
The only thing I'd warn against is don't cut the plastic tubes too short. Initially we cut them to suit our exact needs, but we later changed the height of our aquarium and for the new set-up the tubes were too short to reach the top. We didn't leave ourselves any extra, so don't make the same mistake we did.
Buy API Filstar XP-S Canister Filter Now
I purchased this filter from Big Al's at about the same prize as Amazon had it. It is for one of my turtle tanks, two sliders on a 40 gallon breeder with about 12 gallon total volume. After a fairly easy initial set-up (you'll have to grease the hoses with vaseline for them to go in all the way) and priming following detailed instructions (the canister is currently located at the same level as the aquarium water, making it a bit tricky to completely fill in the canister compartments), I noticed at times a gargling noise, the canister was taking micro-bubbles. Upon further inspection I noticed a small leak from the electric line outlet at the motor housing. I thought maybe I got a Dud, however, instead of returning or calling for technical support, I decided to fill in around the cable with some of my aquarium safe silicon and ...vuala, the leak was corrected as well as the noise. Now what I have is a very powerful filter (it cleaned my turtle tank in a matter of minutes), crystal clear water, nice outflow through a spraybar outlet and it's even quieter than my eheim eccho. So quiet you can barely hear a faint huming...If I didn't see the spray bar outflow, I would have to put my ear on it, or touch it to feel the vibration and see if it's working. I also disconected the tubing valve, for a test maintenance rehearsal to know that it will be very easy to do so when required. Also you don't have to prime again since the hoses seal once you separate the tubing valve from the canister motor compartment. Just lift the level, a clean, easy and dry operation. Clean-up will be a breeze. Overall I'm very satisfied with this baby, I would have given it a 5 star ratings if it wasn't for the the initial water/air leak described above (maybe a manufacturing defect on my unit). I would remommend this to a friend and I would certainly buy again. I'll have to monitor long term performance, but so far, I'm satisfied with this product. If you decide to buy this filter, consider an upgrade to the xp2 or xp3. I know I would.I have used differen canister filters in the past for my fresh water 55 gal aquarium. Fluval and Marineland. So far this one is my favorite. It runs so quiet compared to the other ones I cannot hear it at all. The only problem I had was trying to fit the hose into the tubing. It is quite a task. But one it is done, it is a filter I am the most content with.I have a 20 gallon turtle tank and it has been SPOTLESS every since I bought this product on July 10th, 2012. The filter is a bit difficult to assemble but it is totally worth it. (there are also tutorials on youtube to help you assemble it step by step) The tubes are a bit tight fitting so MAKE SURE you use some olive oil, veggie oil, or vaseline so they slide on easier. The filter is super silent and the pressure of the water coming out of can be turned up for even more cleaning power or tuned down for silence while you sleep. Hand down best turtle filter I have ever owned. There is not one speck of algae, food, or poop on the floor. Totally worth the money. This has made owning a turtle the easiest task on the planet. I plan to move up to a bigger size tank because I know this filter can handle it. I LOVE IT. Highly recommend this filter to anyone with a turtle tank under 45 gallons.
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