Filter intake height question

[FishN00b83]

How high off the substrate should the filter intake be? I have a Eheim 2217 I am setting up, but the end of the intake touches the bottom of the tank. Im guessing I should cut it, but to what length? I have a 40 breeder tank with about 2 inches of eco complete.

[Aquadestroyer]

I usually give 2-4 inches of clearance

[FishN00b83]

thats what I thought...I guess I'll just chop off 4 inches

[Ant329]

That eheim does up to 160g.. That tank should be spotless lol.. I would say also about 4 or 5 inches from bottom

[FishN00b83]

Originally Posted by Ant329

That eheim does up to 160g.. That tank should be spotless lol.. I would say also about 4 or 5 inches from bottom

Yea I know it might be overkill, but I got a really good deal on a new one on ebay.

I have it 4" from the bottom, 2" from the substrate

[Ant329]

I dont believe their can be too much filtration, however keep an eye on your ph level, too much water movement caused by a powerhead or filter flow can lower it as i was told.. More so with powerhead but still keep an eye out

[FishN00b83]

Originally Posted by Ant329

I dont believe their can be too much filtration, however keep an eye on your ph level, too much water movement caused by a powerhead or filter flow can lower it as i was told.. More so with powerhead but still keep an eye out

Thats really odd, I wonder why/how water movement would effect ph levels.

[Ant329]

I was told that at my lfs, but found it hard to believe as well.. I dont have a powerhead otherwise id try it.. Anyone see a difference while using one? I try not to always listen to the lfs people but sometimes they are helpful..