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Before Using Chemical Filtration - WATCH THIS! [Is it a Waste of Money? Do You Really Need It?]

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  • čas přidán 29. 08. 2020
  • Is chemical filtration a waste of money? Does it work? Do you really need it? Do I use it? These are some of the questions I've been hearing lately. Well, here are my tips, based on first hand experience on using (or not using) chemical filtration. I've used all of the most popular brands like ChemiPure (Blue and Green), Seachem Purigen and Seachem Matrix Activated Charcoal).
    I give you my conclusion and final verdict on this subject at the end of this video. You agree or you might disagree. I certainly want to know what's been your experience with chemical filtration? Did you notice a difference? Do you use it now or have you stopped using it? Why? Share your thoughts, knowledge and experience in the comments below and let's "Always Be Learning!"
    Interested in trying out some of the products mentioned in this video? They are all available at my Amazon Store. Here are some links:
    ChemiPure Blue: amzn.to/3gKffZg
    ChemiPure Green: amzn.to/2YLsu5W
    Seachem Purigen: amzn.to/2QDYzbc
    Seachem Matrix Carbon: amzn.to/3hGbNA5
    Seachem Pristine: amzn.to/2G2cTZ0
    Note: Pristine was mentioned in the video by "Clarity" is the product that was being thought of since Pristine, like their Stability product, is a bacteria additive.
    Here is a link to Seachem Clarity: amzn.to/2QCF176
    Pond Sponges (cut to the shape needed): amzn.to/3gALv0U
    Pinky Filter Floss: amzn.to/2YGQzL9
    Water polishing (crib batting) poly-fil: amzn.to/31DzQKs
    Pumice (as filter bio media): amzn.to/2EKaLEH
    Biohome Ultimate (bio media): amzn.to/3hTS14x
    To see all the products I've used and/or tested, visit my Amazon store at:
    amazon.com/shop/benochart
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Komentáře • 173

  • @vonholley
    @vonholley Před 3 lety +1

    Great info thanks so much for making the video!

  • @RaulsAquaticsandReptiles
    @RaulsAquaticsandReptiles Před 3 lety +5

    Very informative as always. Great video on Chemical filtration. I’ve used both Perigen and Chemi pure blue. Never tried to recharge them. I’ve always just got new ones. Thanks for sharing 👍

  • @eshawn97
    @eshawn97 Před 3 lety

    Thanks for the informational vid. Really excellent.

  • @alantooth48
    @alantooth48 Před 2 lety

    thanks Ben for all the info very helpful

  • @koilover7740
    @koilover7740 Před 3 lety +2

    Thank you for all good information 🙏🙏🙏

  • @ronj9460
    @ronj9460 Před 3 lety +1

    Another great advice video.

  • @banderaitaly
    @banderaitaly Před rokem +3

    The order of filtration was great and easily described thanks!

  • @camilohermida3273
    @camilohermida3273 Před rokem +1

    Great info.👍..will try it.

  • @fabian050408
    @fabian050408 Před 3 lety +2

    Great information 🤙🏻

  • @VinnysAquatics
    @VinnysAquatics Před 3 lety +1

    Good morning Ben! 👍 I don’t use any chemical filtration expect carbon after medications BUT I do use purigen in my 55 saltwater tank and I did notice a difference BUT I’m never going to use Bleach to clean anything in my aquarium...I don’t even clean my floors with bleach because of my dog buster, it’s too toxic much better natural cleaners out there. I just replace the purigen instead since it’s just that one tank. I don’t see the need in freshwater though especially with a planted tank... I think a lot of products are sold as a way to say you don’t need as many water changes? I say just do your water changes don’t let a company tell you it’s ok to slack on your husbandry...great subject and great information my friend once again Thank You 😃

  • @joeking8698
    @joeking8698 Před rokem +1

    Good info!!

  • @mikerichardson8983
    @mikerichardson8983 Před 3 lety +1

    I use matten filters in sump and have always used blue filter floss over the top of poly filter pads in my overflow. Change blue filter floss weekly, change poly pad monthly. Works great.

  • @Lawful123
    @Lawful123 Před 3 lety +1

    Watching you from afar for a while. Finally subscribed.

  • @rajgill7576
    @rajgill7576 Před 2 měsíci +1

    Ive been in the hobby for years, and i started using purigen this year. My walstad tank with no water changes was a little yellow, and its perfect now. My reef tank has better pokyp extension on all the corals. Its worth it

  • @dhammaboy1203
    @dhammaboy1203 Před 3 lety

    I have used Purigen for 9 months & I pulled it out to re-charge but I am going to leave it out & see how it goes. The tank has been running for over a week without & my water is still crystal clear. IF anything its' better than before! Thanks Ben - this was helpful!

  • @wadelawson4165
    @wadelawson4165 Před 2 lety

    These are great points on how to use these products…..

  • @fishmanc5357
    @fishmanc5357 Před 3 lety +1

    I used carbon for the first time last month when I went on holiday for 2 weeks. I was unsure if the water quality would be ok, but when I came back it was fine! Clean water, and only just near 20 ppm nitrate and 0.5 ppm nitrite. Water didn't smell at all and no sickness in the fish! In fact they seemed healthier than before I left! I'll be sure to take the carbon out in the next few weeks and I would use it again if I'm going away.

  • @James_Hande
    @James_Hande Před 3 lety +8

    I stopped using activated carbon back in the 70's. Never tried anything else for chemical filtration. Just sponges and poly-fill. Never had problems and my water is always crystal clear.

  • @johntaylor8196
    @johntaylor8196 Před 3 lety +1

    I did the same thing with the purigen and I used the seachem Matrix for my biological filters in my canister and I did exactly like he said I used it when I first sat my tank up and then when I clean my tank and cycle it I'll use it again but I do not use it in between time as far as charcoal goes I do use it to help with to keep any kind of odor down and it just seems to make the water more crystal clear and I found any kind of activated charcoal can work you don't have to spend a lot of money on charcoal because charcoal was basically charcoal thank you for the information I enjoy your Channel I'm getting ready to try my hand at a planted tank and I always learn something from you so thank you much Ben

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 3 lety +1

      Thank you. I might try planted tanks too. I’ve some amazing set ups.

  • @Redneckrino
    @Redneckrino Před 2 lety +1

    Agree 100% thanks 👍🏼

  • @rudrapuvan1303
    @rudrapuvan1303 Před 3 lety

    Tq sir. Really helpfull info.

  • @elisuzukovich431
    @elisuzukovich431 Před 2 lety +1

    100% agree. I have a planted 29 gallon, with an under gravel filter (deep gravel bed) as my primary filter. I ran a HOB with poly fill for water polishing, and used Purigen early on to even out excess nutrients. It was good for controlling brown algae and green spot algae blooms. But after the tank matured in 12 months, I haven't used any chemicals. Three years and still no chemicals. Where I would use carbon or Purigen is for a smaller set-up like a 3-10gallon nano tank.

    • @goodvishnu
      @goodvishnu Před 2 lety

      A undergravel filter as it, do you have some kind of pump under the gravel that runs water or just a thick gravel bed that filters naturally?

    • @elisuzukovich431
      @elisuzukovich431 Před 2 lety

      @@goodvishnu I run an undergravel filter/plenum with an Aquclear 20 power head with a 4-6 inch thick gravel bed.

    • @goodvishnu
      @goodvishnu Před 2 lety

      @@elisuzukovich431 ah i Guess i missed out on this, i have 10-11 inch thick layer peaks on my 100 gallon tank, i bet there is no way in hell i can push a bed filter down now.
      Any tricks i can try? 😂 Thanks!

  • @elizabethG633
    @elizabethG633 Před 3 lety +5

    I have Purigen in my 10 gal, but I didn't place it last, but realized after I was finished doing the maintenance that I should have placed the Purigen on top of the Bio. I am going to change it around next time I clean my sponges and polishing fiber.

    • @shaz447
      @shaz447 Před 3 lety

      Elizabeth. Check his video. Canister Filter cleaning. He places it after mechanical media🤷🏻‍♂️🤷🏻‍♂️

  • @SPd.Triple
    @SPd.Triple Před 3 lety

    Really great review/ advice . All natural for me! Regards from the UK by the way 👍

  • @markfranklin8831
    @markfranklin8831 Před rokem +1

    I completely agree with you 💯 percent they help a lot at first then as your tank becomes balanced you don't need to use unless you end up with a algae bloom then I turn to API accu- clear and in 24 hours it's gone as well. Thanks for sharing

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před rokem

      Thanks for watching and commenting 😀👍🏻

  • @mickshaw555
    @mickshaw555 Před 3 lety +3

    Im planning on a 8ft (200 gallon) Tanganyika tank, thats why I'm trying to watch all your videos.

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 3 lety

      What a great project!👍🏻

  • @johni972
    @johni972 Před 3 lety

    I use Chemi-pure after the cycle is finished or winding down. I have used it in saltwater tanks and freshwater. But like you after the tank parameters level out, I may or may not use it. I have noticed like you that once everything is set, water parameters, correct number of fish, etc. I don't really need it but it is like a security blanket for me. So I do like to have it in the filter.

  • @justinopinion4016
    @justinopinion4016 Před rokem

    Hey Ben, great vids, awesome advise! How long would you wait to clean a second FX6 filter after cleaning the first filter? I have a 225 with five Oscars and a Pleco and was wondering how long I should wait to clean the second filter to give time for the first to build good bacteria. Keep the vids coming! Thank you. Mike

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před rokem

      How often do you clean them? I go 9 months with a pre-filter over the intake. So if I had 2 canisters on the same tank I’d clean one, then alternating do the other one, every 4 1/2 months.

    • @justinopinion4016
      @justinopinion4016 Před rokem

      @@BenOchart Hi Ben, I have to clean at least one every two months or the water coming out just dribbles. Those Oscars sure make a mess. When I do clean the filters they are jammed right up with gunk/detritus etc and very little flow. I wish I could go 9 months but thats OK I don't mind cleaning every two months. Thanks for replying, Cheers. Mike

  • @ryanjones9786
    @ryanjones9786 Před 3 lety +11

    I agreed with everything you said, and learned a couple things. Most fish videos have me rolling my eyes but yours do not.

  • @brianp6180
    @brianp6180 Před 3 lety +9

    Great subject Ben. I used chemical for 25 years. 1st activated carbon. Then Purigen. About 3-4 years ago I decided that anything that needs to soaked in bleach like Purigin can’t be good. I stopped using it and replaced with more bio filtration. Saved money and time. Results are awesome. Like you said carbon when needed is ok as long as you replace it every month. It does polish the water nicely. Similar to a filter for your drinking water.

    • @aussbasstony9763
      @aussbasstony9763 Před 3 lety +3

      If you follow Seachems directions Bleach is fine to treat Purigen.

    • @brianp6180
      @brianp6180 Před 3 lety +4

      I followed there directions. I used it for 10 years. I stopped using it and realized it did nothing. My water is as clean without it. I feel no matter what the directions say you always take a risk when you soak something in bleach that is designed to absorb material. How can you be sure you get all of the bleach out of it? Waste of time and money on an established tank with lots of bio filtration in my opinion. The space it took up in my filters was replaced with more bio. Does the job and is safer.

    • @Chris-nn3vu
      @Chris-nn3vu Před 3 lety +1

      @@brianp6180 same in my experience, makes no difference

    • @winooi5012
      @winooi5012 Před 2 lety +1

      Nitrate is colourless but it’s toxic when high in concentration

    • @simonzinc-trumpetharris852
      @simonzinc-trumpetharris852 Před 8 měsíci

      You don't HAVE TO recharge Purigen - you can throw it and use fresh instead.

  • @CrisisGuildWOW
    @CrisisGuildWOW Před 3 lety +2

    Real wisdom is spoken here. Chemical filtration must be carefully considered in view of what other methods of filtration you are using. Sometimes they will compete and cause each other to become less effective or fail. Especially if you're using a NNR method (Natural Nitrate Reduction). Also resins are really great for catching dissolved organics but just like mechanical media, that organic still breaks down into nitrate while its being held by the resin and only benefits once the media is cleaned or changed. Keep this in mind if you are using chaeto for nitrate export, some chemical medias will remove phosphate to the point where chaeto will not grow and die because it requires small amounts of phosphate as well as nitrate to grow and consume the nitrate. I run only reef tanks now but this principal would apply to all aquariums....

  • @kizukigaia
    @kizukigaia Před 3 lety

    Nice video, Ben! But what do you think about dont use chemical filtration in crowded cichlids tanks? Do you still recommend do not use?

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 3 lety +1

      I haven’t heard about chemical filtration and sticking levels being connected. If you have cloudiness that will not go away, in a heavily or lightly stocked tanks.

  • @rpimjada1549
    @rpimjada1549 Před 3 lety +1

    Nothing beats regular cyclic water changes and redundant filtration systems. Thanks for the tips.
    Respect to those who do chemical filtration. Its their money to waste. Chemical filters only become useful when chemical poisons were introduced (from rocks, wood and even the environment).

  • @lou9294
    @lou9294 Před 3 lety +10

    Thanks for the information my friend greatly appreciated God bless

    • @rpimjada1549
      @rpimjada1549 Před 3 lety

      This is one channel which makes sense. Ben Ochart is a reliable source of info.

  • @seannunes2041
    @seannunes2041 Před 3 lety +2

    Hi Ben, I agree with your conclusion. I ran purigen for about 3 months as a trial. But as you pointed out, once I removed it my tank ran clean without it. I too fo not belive it is a necessary filtration component for a mature tank especially with plants.

  • @srf6161
    @srf6161 Před 3 lety

    I love the chemi-pure blue for my Mbuna tank!

  • @bigbowlowrong4694
    @bigbowlowrong4694 Před rokem

    Chemipure was responsible for giving my reef tank dinoflagellates. As in, my tank got massively infested with the stuff and it immediately disappeared for good when I removed the Chemipure Blue from my filter. Since then it’s been carbon only for chemical filtration. Lots of people don’t use any carbon in their reef tanks, but I have lots of soft corals and it gives me piece of mind about them releasing toxins into the water column.

  • @zenfox1979
    @zenfox1979 Před rokem

    To answer your point on chemical filtration taking away from biological filtration bacteria, I have done some research on this and for example purigen states that purigen only takes away impurity's etc once its reached the chemical, until that point it takes nothing away so basically if you put bio media before chemical media in your filter the water passes through the media, the good bacteria takes as much as it can then anything left passes on and then through the chemical so purigen does not stop the growth of good bacteria, it just eats what your bacteria cannot handle.

  • @englelisa45
    @englelisa45 Před 4 měsíci

    So what should i use to get all the floating particles? I do water changes and vacuum the gravel.

  • @mau5lover2000
    @mau5lover2000 Před 3 lety

    I use fluval zeo carbon is that the same as these products or are these better?

  • @BigDaddyJGG
    @BigDaddyJGG Před 3 lety

    is having zero nitrates bad for. a reef system? i Have Zero right now and was told to keep 10 to 15 nitrates for corals. How do you achieve this?

  • @11Bomber29
    @11Bomber29 Před 2 lety

    I rescued a red eared slider, set him up in a 20g tank for a while, but once he reached about 3-4 inches, I got a 125g aquarium to provide adequate room for him to grow to maturity. However, it seemed bare, so I added some gouramis, tetras, mollys and a couple of plecos. I've never had a tank with 'only' fish, so I don't have a frame of reference, but it definitely seems that having a turtle will gunk up a tank exponentially faster. I do water changes probably twice as much as what I've seen recommended for folks who have no turtles, and it feels like I still can't get clear water no matter how hard I try. I just cleaned out the filters in my oase 600 and added two of the purigen packets to see if that will help. If that doesn't work, I may have no other choice but to create a turtle sanctuary in the back yard and just do fish in the aquarium.

    • @bellasibley
      @bellasibley Před rokem

      this is a bit late lol but i have a res too and aquatic plants are good way to help with nitrates therefore helping the water quality!! snails could be good if u have algae happening but ur res might eat them LOL. feeding him in a separate container can also help so the uneaten food isn’t sitting in the tank and doesn’t cause ur water levels to drop and become cloudy.on reddit there’s a red eared slider community that have lots of good info and helpful ppl!!

  • @KeyMacGamingKeyz
    @KeyMacGamingKeyz Před 3 lety

    I use this cheap stuff for pond filters it's just like the fluval clearmax but a third of the price. I only use it because my lights are on for most of the day and it keeps the phosphate levels down. 👍🐠🐡

  • @HalfManHalfCichlid
    @HalfManHalfCichlid Před 3 lety +8

    After nearly 60 years in the hobby I have narrowed it down to biological filtration using different porosity Poret foam. I use charcoal to absorb discoloration from driftwood and after medications on rare occasions. In my experience the chemical media are expensive, they clog quickly, are high maintenance to recharge and have literally no positive impact on a cichlid aquarium where a lot of waste is produced.

    • @brianp6180
      @brianp6180 Před 3 lety +2

      I agree 100%. Chemical is not needed as long as you have lots of bio and do your maintenance. Also I over filter my tanks. More room for bio & foams

    • @HalfManHalfCichlid
      @HalfManHalfCichlid Před 3 lety +2

      @@brianp6180 One nice thing about foam is I never have to cycle a new tank. I just move foam from an already established sump or HOB or Canister.

  • @martyborst5645
    @martyborst5645 Před 3 lety +2

    I don’t use carbon anymore and my water has never gotten cloudy since I stopped using it 6 months ago. My water stays polished. I have my aquaclear h.o.b half stuffed with foam sponges. Maybe that is why. All I know is what I am doing is working so I am not playing with it. Thanks for the video.🐠😃

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 3 lety +1

      That’s a good approach! If it’s working, don’t fix it😉👍🏻

    • @martyborst5645
      @martyborst5645 Před 3 lety +1

      Thanks Airwolf. I have a 36, 90 and a new 150. Excited about my new tank! They all have aquaclears.on all 3 tanks. I am glad someone out there has a good view on aquaclears.

  • @matthewirvin6505
    @matthewirvin6505 Před 2 lety

    My tank is heavy load because my acara chichlids they are so dirty 😔 but love them. So I got two of these to have one ready to go when I take one out

  • @alexiscondit898
    @alexiscondit898 Před 3 lety +1

    I'm wondering if purigen is ok for my established planted aquarium. It is heavily stocked, but I don't want to compromise the beneficial bacteria and plants...

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 3 lety +2

      It sh loud be okay. A similar product from Boyd is called ChemiPure GREEN, and it’s specifically made for planted set ups.

  • @pjquin9110
    @pjquin9110 Před rokem

    Well I assume the chemicals may be killing the beneficial bacteria because most chemicals tell u to remove ur filter media. Marineland also states to remove ur bio wheels and leave them sitting in tank water while ur treating ur tank.
    Love purigen tried it when my tank was unbalanced and cloudy. I used it for a week and helped balance it out and crystal clear. After cleaning and recharge i store it for the next time I need it.

  • @charlessloop1552
    @charlessloop1552 Před 3 lety +1

    In my experience carbon and fluval co2 is the only things that work as they say they should. I have tried a few other products and after a few months I didnt notice and differences. I do try not using much of any added chemicals although they have there benefits for someone like me who travels a lot for different jobs

    • @rpimjada1549
      @rpimjada1549 Před 3 lety

      Unless you placed poisons (say a rock decoration leeched metals) any carbon filter exports more than it helps. Water changes are more practical.

  • @lancejohnson7742
    @lancejohnson7742 Před 3 lety +1

    I used Acurel F. Works great! Just a few drops.

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 3 lety

      I'm not familiar with that product Lance.

  • @WhiteCloud746
    @WhiteCloud746 Před 3 lety +2

    Great video, it's a minor quibble but I think you are confusing Seachem Pristine with Seachem Clarity. Seachem's Flocculation agent is called "Clarity." By contrast, Pristine is one of their bacterial agents, similar to Stability.

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 3 lety

      You’re right. It’s mentioned in the note under the video.

    • @WhiteCloud746
      @WhiteCloud746 Před 3 lety +1

      @@BenOchart Shucks, my bad. I should read that section more. I appreciate your videos.

  • @Eli-ey7lq
    @Eli-ey7lq Před 3 lety +8

    Expensive and tanks work perfectly fine without it

    • @rpimjada1549
      @rpimjada1549 Před 3 lety +1

      Exactly. If you cannot maintain a tank why even bother to have one. Hire someone to do the water changes if you cannot. Better than those chemical poisons.

  • @christopherkeene8380
    @christopherkeene8380 Před rokem

    I inherited and cleaned up a planted tank about 6 months ago that had some ancient purigen and biomedia in the filter. After 6 months, my water is crystal clear and parameters are good- EXCEPT i have nitrates through the roof. I left the old purigen and biomedia in the filter and only ever change the carbon slide in filter. Would adding new purigen and biomedia help lower my nitrates? I do weekly water changes but they don't seem to be helping my nitrates. Thanks for the advice.

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před rokem

      Did you recharge the Purigen? Just curious.
      You’re best bet with those nitrate numbers is big water changes, 80%. Check your tap and be sure you’re not adding nitrates from your tap.

    • @christopherkeene8380
      @christopherkeene8380 Před rokem

      @@BenOchart Thanks for the response. No- i did not recharge the purigen so i wondered if doing so would help my nitrate issue. I tested my tap and it does have nitrites which i have been treating with Prime during water changes but no nitrates. I wonder if the nitrite load from my tap is the cause of my high nitrates? Makes me hesitant to do more water changes. Thanks again for the advice!

  • @aarongibson9039
    @aarongibson9039 Před 3 měsíci

    How much Pooran should I use for my 30 gallon fish tanks?

  • @sploekgriffy1402
    @sploekgriffy1402 Před 3 lety

    I love watching videos like this. It’s a good way to find out how not to do things in your aquarium. If the video you are watching is contradicting everything else you see on CZcams, ignore it

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 3 lety +1

      Tell me more? I ask because I have found some "common knowledge" shared by many on CZcams to be wrong and with that in mind I don't think we should reject something immediately just because the it doesn't agree with the masses. Did I misunderstand your comment?

    • @ahappyimago
      @ahappyimago Před 3 lety

      Ben Ochart that guy wrote a very confusing comment

  • @russellturner579
    @russellturner579 Před 3 lety

    Ben I been run expertmatic could I run the little small charcoal pebbles inside the tubes the stuff that came with it doesn't do the job please let me no i have a yellow tent to my water driving me nuts

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 3 lety +1

      You either need to swap out for fresh charcoal or you need more than the Xpertmatic can hold. I suggest putting some in a mesh bag and putting it in another filter (or the bottom chamber of the X-Matic)

  • @shaz447
    @shaz447 Před 3 lety

    Ben In your video " canister filter cleaning" you put purigen just after mechanical filter. And now in this video you suggest last. Y this contradictory suggestions. Please clarify this view. I have bought purigen. Where shall i actually keep it. Thank you🙏

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 3 lety

      Constantly evolving. Let the water hit your chemical media last before returning to the tank. That includes activated charcoal. In my more mature "seasoned" tanks I stopped using chemical filtration altogether.

  • @jensmith8404
    @jensmith8404 Před 8 měsíci +1

    hi Ben, want your opinion.. im running Purigen and Seachem Seagel..(my Seachem Pure *L).. ive used Chemi Pure Blue on my multi tank.. which of these do you think is the way to go or better?.. i don't recharge the Purigen, i toss every 2 months, the Seagel monthly..

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 8 měsíci

      Seachem Purigen is a great all purpose product. But once my tanks are established I don’t use any clarifying products.

    • @jensmith8404
      @jensmith8404 Před 7 měsíci

      thank you!@@BenOchart

  • @toothpicdinosaur3777
    @toothpicdinosaur3777 Před 3 lety +1

    I quit using chemical filtration a long time ago.

  • @bigbearddahuzi1036
    @bigbearddahuzi1036 Před 3 lety

    Ben, I know it's off topic, but could you help me with a question?
    I've been searching for a while and I am having a hard time finding any information on this.
    Have you - or anyone else on here - ever had problems with your sump intake sucking in sand? I am having a tank built soon, and everyone here (in China) is telling me you can't have sand with a sump/ wet dry filter. Which does not make sense considering the number of tanks I've seen using both. Not to mention reef tanks.
    Will a sump intake really pull sand all the way up the water column? My tank will be 30" tall. The weir is at the bottom, but the overflow is still at the top of the tank.
    A Lot of the tanks here draw the water to the sump directly from the bottom of the tank - which is fantastic if you have a bare bottom tank and a predilection for goldfish, arowana or flowerthorns. But not so great for Aficans or a panted tank.
    Do the tanks back home only draw water from the top of the tank? I was young when I had tanks in the states and I've never had a wet/dry filter before.
    Anyways, thank you for all the wonderful information you provide. I have learned a ton on this channel. I am hoping one of these days I will have a Sunday off and I can make it to a live chat while it is still live :)

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 3 lety

      Hello, I can only speak from experience and I have 1) never seen any substrate in my sump or overflow box and 2) I have never heard anyone mention it as a concern. I’ve seen sumps with the openings in the bottom and the seem like a flood hazard.

    • @bigbearddahuzi1036
      @bigbearddahuzi1036 Před 3 lety +2

      @@BenOchart Thank you Ben. We are heading out to order the tank today. Much obliged

    • @migueleespinosa2632
      @migueleespinosa2632 Před rokem

      @@bigbearddahuzi1036 it been awhile. How did your tank system work for you?

    • @alekkoomanoff7281
      @alekkoomanoff7281 Před rokem +1

      @@migueleespinosa2632 +

  • @Cougar139tweak
    @Cougar139tweak Před rokem +1

    @ 12:23 Just thinking if someone where to put the Chemical filtration before the Bio, might that slightly starve the Beneficial Bacteria and Archaea?
    Just curious

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před rokem +1

      The chemical filtration should be the last thing the water contacts before returning to the tank

    • @Cougar139tweak
      @Cougar139tweak Před rokem

      @@BenOchart assumed as much, have seen some other well known CZcams aquarists put the chemical filtration in the top basket, not the bottom. I don't think everyone who claims knowledge in this sphere always understands what "Chemical filtration" means....he even mentioned the bag was too small and water would "Pass by" it....🤨

  • @scottchristensen7794
    @scottchristensen7794 Před 2 lety +1

    I’ve used every different type of chemical filtration and there are some that will make your water absolutely crystal clear. Purigen makes your fish look like they’re floating on air, but the bags don’t last very long and the cost isn’t worth it. My water is clear enough without it. I don’t run chemicals in my filters at all anymore.

    • @GenRN
      @GenRN Před rokem

      Just FYI, the Purigen can be recharged with bleach so you can use it indefinitely (although they say only 10x but I think that is a sales tactic). I used it as a new fish keeper but haven’t for years but thinking about it again on a planted fancy goldfish tank because I have a dozen big fish with lots of plants and they are slobs. 😂

  • @nanettedezmond1175
    @nanettedezmond1175 Před rokem

    Can you use chemi pure with the filters or do you remove the filters

  • @sethat8e
    @sethat8e Před 3 lety +1

    Some unwanted bacteria actually consume activated carbon. Just something to think about.

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 3 lety +1

      Another good reason for tossing it out after a month and using it only when absolutely needed, like when removing residual medications from the water.

  • @Anytyme06
    @Anytyme06 Před 3 lety +1

    You can't recharge the carbon no matter what the manufacturer says.

  • @ghostrot
    @ghostrot Před 3 lety +3

    Why are American diy aquarium hoods so tall ?

  • @rhombifer566
    @rhombifer566 Před 11 měsíci

    Why would it affect your bacteria know really what you cannot that I can think up and I’ve been in Fish for over 30 years

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 11 měsíci +1

      I suspect it might be removing nutrients that BB need. Something like the idea that activated charcoal removes vital minerals that could lead to hole-in-the-head.

  • @VannessThao1988
    @VannessThao1988 Před 2 lety

    can we use both chemi pure and purigen at the same time?

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 2 lety

      I don't see why you couldn't (but I also don't see why you would want to?)

    • @VannessThao1988
      @VannessThao1988 Před 2 lety

      @@BenOchart ok thanks. im just wondering if it could help more or less.

  • @metallixro
    @metallixro Před 2 lety

    Is it like a proven scientific fact that active carbon removes ferts shouldnt be used in planted aquariums ? Cause no brands put warnings on the stuff "do not use if you have plants"... Maybe its safe to use in certain quantities according to tank sizes ? Also most filters of any type today that come with media come with active carbon

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 2 lety

      Chemical media like Chemipure and Purigen do have a warning and there’s a Chemipure Green that is plant safe. I’ve never seen a plant warning on an activated charcoal container.

  • @craigbroderick8935
    @craigbroderick8935 Před 3 lety +1

    How do I store the Purigen if I want to rest it for a month or so

    • @aussbasstony9763
      @aussbasstony9763 Před 3 lety

      Just store it in a small tub of water and prime. Don’t let it dry out for to long.

    • @craigbroderick8935
      @craigbroderick8935 Před 3 lety

      @@aussbasstony9763 thank you sir

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 3 lety +2

      Keep it moist, like in a sealed plastic zip lock bag

  • @siddharth9669
    @siddharth9669 Před 3 lety

    Subscribed

  • @andriymysyk9557
    @andriymysyk9557 Před 3 lety +2

    Ben, I think you are mixing up Seachem Pristine and Seachem Clarity. Pristine claims to remove sludge and is a bacteria non- chemical substance. Does not seem to work for anyone though 😆 Clarity is a bonding agent that enhances mechanical filtration.

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 3 lety +1

      Yes, I mention the mix up in the comments below the video ... but who ever reads those, LOL. Thanks!

    • @johntaylor8196
      @johntaylor8196 Před 3 lety

      Actually I use pristine and stability both by seachem and I can tell a difference in me I stopped using pristine for amount of time to see if I could tell a difference and you really can't or my opinion anyways you can as far as the stability goes I've use it and it may be a placebo effect but I don't have any trouble with my tanks I've not had a bacteria die off or an ammonia Spike or anything like that since I've been using it but I also do good maintenance on my tanks so it may just be a placebo effect that I'm experiencing with it but it doesn't cost that much you only put a little bit in when you're doing your water changes and I've definitely not seeing any adverse effects from it and I've used it for a little over a year now

    • @andriymysyk9557
      @andriymysyk9557 Před 3 lety

      @@johntaylor8196 Used Stability to set up a brand new tank. Zero effect. After 3 weeks ammonia still stayed at 2-3. Got tired of it and asked a buddy for filter sludge and some plants. 3 days and I was cycled. It is a scam.
      Look up Cory's video at Aquarium Coop. They tested Pristine for 6 months in 2 tanks. One with and one without. Same setup, load, filtration. Could not see the effect.
      I do use Prime and Stress Guard. Those are great. Their Clarity seems to work too.

  • @fisharefriends598
    @fisharefriends598 Před 3 lety

    Only chemical I’d use is carbon sponge.. and polyfilter ..
    Purigen nope, had too many bad experience with product

    • @aussbasstony9763
      @aussbasstony9763 Před 3 lety

      What are the bad you’ve herd about Purigen myself and many friends have never had a problem.

    • @sed6
      @sed6 Před 2 lety

      Yeah like what???

  • @tropicalstreamaquatics9285

    I use purigen and poly filter with my discus tanks.i do recharger purigen with no problems, goldfish lives matter

  • @sambaldwin3730
    @sambaldwin3730 Před 3 lety

    every time i go to your facebook page it says unavailable any help would be great

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 3 lety

      I tried to invite you directly but came up empty when I searched for "sam baldwin" ??? Are you using a different name on FB?

    • @sambaldwin3730
      @sambaldwin3730 Před 3 lety

      @@BenOchart samuel baldwin ll

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 3 lety

      @@sambaldwin3730 Try using this link: facebook.com/groups/ben.o.cichlid

  • @fishiemon64
    @fishiemon64 Před 3 lety +2

    Ben don't you sleep 😴

  • @wearefishlover
    @wearefishlover Před 3 lety

    I am not using

  • @aussbasstony9763
    @aussbasstony9763 Před 3 lety +1

    Purigen Judy gives the water an edge and makes the fish seem like they are floating in the air👍

  • @gdorfxoxo9657
    @gdorfxoxo9657 Před rokem

    Carbon will have carbon dust too and it smells funny... I'd rather use poly fil

  • @williamthomas8135
    @williamthomas8135 Před rokem

    Cost and Labor is the reason I would not use Chemical Filtration. but you give me free pouches of resins and carbon, I will use them happily.

  • @hollowpoint1057
    @hollowpoint1057 Před rokem

    Purigen does not contain carbon and does not remove medications or fertilizers

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před rokem

      You’re right about the carbon. It’s a type of reason. On the medications, here’s what Seachem, the maker of Purigen, has to say: “Purigen® can be used alongside most supplements and types of filtration media, but is capable of removing some types of medication from the water. Purigen® should not be used alongside medications for this reason.”
      seachem.zendesk.com › articles

  • @high_fructose_corn_syrup

    Can someone answer some questions for me?
    So this will take all ammonia, nitrite and nitrates away?
    Will using this starve my plants from nitrates?
    Will this work in a koi pond filter? For a 2500g pond (Yeah I know id need a lot of it lol)
    Does it ever need to be fully replaced? If so, how often? I can imagine the price id be paying to always replace it for my koi pond.
    Will this help keep brown algae away in my fish tank and green pea soup algae away in my pond?
    Will this make water more safe for neocaridina shrimp?
    Pleaseee someone help me lol this is the first time ive heard of this stuff and definitely something im interested in!

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před rokem

      The best resource to get your questions answered is the Seachem and the Boyd websites.

  • @Desperado070
    @Desperado070 Před 3 lety

    Beside prime, none

  • @eues803
    @eues803 Před 3 lety +1

    Sorry, the name is:
    Maxspech bio media.

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 3 lety

      I’ve heard of it and contacted them about trying it out. I don’t think they got back to me.

  • @aquariumtreasures1054
    @aquariumtreasures1054 Před 3 lety

    😊👍

  • @craigbroderick8935
    @craigbroderick8935 Před 3 lety

    First

  • @edwardjonesjr2519
    @edwardjonesjr2519 Před 3 lety +2

    In my opinion, waste of money. Maybe run carbon after medication or new piece of driftwood. I just bought Chemipure Blue, and won't be buying again. Haven't noticed a difference in water clarity, my water was already clear prior to using.

    • @Chris-nn3vu
      @Chris-nn3vu Před 3 lety +1

      Same here but with purigen. So much hype yet when i try it, no difference just use filter floss

    • @bojangles2492
      @bojangles2492 Před 3 lety

      In your case, if your water is already clear then there is probably no point using it.

  • @morenaso8019
    @morenaso8019 Před 3 lety

    Just like u I stopped using chemical filtrations for while now. I live in NY and I was stuck in Miami for 4 months due the pandemic. I wasn’t able to do a water change for on my tank, didn’t loose not one fish water, no ammonia spike nothing water levels were good. It all about filtration

    • @VinnysAquatics
      @VinnysAquatics Před 3 lety

      Where abouts in NY? Stamford Ct here...👍

    • @eues803
      @eues803 Před 3 lety

      Here in PT, y can find it for € 21,00 Euros, it seems to be better thank Marine Pure as according to the infomations that i got at these site and on the CZcams.

  • @billlooker2689
    @billlooker2689 Před 2 lety

    If your in the road for 3 to 4 weeks and only home 4 to 5 day's would you have a 7 fish tank's? All the wife will do is feed them

    • @BenOchart
      @BenOchart  Před 2 lety

      Very risky

    • @billlooker2689
      @billlooker2689 Před 2 lety

      @@BenOchart have for over 25 years. It's about stocking level. I've never lost a tank. I lost a reef tank when the power went out for over a week in a hurricane years ago so I don't do saltwater anymore.

  • @spy8464BB
    @spy8464BB Před 4 měsíci

    Seachem says purigen will not affect pH. Not true. Use your pH test kit and you will see that purigen will lower your pH. Why the lies?

  • @connorcorbeil3974
    @connorcorbeil3974 Před 2 lety +1

    Am I the only that thinks he sounds like Alec Baldwin

  • @joakimdjerv4488
    @joakimdjerv4488 Před 2 lety

    😊👍