2 filters 1 line.

[40GallonsOfDoom]

Not trying to do inline filtration as I've heard it's not great on any of the filters as far as the impeller being stressed. So I was thinning about this. In theory I think it will be ok, shouldn't have any effect on the pull from each tank but would increase the input and output flow. Also shouldn't effect the bio filtration in each filter by reduction of oxygenated water in the first filter to the second. Any ideas or am I wrong about something?

 

[sir_keith]

'Increase the input and output flow'? I'm not seeing the logic here. It seems to me that if anything it would decrease flow by virtue of more constriction at the Y-junctions and less cross-sectional area in one vs. two input and output tubes.

 

[40GallonsOfDoom]

Would the increase in suction and out going pressure not compensate? Or would it need a larger input or output hose? Granted I'm not a hydraulic engineer, but I wouldn't imagine the current filters are not pulling or pushing at the maximum flow rate for the hoses.

 

[DMD123]

Are these canister filters? If you have two filters, why not run them independently of each other? Having more than one input and output would seem more beneficial.

 

[40GallonsOfDoom]

I mean yeah that's always an option but I was thinking about less stuff in the tank.

 

[DMD123]

I mean yeah that's always an option but I was thinking about less stuff in the tank.

Okay, that I do understand. Sometimes all the equipment can detract from the slice of nature we are trying to recreate. I know there a few in-line heaters on the market that would then remove one of the most obnoxious of pieces of equipment. You could do a spraybar which may help hide the output higher up where you dont see it. As to the intakes… not quite sure how to hide those

 

[40GallonsOfDoom]

I've got an spraybar on both tanks (came with both eheims). I'm just not wanting to add more to it. I know the obvious answer is to just get 1 bigger filter like an fx4 or something. But I'm cheap and if I can get the same or similar results with 2 smaller, then I would rather run them in tandem. The one I have is sufficient for the current tank its just I prefer the peace of mind in have more than enough. And if I can do a little line plumbing for $20 to get it, even better. Has anyone ordered from Aliexpress? I'm looking at a fx2 for under $200, which seems like a steal.

 

[DMD123]

Has anyone ordered from Aliexpress? I'm looking at a fx2 for under $200, which seems like a steal.

My understanding is that the Aliexpress company is a bit like eBay, with third party sellers using the site for selling to consumers. I dont know if I would trust it as much... reports of counterfeit items, Chinese knock offs being sent and things along those lines. You could wait and see what Black Friday holds, maybe things might go on sale.

 

[sir_keith]

I've got an spraybar on both tanks (came with both eheims). I'm just not wanting to add more to it. I know the obvious answer is to just get 1 bigger filter like an fx4 or something. But I'm cheap and if I can get the same or similar results with 2 smaller, then I would rather run them in tandem. The one I have is sufficient for the current tank its just I prefer the peace of mind in have more than enough. And if I can do a little line plumbing for $20 to get it, even better. Has anyone ordered from Aliexpress? I'm looking at a fx2 for under $200, which seems like a steal.

Since this whole thread started with the notion of minimizing plumbing inside your tank, you do realize that the inputs of any FX filter are at least twice as large as any other canister out there?

 

[40GallonsOfDoom]

Since this whole thread started with the notion of minimizing plumbing inside your tank, you do realize that the inputs of any FX filter are at least twice as large as any other canister out there?

 

[40GallonsOfDoom]

After doing a little research on maximum flow rates and internal water resistance of the tubing for the eheim 600, I've found that the tubing has a reasonable flow rate of 5 to 8 gallons a minute not under pressure. Given that 2 600's have a maximum combined flow rate (under perfect conditions) of 5.33 repeating gpm. One could reasonably conclude that my idea would work, in theory.

 

[40GallonsOfDoom]

 

[sir_keith]

After doing a little research on maximum flow rates and internal water resistance of the tubing for the eheim 600, I've found that the tubing has a reasonable flow rate of 5 to 8 gallons a minute not under pressure. Given that 2 600's have a maximum combined flow rate (under perfect conditions) of 5.33 repeating gpm. One could reasonably conclude that my idea would work, in theory.

Yeah, that's before the tubes start to gunk up with organic detritus, especially in the Y-connectors, which themselves pose obstacles to flow.

 

[40GallonsOfDoom]

Yeah, that's before the tubes start to gunk up with organic detritus, especially in the Y-connectors, which themselves pose obstacles to flow.

Have you done this? Do you have some kind of knowledge you aren't sharing? Or are you just always such a bundle of positive vibes?

 

[sir_keith]

Have you done this? Do you have some kind of knowledge you aren't sharing? Or are you just always such a bundle of positive vibes?

Positive vibes? Far be it from me to rain on your little parade. But have at it; learning by experience is a good thing.

 

[40GallonsOfDoom]

Positive vibes? Far be it from me to rain on your little parade. But have at it; learning by experience is a good thing.

That's exactly the point of this. Learning by doing it. That's why I ask questions, listen to what is said then look for ways to avoid those problems. Seriously, the worst possible outcome is I have to remove $5 in plumbing parts and run the filters independently.

I'm also looking into designing media basket modifications for Eheim Classic filters. Or should I not do that either?

 

[sir_keith]

That's exactly the point of this. Learning by doing it. That's why I ask questions, listen to what is said then look for ways to avoid those problems. Seriously, the worst possible outcome is I have to remove $5 in plumbing parts and run the filters independently.

I'm also looking into designing media basket modifications for Eheim Classic filters. Or should I not do that either?

Do whatever you like: I am not trying to talk you into doing or not doing anything. You did start this thread by asking "Any ideas or am I wrong about something?" Isn't that asking for opinions? Or are you only interested in those opinions that applaud your cleverness?

 

[40GallonsOfDoom]

Do whatever you like: I am not trying to talk you into doing or not doing anything. You did start this thread by asking "Any ideas or am I wrong about something?" Isn't that asking for opinions? Or are you only interested in those opinions that applaud your cleverness?

I've asked you quite directly if you have done this, have experience with this, have some knowledge of this, you don't ever actually answer questions. By all means give an actual answer. Are you a plumber, engineer, handyman?

You seem to think that detritus will block a hose with a maximum flow rate of 8gpm unpressurized, from two pumps with a flow rate of at best 5.3gpm. While at the same time dismissing the possibility of, gee I don't know, regular filter maintenance to avoid detritus buildup.

 

[sir_keith]

I have no interest in giving you a primer on fluid dynamics in closed systems, nor do I have any more time to waste on this silly little topic. But do have fun with your tubing and filters.

 

[40GallonsOfDoom]

I have no interest in giving you a primer on fluid dynamics in closed systems, nor do I have any more time to waste on this silly little topic. But do have fun with your tubing and filters.

Thanks for your input. Have a blessed day. I'll keep you posted.