API Filstar xp-L (3) or API Filstar xp-XL (4)??

abayomiabys

abayomiabys

AC Members
Oct 6, 2007
24
0
1
Hi there,

I currently have a API (rena) Filstar xp-3 for my 90 gallon full planted tank. I also run a turbo twist uv Sterilizer.

My Filstar has been running much slower and the pin inside keeps falling out, it's many years old,mat least 6 or more years... So I think it's time to purchase a new one.

Should I get the API Filstar xp-L (3) or API Filstar xp-XL (4)?? I was told to go with a XL (4) as it has more water flow although wouldn't this be too big? Too much water flow? I thought because I run the UV sterilizer the water flow should be on the slower side verses after side or it won't work wel.

Any advise would be appreciated.

Thanks

Tracy
 
abayomiabys said:
Hi there,

I currently have a API (rena) Filstar xp-3 for my 90 gallon full planted tank. I also run a turbo twist uv Sterilizer.

My Filstar has been running much slower and the pin inside keeps falling out, it's many years old,mat least 6 or more years... So I think it's time to purchase a new one.

Should I get the API Filstar xp-L (3) or API Filstar xp-XL (4)?? I was told to go with a XL (4) as it has more water flow although wouldn't this be too big? Too much water flow? I thought because I run the UV sterilizer the water flow should be on the slower side verses after side or it won't work wel.

Any advise would be appreciated.

Thanks

"....... I will add that I have a 90 gallon and the Filstar xp 3 (Or now called the L) does up to 175 gallons and the Filstar xp 4 ( now called the XL) does up to 265 gallons. Isn't the xp 4 TOO MUCH. For a 90 gallon? An Aquarium store told me to go with the larger one but though I was told a couple years ago when I added my UV Steratizer that the water should be a little slower verses faster. I have a xp 3 for my tank right now.

Any help would me muchly appreciated. I need to replace my filter and want to be sure to get the best option.

Thanks so much

Tracy
Click to expand...
 
pbeemer said:
does the specs for the UV light have a maximum / preferred flow rate?
Click to expand...
Great question....

So I have a Turbo Twist UV Sterilizer 6x ... It says 110 GPH for parasites, 240 GPH for algae and 550 GPH for Bacteria.
The API Rena Filstar xp3 (L) has a flow rate of 350 GPH and the xp4 (XL) has a flow rate of 450 GPH

Doesn't the flow rate slow with the more filter pads you have in the filter canister?

I do have a luge growing at times and try and reduce the ammount of light and keep up with my water changes.

Any comments on which filter I should invest in... The xp3 (L) or the xp4 (XL)? Or additional comments regarding the flow rates and parasites, algae and bacteria?

Thanks so much for your reply.

Tracy
 
S
abayomiabys said:
Great question....

So I have a Turbo Twist UV Sterilizer 6x ... It says 110 GPH for parasites, 240 GPH for algae and 550 GPH for Bacteria.
The API Rena Filstar xp3 (L) has a flow rate of 350 GPH and the xp4 (XL) has a flow rate of 450 GPH

Doesn't the flow rate slow with the more filter pads you have in the filter canister?

I do have a luge growing at times and try and reduce the ammount of light and keep up with my water changes.

Any comments on which filter I should invest in... The xp3 (L) or the xp4 (XL)? Or additional comments regarding the flow rates and parasites, algae and bacteria?

Thanks so much for your reply.

Tracy
Click to expand...

SORRY... That was... I do have ALGAE growing.
 
Why the need for the UV?

Not sure which pin you're referring to, but pretty much every replacement part can be had online for API filstar canisters. Maybe you can repair the filter you have.
 
Thanks for your reply. I'm not sure what is wrong with my Filstar and am nervous about replacing arts if it doesn't solve the problem. It's hot really low flow so not sure why and I notices the impeller pin keeps falling out. I had someone originally set it up and add co2 as it's fully planted, and then got the UV sterilizer to keep the algae down and keep the tank healthier.

I called coralife for my turbo twister uv sterilizer this morning and they said I should have an inline pump for it instead of adding it into my filter. Then I don't have to worry about the GPH with my filter. Not sure what I am going to do at this point. I will have to find more information on how to set it up that way and see. Feeling a little overwhelmed with what to do.... Separate my UV from my F ilstar and get an inline pump and then buy a new Filstar 4 (XL) or but the Filstar 3 (L) again and keep it connected to my UV sterilizer. The lady was talking by hour back pressure on the pump if it's connected to the UV sterilizer.

Hoping I am able to get some advice here. :o)

Tracy
 
if i understand what you said, if the impeller pin keeps falling out you just need to get a new impeller for the filter. shouldn't be that expensive. they can wear out fast if there was silt in the water for even a short while, but otherwise last for years.

every few filter cleanings you should check the filter to see whether there is some kind of crud collecting in there -- usually long, fibrous plant material that gets past whatever filter (if any) you have on the siphon intake.

pumps can normally take a significant amount of backpressure; it makes them run a little hotter, but should not otherwise affect pump operation. the existing pump ought to be able to push water thru the UV filter, assuming that you can plumb it properly (no long runs or elbow turns).

pumps can not tolerate restrictions on the intake, since if the pump is sucking harder than the intake can provide flow, the water cavitates -- pulls a vacuum and generates air/vapor bubbles which can tear up the impeller pretty quickly

the marketing promise of 175 gpm rating is perhaps a little optimistic, even without the small backpressure from the UV filter. however, the limiting factor for the flow rate is whether you have a large bioload in your tank
 
First of all, like others have said, you can probably fix it easily. I have two Rena XP3's that are over ten years old. Parts are readily available. Google them and there is a number you can call to speak to someone. They will be very helpful. While you are at it, buy the gasket kit. Always good to have on hand.

If you do consider buying a replacement, the XP4 will not be too much. I run two XP3's, and an XP4 on a 120G. However, do be sure you have enough space for the XP4. It is taller than the XP3, and if going into a stand under the tank, better to measure first.

I'd fix the one you have, and add another XP3. You can't have too much filtration. Plus, you can clean one without disturbing the other, and if one really does fail, you have one still running and it's not an emergency while you wait for parts.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
AquariaCentral.com
Top Bottom