will not let you forget about it.
All data for the last days is recorded by the system and remembered, and a line graph is saved in memory.
Thanks to the use of special cartridges, with the help of which mechanical, biological and chemical cleaning is carried out, the process of servicing the system has been significantly simplified.
The sponge, which is traditionally used as a material for mechanical filtration, is replaced in the G Series systems by a compact pleated cartridge with high performance. Due to this element, the filters of this line provide high-quality water filtration.
The composition of the filter container: a cartridge for chemical cleaning with activated carbon, bio-filler of large and small sizes, located in two or three baskets (the quantity depends on the model).
Principle of operation
The water coming from above goes down, first passing through containers where it is mechanically and chemically purified, and then falls into baskets with biofiller. After biological treatment, the water leaves the filter through a pipe. Biodesign aquariums are equipped with such a modern filtration system.
Degree of reliability
Reliable system. The possibility of leakage can only arise if the head gaskets are not maintained or are not replaced on time.
Fluval FX-4 - external filter for aquariums up to 1000 liters
External filter Fluval FX4
For aquariums with a volume of up to 1000 l Filter capacity: 1700 l/h Maximum pump performance: 2650 l/h Power: 30 W Filter volume: 14 l Water lift height: 2.1 m Filter size: 33x37x42 cm (with taps)
Number of containers: 2 pcs Upper container - mechanical filtration Middle container - biological filtration Lower container - chemical filtration Volume of one container: 3.9 l The filter is cleared of accumulated air every 12 hours
Filter Features:
1. Multi-stage filtration produces healthy aquarium water 2. For freshwater and saltwater aquariums 3. Improved smart pump operation technology for optimal filter performance, efficiency and control 4. Advanced rotor compartment operation technology ensures better performance and reliability, consuming 10% less electricity 5 AquaStop System - Click-to-close valves on hoses allow for quick installation and provide a tight seal during maintenance 6. Valves rotate 45 degrees to facilitate filter installation and maintenance 7. Automatic filter start system - simply pumps water into the filter and saves you the hassle of starting the filter 8. The monthly maintenance indicator allows you to remember the date of the last filter cleaning/water change. 9. Powerful mechanical contaminant protection system ensures a continuous flow of water through the filter 10. Multi-directional water outlets can be adjusted to create water flows in specific directions 11. Special valve for easy cleaning and draining of the filter with drain hose for easy maintenance and flushing away dirty water from a filter canister 12. The ability to attach a long hose to the filter will eliminate the need to run around with buckets during maintenance 13. Filter capacity: 1700 liters per hour 14. For aquariums up to 1000 liters
Equipment:
— Large block of porous sponge x4 — Baskets for fillers x2 — AquaStop water shut-off system — Ribbed hose — 2 edge fasteners (+6 clamps) — Water intake — Filtration grid — Complete set of all sponges and substrates — Outlet pipe — 2 rubber connectors — Manual Operation - Quick Start Instructions
Hagen Fluval external canister filters are a multi-stage filtration system that uses the entire volume of the container for longer filtration life and high efficiency. Mechanical filtration consists of porous sponges that trap large particles of dirt, preventing them from entering and clogging the biological and chemical fillers located in separate independent compartments. Any filler can be changed separately and independently of others, which allows you not to interrupt and ensure the required level of beneficial nitrifying bacteria.
Fluval external filters offer easy, convenient maintenance that includes immediate availability, convenient latches for easy access to the unit, corrugated hoses, and AquaStop technology that shuts off water flow without having to disconnect the hoses.
