When I talk to others about my custom plumbed 300watt Hydor eth heaters on an FX5, there are always a ton of questions. So I thought I would post how I did it. The problem is that the FX5 uses a 1" tubing and the heaters are 5/8", so a special adapter needs to be made.
Its just a couple simple PVC fittings to make it work. A 1" barb adapter into two 1/2" barbs. The 5/8" heater tubing will work on the 1/2" barbs but will be slightly loose so a hose clamp is absolutely necessary. Just make two of these, one at the bottom and one at the top with some short 5/8" tubing to connect. Then you will have to replace the Fluval ribbed tubing with smooth type. I also made custom PVC spray bars, but you will have to figure a way to get the output of water into the tank.
Actually I had changed the barbed fitting a little but this is what is going on under my stand. Had to zip tie it in to keep heaters upright
Hope that gives some inspiration to those who would like to do similar. PVC plumbing parts are your friend and you just need to think outside the box.
Its just a couple simple PVC fittings to make it work. A 1" barb adapter into two 1/2" barbs. The 5/8" heater tubing will work on the 1/2" barbs but will be slightly loose so a hose clamp is absolutely necessary. Just make two of these, one at the bottom and one at the top with some short 5/8" tubing to connect. Then you will have to replace the Fluval ribbed tubing with smooth type. I also made custom PVC spray bars, but you will have to figure a way to get the output of water into the tank.
Actually I had changed the barbed fitting a little but this is what is going on under my stand. Had to zip tie it in to keep heaters upright
Hope that gives some inspiration to those who would like to do similar. PVC plumbing parts are your friend and you just need to think outside the box.
