Bio-wheel with no bio-wheel.

[O ALX O]

I wouldn't take the wheels out. I have the Tidepool wet/dry filter and it has a huge bio-filter wheel that really lets the nitrogen cycle take place.
Not to mention that I also own 2 Penguin 350-B's that also do a great job of enhancing the nitrogen cycle on other tanks I have.

Of course do not forget this is a personal preference and not by any means written into law.

 

[Marconis]

The only reason I'd really do it is because of the noise. My tank is in my bedroom so noise is a pretty big factor. With it in and water level only about a mm above the lip, I can hear the water dripping down on the plastic and it gets irritating. When thhe level lowers, it gets even louder. If I take it out, all that can be heard is the humming from the filter, which I don't mind because I'm used to having a computer in my room and I find it rather relaxing. I have the wheel in for cycling, and after I get fish I am going to keep it in for a few days, then take it out and see how my parameters are doing.

 

[tropicfishman]

I agree with lonewolfblue, any other time, if something such as ceramic rings, bio balls, etc. isn't used than the bio wheel is important for beneficial bacteria growth to help maintain a healthy tank and fish

 

[Idealconcepts]

Marconis - If noise is a concern you might want to look at getting canister. What size tank are we talking about by the way? If you can justify spending the $ you can get a ehiem, from what I have read and what people have written, these guys are super quiet and relieable. You can also go with a Rena XP's, they are cheaper and I have been told slightly louder than the ehiem, some people say they can't really tell. Or you could try a Aqua Clear, people have said they are quieter than the Peguin and Emps, but the one I got about a month ago seems to chatter alot, until I tap the top and then it goes away. Good luck and keep us posted.

 

[Marconis]

Sparky, for that link you gave me a while back of that material. that never has to be replaced? Would that, one filter cartridge and no bio wheel be okay?