HagenKB

Fluval Pre-Filter versus BioMax Rings

What is the difference between BioMax and Fluval Pre-Filter? Aren't they basically the same?

What is the difference between BioMax and Fluval Pre-Filter? Aren't they basically the same?
Ceramic Pre-Filter is used to remove large particulate matter from the passing water. This was most often used in older models of the Fluval line, generally before the 04 series. We are presently on the 05 series. It is a solid ceramic ring and provides course mechanical filtration almost exclusively. It should be used in the first chamber to remove debris that could otherwise clog filter media that has smaller opening such as carbon.

BioMax is an extremely porous ceramic ring, it is not solid at all, but thoroughly infiltrated by thousands of tunnels and caves throughout the material. These tunnels and caves offer a huge surface area, both externally and internally to support huge populations of beneficial bacteria that reduce ammonia to nitrite and then nitrite to nitrate. The pore structure becomes easily clogged by passing debris, and as such should be positioned after the majority of mechanical particulate straining has been done.

BioMax is an important weapon in the constant struggle to control ammonia produced by the fish and other inhabitants of the aquatic system, so it is highly recommended as one of the filter materials used in any powered filter. The pre-filter's job, on the other hand, has pretty much been eliminated with the inclusion of a foam screen used in all Fluval Canister filters since the initial Fluval 04 generation was introduced. The foam removes the large wastes and actually fives a finer screen to the system than the pre-filter was ever designed to do, thus its use has diminished greatly over the past few years.

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