i need a filter upgrade. my current filter does not flow too well.... what is the advantage of having a modded HOB/fuge vs just using the HOB as is? i am looking at putting a AC30 or 70 on my 5.5 gallon. which is better for it?

one advantage is you don't have to keep replacing the filter media and in my opinion macro algae and live rock rubble does a better job at filtration

ok that is the most straight forward answer i have gotten on this subject. i am thinkin about turning an AC50 or 70 into a fuge for my 5.5 reef. what about sediment when things get stirred? how does it get filtered out? usually on mine now it gets caught in my carbon or polyfiber...

You should not really have constant sediments. If you do then your pump is blowing a lot of sand around.

If you are stirring then you need to turn the pumps off and let it settle. This is not a freshwater tank with gravel where you need to siphon the floor and need a filter to catch the debris.

for my 5.5 which would be better? an AC50 or AC70 to turn into fuge.... i know bigger is better and i'd have to modify the impeller or get smaller one to control the flow, but which is a better choice for my size of tank?

I have an AC70 on my 5.5 and did not change the impeller.

this is good to know before i actually buy it and have it installed.... did you tune down the flow on the valve near pump at all?

I just set the flow at the lowest setting. You may need to play with the impeller if its pushing sand around or something, but I didn't have to. I like the AC70 though, I think its the perfect size.

cool thanks. i'll go ahead and get one of those. if i have to i'll cut blades but sounds like i'll be fine. this will be my first fuge i ever built. i hope it goes well. but from the looks of it and my mechanical knowledge i am sure i'll be fine. new things are just intimidating. looking forward to sharing my build soon.

If you end up going the AC70 route Big Al's has them on sale. Im thinking of buying one to. Its only 19.99

http://www.nano-reef.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=225888

SWOOP!!! who just grabbed an AC70 for 27bucks? yeah thats right.... i did..

i cant wait till it gets here so i can fiddle around with the fuge project i got im my plans

oh... and this is SO gonna beat the hell out of the 45 i was gonna spend on skilter. that is before i consulted the site and found out they are garbage.