Filter Media for Fluval 404

[chadthedad]

I need to get filter media for my Fluval 404. I plan on filling it mostly with biofilter material like the Fluval Biomax variety. I was wondering if anyone uses something more generic or less expensive? I have found that many people find uses for other products for there aquariums (i.e. pool filter sand, 3M colorquartz, nylons, etc.) I just thought I would see what was out there as an alternative to the Biomax stuff.

Thanks!

 

[Fishyfanatic]

In my filters I have the standard black sponge, cermic rings (this can be any brand), and filter floss. You can get filter floss at Wal-Mart a lot cheaper than the lfs. It's basically craft bating. I think a big bag of it is somewhere around $5. I spent $35 at the lfs for the same size bag. The only thing you will ever have to replace is the filter floss.

 

[Zagz]

Another really good and inexpensive item is plastic pot scrubbers. Not the antibacterial kind. I get them 3 for a $1.00, and use them in all my cannisters. They act exactly the same as plastic bio balls for a fraction of the cost. For filter floss I buy bulk 100% polyester batting for pillows from Walmart. Again, not the antibacterial or hypo allergenic kind and cut my own sizes. I have several tanks, so I need to keep costs down.

 

[Jchillin]

Another really good and inexpensive item is plastic pot scrubbers. Not the antibacterial kind. I get them 3 for a $1.00, and use them in all my cannisters. They act exactly the same as plastic bio balls for a fraction of the cost. For filter floss I buy bulk 100% polyester batting for pillows from Walmart. Again, not the antibacterial or hypo allergenic kind and cut my own sizes. I have several tanks, so I need to keep costs down.

Finally...the secret to maintaining all those tanks!!!

I don't have nearly as many tanks as Zagz but I use the filter floss trick as well.