Rena XP3 media placement

Ok, before anyone lets me have it for using a canister filter I do plan on building a sump for my 30 gallon FOWLR. But in the meantime what would you all recommend I place in the canister? I have been researching and know that I will need to clean it a lot more frequently but that doesn't bother me, I've also been researching the media for the baskets. What type and where should it be placed for the correct filtration sequence? Any help would be great and thanks a ton in advance.

Ryan

 

hi Ryan

when I ran an external cannister filter, I used filter pad or sponge in top basket to remove larger particles , and this was rinsed in the old tank water during weekly water changes

In lower tray I had sintered glass rings for good biological filtration

in bottom tray I had GFO in mesh bag and for 1 week every month activated carbon
I had these in bottom tray to try and keep them as sediment free as possible

but it did mean every 4th week, all the trays came out so I could replace the carbon and
rinse and clean or replace the GFO

Steve

 

Forgive me, what is GFO?

 

GFO

is a Phosphate removal resin - granular ferric oxide - it removes Phosphate/ bonds Po4
to it and is commonly used in the fight against algae

Steve

 

where is the best place to get this stuff for the filter? I know I can get standard XP3 Filstar media at my LFS, don't worry, they are actually reputable and knowledgable. I was mainly concerned about the glass media for the biological part. I have done freshwater all my life and am pretty much an expert on that category, I just wanted some expert advice on what to do in the meantime with my saltwater tank until I can build my sump.

 

sintered glass rings should be available at many LFS ( Siporax was the 1st to market with these things I recall, but many others have produced similar since)
GFO and Carbon- again LFS should have these, but if not they are widely available on line

I like Rowphos and Phosban for GFO - Elimiphos by aquamedic is also good IMO
I like Sea Chems Matrix carbon

both just personal preferences

Steve