10 gallon apisto setups...

[Mike Wise]

Question; why don't you have a lift tube on the sponge filter? It will increase filtration considerably. Right now the filter has almost no 'draw' (water exchange flowing through it).

 

[JasonC]

Well, honestly did not know that had an effect... Mike, whats the rule of thumb on this, longer the lift tube, higher the draw? I have removed several of mine because they end up sitting above the water line... should I just cut them down a bit, or does it not matter if they are above water?

 

[Angelman]

I just moved the tank and did not install it. Thanks for the reminder

 

[Mike Wise]

The actual draw depends on several factors: tube diameter, air flow rate (if air is used), and tube height. Ideally, the tube should end at the water line for the best draw. Just cut it to the desired length if too long. If short, just accept it and let it do its best.

 

[edwliang]

Question; why don't you have a lift tube on the sponge filter? It will increase filtration considerably. Right now the filter has almost no 'draw' (water exchange flowing through it).

what is a lift tube like? are you talking about my set up?

 

[Mike Wise]

The lift tube is the tube through which air forces water to flow up from the sponge filter and then out into the aquarium. This causes lower pressure in the sponge and water to flow into the sponge to replace the water pushed up the lift tube. I as asking Angelman about his sponge filters. Your sponge filters are of a different construction, but do have lift tubes.