Diy Moving Bed Filter In Aquarium
Keeping an aquarium can be a beautiful and rewarding hobby. However, it requires a lot of work and maintenance to keep the environment healthy for fish and other aquatic creatures. One of the most important aspects of aquarium maintenance is filtration. A good filtration system helps to keep the water clean and healthy for your fish. While there are many commercial filters available in the market, it's always better to create your own DIY filter.
What is a Moving Bed Filter?
A moving bed filter is a type of biological filter that uses a submerged bed of media to house beneficial bacteria. These bacteria help to break down harmful ammonia and nitrite in the aquarium water, converting them into less harmful nitrate. The media bed moves continuously, which helps to expose the bacteria to oxygen and nutrients, allowing them to thrive and multiply.
Materials Needed
To create a DIY moving bed filter, you will need the following materials:
- A plastic container with a lid (size depends on the size of your aquarium)
- Air pump and airline tubing
- Air stone
- Bio media (plastic balls or ceramic rings)
- Aquarium filter sponge
- Filter floss
- Plastic mesh
- Silicone sealant
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Moving Bed Filter
Follow these steps to create your DIY moving bed filter:
- Start by drilling a hole in the container lid. The hole should be big enough to fit the airline tubing.
- Connect the airline tubing to the air pump and the air stone. Place the air stone in the container.
- Fill the container with bio media, leaving some space at the top for the filter sponge and filter floss.
- Cut the filter sponge to fit the top of the container. Place it on top of the bio media.
- Cut the plastic mesh to fit the filter sponge. Place it on top of the filter sponge.
- Cut the filter floss to fit the plastic mesh. Place it on top of the plastic mesh.
- Seal the edges of the lid with silicone sealant to prevent water from leaking out.
- Attach the airline tubing to the hole in the lid.
- Place the container in your aquarium.
How to Maintain your Moving Bed Filter
While a DIY moving bed filter requires less maintenance than other filters, it still needs to be cleaned regularly. Follow these steps to maintain your filter:
- Turn off the air pump and remove the lid.
- Remove the filter floss and plastic mesh and rinse them with aquarium water.
- Rinse the filter sponge with aquarium water.
- Take out the bio media and rinse it with aquarium water. Do not use tap water since it can kill the beneficial bacteria.
- Replace the filter floss and plastic mesh.
- Place the bio media back in the container.
- Close the lid and turn on the air pump.
Conclusion
Creating a DIY moving bed filter is a great way to save money and provide a healthy environment for your fish. With a few simple materials and some basic tools, you can create a filter that is as effective as a commercial filter. Remember to clean your filter regularly to keep it working efficiently.