Want more tips and tricks to care for your fish? Check out these playlists! Best Fish Keeping Tips Playlist is here: kzitem.info/door/PLr8ew8o8WXoDLeItfzOiRG8DV-1W9qNX4 Lowering and Controlling Nitrates Playlist is here: kzitem.info/door/PLr8ew8o8WXoD-pzZaHgtIFqurG9HZn2zz Every Live Stream is Here: kzitem.info/door/PLr8ew8o8WXoApHjaPfc6rdr7oipfEbZ-k The Water Change Tips & Tricks Playlist is here: kzitem.info/door/PLr8ew8o8WXoCdEYkD0rQa0OWejFk5-bHD SunSun Canister Filter Playlist is here: kzitem.info/door/PLr8ew8o8WXoCiMWEpBFJFJGxTqJH_MdMg Fluval Canister Filter Playlist is here: kzitem.info/door/PLr8ew8o8WXoC8gSuqdG1c4nOzlAMFTmiD
@jaymiller3238
5 жыл бұрын
I'm a firm believer in purchasing the best filtration equipment you can afford, and there's no denying that Fluval has a reputation for building some of the best. But every time I see the FX6 with its 8 separate thumbscrews for removing the cover, a pump that requires a screwdriver and 4 screws to service, not to mention that weird-ass arrangement of circular media trays, I just want to hug my "cheap" SunSun and never let it go.
@thongtran9784
Жыл бұрын
lol
@boebender
Жыл бұрын
This is a vastly underrated reply 😂🙏🏽
@WhiteSandsMbuna
8 ай бұрын
I have an fx4 and I agree. The good thing is, running two big canisters i do not seevice them often. The fx4 and 6 have a cool feature of a service port to pump water in and out of the tank. There are some times this comes in handy
@delonjohnson5907
3 ай бұрын
I've had fx6 and others and can say fluval is way overrated. I've seen homemade bucked and power head setup outperform fluval
@kingofrannoch
Ай бұрын
You only have 8 thumbscrews? Where do I find that model 😂
@johnd3579
3 жыл бұрын
My first Fluval canister was a Fluval 403. It worked for 12 years. It would take a massive failure to lose me as a loyal customer.
@robertopagan5809
5 жыл бұрын
Try comparing the fluval fx6 and sunsuns HW 5000. They’re closer in size.
@GSP-76
5 жыл бұрын
I can give input on the Sunsun HW3000. It's an excellent canister and pushes a lot of water and is backwards compatible to the 304/704 impeller and trays. It has a much better method of attaching to the aquarium than the Fluval. The biggest advantage of the 3000 would be the adjustable flow rate and timer for the UV bulb.
@BenOchart
5 жыл бұрын
That's great info GP. I might check one out.
@kumarsa108
3 жыл бұрын
UV just seems a waste, it would be better if they could integrate a heater into the filter.
@TechforTechs
5 жыл бұрын
Good work Ben, shame about the leak, not had any issues with mine (have 2 FX6) in the 2-3 years i have had them, but bonus is if anything goes wrong getting parts for the FX6 is easy and you dont need to replace the whole system (this is Phil BTW (logo maker))
@GSP-76
5 жыл бұрын
Getting Sunsun parts is easy too...and Sunsun models are backwards compatible to one another.
@TechforTechs
5 жыл бұрын
@@GSP-76 That's good, supply and demand my be different over here then as they are re-branded as All Pond Solutions here (UK)
@GSP-76
5 жыл бұрын
@@TechforTechs it wasn't always like that... before Sunsun got really popular, there were no impellers or replacement trays available and you had to buy another filter...but now things are better..the FX6 is a great filter too but it's really in the class of the Sunsun HW3000 not the 704b. I think the 3000 is the best overall canister filter on the market, hopefully Ben gets one in the near future.
@Bearskimethod
5 жыл бұрын
Cost vs performance! Sunsun every time ! 💪🏻
@jamiestamand4840
4 жыл бұрын
I agree. I'm getting the 704B myself.
@wyomingadventures
5 жыл бұрын
My experience with these are love the sunsun canister no leaks, started right up, was easy to get air out and very quite. I had trouble with the Fluval. And I love the price of sunsun can't beat that when on a budget. Great video
@BenOchart
5 жыл бұрын
That price point is a huge factor. The two SunSun 302-Bs on the 60 gal grow-out have been running 24/7 for 4 years and never a problem.
@saahir68
4 жыл бұрын
Do you recommend sunsun over any German make?
@tlclark65
3 жыл бұрын
I've had fluval canister and it was a pain in the rear to clean and also had a couple of the components to break. Just bought a Sunsun and I can tell already it's going to be a huge improvement in cleaning and maintenance
@BenOchart
3 жыл бұрын
I’ve been happy with my SunSuns (especially the price)😀👍🏻
@TheHillmom
5 жыл бұрын
I run a Sun Sun 303B with a 603 prefilter on my 30 gallons. The fish I have in it like a slower flow, so the reduced flow isn't an issue. It is doing a great job. While some things, like priming, are a little more difficult, it came down to budget. I'm happy with the Sun Sun purchase, and my fish seem to like it too.
@josephkool8411
3 жыл бұрын
I have the intake hose of my 303b connected directly to an ATI sponge and use that as a pre filter
@pathornell7149
Жыл бұрын
Hi Ben, correct me if I’m wrong but if you push out that little valve you may find it has a seal ring inside. I had an fx4 that started leaking around the input valve, so I went onto KZitem to see what the issues could be. I found a KZitemr showing all the seal rings I didn’t even know my canister had. He showed how to push out these valves and grease them. Well, I did that and the leaking stopped. Now, I just received my first fx6 so I’m not sure if this is the case for a seal ring, it might be worth a look to see if there is indeed a ring inside that is needing some oiling. They tend to get brittle with all the warm water going through the valves. Push out the flat end and take a look. It would be interesting to see if there is one in there. On the other hand I’m sure you don’t want to take it apart again just to have to replace it. Once you receive the other one let us us know if you found a seal ring. I would love to know. Cathy, from Edmonton Alberta Canada.
@BenOchart
Жыл бұрын
I think there is an O ring in there that got grinded down by some black sand that got into the filter. The valve is easy to remove but it's not easy to get to the O ring inside.
@thomasedwards9101
3 жыл бұрын
🤔 the Fluval is better in term of over all power and build quality. The SunSun is better in terms of simplicity and amount of media it can hold. If the Fluval had trays like the SunSun or if the SunSun was built like the Fluval then that would be a near perfect filter.
@BenOchart
3 жыл бұрын
I agree
@paulone65
5 жыл бұрын
never used the fx6, i only have sun sun canister filter and work good for me
@travisconover4762
4 жыл бұрын
Until the day it leaks everywhere on you. Ounce the gasket goes tons of water dumps out then you will hate that unit
@xxx-nj9jp
3 жыл бұрын
@@travisconover4762 That's a general problem for all, i guess!
@RachyNoodleNest
3 жыл бұрын
If you used the FX6 you'd use words like 'amazing' rather than 'good' 😝
@mostlycensored7668
5 жыл бұрын
My dun sun has ran for 5+ years. Getting a bit noisy but still plenty of flow.
@musk-eteer9898
2 жыл бұрын
SunSun for me, thanks.
@jessedean3738
5 жыл бұрын
the sponges in the fx6 are also bio media, even if theyre mainly used to remove debris from the water, the sponges still house bacteria along with the bio media (rings balls etc) a better comparison would be say another cannistor filter of around the same size but a higher price mark likea sunsun to an aquaone etc, the fx6 would be better off compared to say a standard lowtech sump
@simplybod
Жыл бұрын
I don't understand why people look past the fact that any surface area in a filter houses bacteria, you could just fill a filter with nothing but sponge and the bacteria would still thrive, bio media is just snake oil
@mediscusnut7994
Жыл бұрын
h HI BEN, really enjoy your channel ,have you ever thought of becoming a presenter on tv, your a natural in front of camera in your presentation style and manner.......apart from that your channel also gives honest unsponsored opinion on products. anyway if you ever get a chance try out the AQUAEL ALTRAMAX 2000 ,A great filter just one of the many brands i use at the minute .Best of luck and health to you from IRELAND .Martin.
@BenOchart
Жыл бұрын
Very nice of you Martin. I was in Ireland this past summer. Fell in love with it. I did some videos on Seahorse Aquariums just outside of Dublin. Great shop with great people.
@mediscusnut7994
Жыл бұрын
I watched that video. Really glad you enjoyed your time in our part of the world. Keep up the good work. Hope you got into a pub or two aswell .👍👍
@Nobodyspecial5150
Жыл бұрын
Fluval fx6 all day everyday ❤
@Blimpus
5 жыл бұрын
Great video Ben. I am of the belief that I don't like a shop vac for my canister. I know i am in a minority on this , but I would take 2 Sun Sun canister filters anyday over that beast.
@BenOchart
5 жыл бұрын
You know me Blimpus, I love back-up and redundancy so I tend to agree with you. Two 704-Bs used to keep my 135 spotless.
@JohnT2088
5 жыл бұрын
Its like comparing a low end product to a high end lol 😆. Fx6 overall better than everything compare to the sunsun brand. But it doesn’t mean you need a fx6 for your setup. I run two sun sun on my 125 gallon and its fine for most average hobbyists out there. Nothing wrong getting the fx6 since its a beast but its like 3x the price 😉🤔
@BenOchart
5 жыл бұрын
All good points!
@gtlmike843
5 жыл бұрын
Another honest and fair assessment based on your own experiences.. this is why your the man!! thanks
@BenOchart
5 жыл бұрын
Much appreciated Mike!
@mattbauer979
4 жыл бұрын
I have an FX6 and I think it is a great filter but i would not buy it again. If I had to do it over I would purchase two smaller filters for redundancy. Regarding the bio-filtration differences - It is interesting that many people discount the biofilter capability of sponges. I have run many tanks with only sponge filters as do many professionals. Moving the biofilter media from the FX6 into the SunSun is a bit misleading demo as the massive amount of sponges is not taken into account
@BenOchart
4 жыл бұрын
Which two smaller (for redundancy) canisters would you go with, instead of an FX-6, if you could do it over?
@mattbauer979
4 жыл бұрын
@@BenOchart I would go with two Eheim Pro 4+ 600 Filters which would cost similar to a single FX-6. I would then add power heads if additional circulation was desired. The Eheim filters are pretty underwhelming when it comes to flow rate but there filtration is outstanding.
@philthyphill8753
5 жыл бұрын
I run two sunsun 304bs and one 404 b bAck up they all run great for me. Never had a problem.
@AnjanMukhopadhyay
5 жыл бұрын
Only problem, I found in SUNSUN is their O rings, rest is value for money. I used both 304B & HW 3000 and for both I had to procure spare O rings! Just for feedback.
@jwkingsr
5 жыл бұрын
Do yo use a lubricant on the seals? In my experience, it makes a world of difference. My 304B has served me flawlessly for over 5 years so far. Each cleaning I remove the O-rings, (main, water in/out, impeller cover) then clean all of the surfaces and the O-rings themselves, then I coat the seals with DANCO Waterproof Silicone Grease (product #88693)[It is aquarium safe], then I reinstall them and reassemble the filter. Don't forget to clean and relube the UV tube.P.S. A thin coat of this stuff is all you need.
@AnjanMukhopadhyay
5 жыл бұрын
John King, Sr , I used petroleum jelly when I used the spare one (previously,the knowledge wasn’t available to me). So far no problem for the last 8 months (touch wood!)
@AndreCosta-pe7vq
3 жыл бұрын
I have run into RECURRENT complaints online about valve failures on the Fluval FX4 and 6. This is the first bottom valve failure I have seen. The top valves are also "available" as a rather pricey replacement.
@mattphillips6714
5 жыл бұрын
Not sure of the direction this video is going... we've already had this discussion of it doesn't matter if you have the space of a multi storey car park or a toilet roll to keep your biological media, your tank or system will only grow the beneficiary bacteria it needs... the FX filters are fully adaptable for your specific needs so anyone who says the FX series is overrated is just playing fanboy to their brand of canister. The fact that the part that leaked can be easily removed and replaced shows the product is reliable, and I'm also willing to bet that FX6 is well past its warranty... Ask any owner of an FX6 or 4/5 if they regretted having it and I'll remark I'd go out and buy another one in a heartbeat. I'd like to end on a better note that as long as your system has regular maintenance and your fish/livestock and plants are well and thriving then happy days we are all doing GREAT, I wish everyone good health and happiness in your tanks... take care
@theone5404
5 жыл бұрын
I'm sorry. They are overrated. I have 2 of them. I actually see that my eheim's are more efficient. I don't like cleaning the fluvals at all. I think the old Rena is as good as any of them. To each is own, as they say.
@mattphillips6714
5 жыл бұрын
@@theone5404 you have an interesting opinion.. 🤔 What way do you find the eheim more efficient is it with performance, cleaning or both..? Thanks for your polite reply.. 😉😉
@theone5404
5 жыл бұрын
@@mattphillips6714 to be honest, both. The the pro3 2180 has a built in heater, a much more simple cleaning process, uses less watts, and hold beneficial bacteria better... Thusly, I use FX6 for water polishing and the Pro 3 2180 for beneficial bacteria. When it comes to holding media and customization; eheim wins hands down. As it pertains to house brand media, better sponge in the fx6, but biological, hands down, eheim excels. When it comes to flow, the fx6 has the edge. When it comes to real life flow as stated by the company, eheim wins with no question about. Personally, I don't care for the bio media in either. It's good in eheim, but if you want the efficiency, you have to get all their media, and one of them, I don't like cleaning. Therefore, I use biohome marine pure and Sera in it. I use there course foam, but pinky filter the rest of the way. I put Sera and pinky filter in the fx6's as well in the middle part. Also, the new queon canisters have great outflow too. Very powerful.
@mattphillips6714
5 жыл бұрын
The One thanks for the in depth review I'll look into the 2180 series if my filter breaks and needs replacing. I was looking at ehiem but was put off by the cost of the filter and the media..
@theone5404
5 жыл бұрын
@@mattphillips6714 My pleasure. But yes, that cost is terrible. I played the waiting game on ebay. I only use their media in a couple of the smaller ones. However, I use what I want in the 2180 filters. The Sera siporex is really good too. Also, the 2080 is just as good as the 2180, minus the built in heater.
@Rowan8888
3 жыл бұрын
I've been running an FX6 for over 5 years now and haven't had to replace anything to date. Very happy with it and it still runs like the day I bought it. The only fault was my own error. When you replace the motor not only should you make sure the screws are tight but also make sure the O ring is in the correct position. If not it will definitely leak. But once you work out the correct position you won't have a problem. Great video Ben!
@BenOchart
3 жыл бұрын
Also, keep an eye on the small square nuts the motor housing screws into. Over time the don’t stay in place or sit at an angle and don’t allow screwing things down with enough pressure to seal the motor. I just went through this. After lubricating the motor o ring and making sure the nuts stayed in the right spot, my small leak stopped and it’s running like new.
@jarpajon8
4 жыл бұрын
I have both and Sun Sun has best value hands down!! Its basically one third price but its truly a workhorse!
@JohnT2088
4 жыл бұрын
I have both brand but fluval fx6 holds more media and pump is a lot stronger. The only reason why people buying sun sun brand cause of the cost and fx6 cost 3x more but if your patient then get the fx6. If your patient every year fx6 is on sale for around $120-180 and its a better quality build then this one. Most people go with sun sun cause its decent and cheaper than eheim / fluval but be patient and get the fx6 when its on sale. I do agree if fx6 never goes on sale then i would buy the sun sun brand but when its on sale why buy the sun sun brand lol
@jarpajon8
4 жыл бұрын
@@JohnT2088 I have both too and you are right if you get that crazy stack deal fx6 is better but fx6 is not worth the msrp fluval charges. The media is more only if you include sponges. In addition the fx6 gph is misleading. Its not 900 its more like 500. The Sun Sun is close to 300 but has uv light thst keeps things crystal clear. Fx6 is "better " but not three times better as price would suggest.
@JohnT2088
4 жыл бұрын
Jose Arpajon dude fx6 is better cause its x2- x3 times the price of sun sun brand 😂. Its better at that category.
@jarpajon8
4 жыл бұрын
@@JohnT2088 What is a better value Honda or Jaguar?
@JohnT2088
4 жыл бұрын
Jose Arpajon jaguar. Cause im rich😂. Joke man. Previous one tii
@junglejim4569
5 жыл бұрын
I've had them both and now use nothing but Eheim. Get a 2260 and you'll never look back.
@fus3669
5 жыл бұрын
I used to only use Fluval pumps/filters and always had issues with the seals after time. I got a Sun Sun due to a quick need and price (thought it would be fine just to cover the need as the Fluval was leaking and I didn't have a replacement seal). That was 3 years ago.
@rickywoods3101
4 жыл бұрын
Both of my sun sun were peices of crap they would randomly loose vacuum or would start cavitations around pumps . No problem at all with my fx6 . Only problem I have had with a fluval was a 6 series and it got a small leak around after 6 years of running
@knrgaquatics8032
5 жыл бұрын
The biggest issues with the fx4 5 and 6 are the impellars on the bottom they are guaranteed to fail in a tank with sand or small gravels in time especially with cichlids digging in it. The impellars are expensive and a pain in the ass to change. Think I have 7 of them in my filter graveyard. Not to mention the sensitivity with the knobs over tighten them and you get micro bubbles clean them too often to keep crap out the impellar seal go bad and they leak. Over all bad design.
@steveday1257
5 жыл бұрын
I have had a very similar problem with my Fluval 206 and 306 filters when the aquastop valves started leaking. Upon investigation it appears the filter has picked up fine grains of sand from the bottom of the tank and these grains of sand get trapped in the rotary aqua stop valve and they grind away at the valves tap and body every time it is operated thus causing the valve to leak. I think its down to poor design and quality control from fluval.
@BenOchart
5 жыл бұрын
I did find some sand in there when I removed it. One fellow said he reached in the can and shoved floss in there to keep sand out.
@TazSJ86
3 жыл бұрын
He reminds me of Alec Baldwin lol
@BenOchart
3 жыл бұрын
🤣🤣🤣
@leosmith6507
Жыл бұрын
as a brit here, you may reach more viewers by tagging it as AllPondSolutions EF(+) it's same filter same specs and such just made for British market,. I have the 2000LPH + 9W UV bulb, on my 240l/55GAL tank, I have a huge community so I went over on cleaning power had for 6 years only needed one new impellar for housing, plus usual sponge and bio parts. does wonderful job
@georgestratikopoulos2089
5 жыл бұрын
For more beneficial bacteria and price value the sunsun leaves the fluval for dead! sunsun power head costs only $15 so you have even more flow than the fx-6
@frankfonfara6878
2 жыл бұрын
Years ago a Fluval failed me due to a safety valve(in fact a small plastic ball, that just closed the filter). Returned after a one-day trip and it stood just still. Took out my four beautiful blue Scalar. Fluval is out of the question. Have a SunSun now, that's running for over 10 years straight without no problem at all. Can only recommend SunSun. They know, what they're doing and they do it right. Visit their website. Helluva company.
@petenewell5377
3 ай бұрын
Ny sunsun 3000 failed in service after 8 months ... ruining the cabinet and ceiling below. I am currently in dispute with amazon for a refund because finest-filters will not refund the purchase price
@WhiteSandsMbuna
8 ай бұрын
My filter strategy is, i run a fx4 and a marineland 360 in my 150 cichlid tank. Good shops sell refurbed filters for around $100. Instead of spending all the money on one excellent filter, get two good ones. Then pick up a couple big used hob filters and keep them in storage as spares.
@chefkda
Жыл бұрын
Need to just hand tighten screws with equal pressure in a Flange Bolt Tightening Sequence. Cranking down on the screws, may break the seal, damage the o-ring, and distort the plastic housing.
@frankiefingerz8047
2 жыл бұрын
I have 2 704b’s on my 90 big diff in flow compared to the eheim pro3&4 which is what i replaced but one of my 704b’s wont stop rattling no matter what i do so amazon is sendin me a replacement & i send the rattlebox back
@JohnT2088
4 жыл бұрын
The only reason why ya buy sun sun brand is because of the damn cost. But fx6 is still a superior filter than the sun sun. If your patient every year fx6 is on sale for around $120-180 and its a better quality build then this one. Most people go with sun sun cause its decent and cheaper than eheim / fluval but be patient and get the fx6 when its on sale. The main point is fx6 pushes more water hence cleaning is much more efficient than sun sun. If fx6 never on sale then the sun sun brand is the better buy but when fx6 goes on sale why buy the sun sun brand....
@90cents49
Жыл бұрын
Fluval in general well built and reliable! So I will always go with it 👍
@josephkool8411
4 жыл бұрын
I can buy 3 sun suns and have money left over for media for the price of the Fluval. It is a better filter though, but the sun sun isn't bad either
@bobsaget9675
4 жыл бұрын
The sun sun 704b is also only rated for 75 gallons over the 400gallons of an fx6...
@JohnSmith-so4tm
3 жыл бұрын
In my country, you can buy 6 units of 704Bs for the price of one FX6. The latter is that expensive here so I just bought a 704B as it's just a backup filter for my cichlid tank (75g).
@mikesmith-wk7vy
2 жыл бұрын
these aren't really comparable the fx6 is just bigger and filters your tank more , sunsun 5000 might be better . but the point is to filter the tank and the fx6 just does it better
@davidvaughan3771
8 ай бұрын
I have 2 sunsuns on my 150 gallon, love having 2 so if I clean to much and kill good bacteria the other saves me, I clean them each every other month, rotating them
@Kevin-mn4hd
Жыл бұрын
Lol. Sun sun has more room for media? Maybe if you take away the 3 huge layers of mechanical sponges from the fluval 🤣😂
@jeffalley4417
3 жыл бұрын
Imma just stick with my 90 dollar cascade 1000
@BenOchart
3 жыл бұрын
If it's working don't mess with it.
@jeffalley4417
3 жыл бұрын
@@BenOchart we can't tell you how much we appreciate everything yall (as a community of fish wizards), do for us. Thank you
@BenOchart
3 жыл бұрын
@@jeffalley4417 Thank you Jeff
@daniel_s
5 жыл бұрын
Yeah if u want to clean the impeller on the fluval you have to unscrew it but if your motor breaks you have no chance at replacing it in the sunsun. And yeah the fluval service valve is soooo flimsyy I hate it. (I have a fx4 ) and those baskets. Yikes
@tmdroopy
5 жыл бұрын
was in the middle of the video. said nah. youre on sunsuns side i can tell. anyways, those sponges from fluval? i consider them medias too. lol. talking about canisters? eheim are still the best, fluvals next. if only aquaclear have cansiter, theyll compete too. but AC HOB are the best ones-
@concernedcitizen5885
4 жыл бұрын
Couldn't agree more on the Eheim. The Germans have some great technology and Eheim is one of them
@catfishcave379
5 жыл бұрын
I prefer my Eheim Classics and Eccos - some have 25 years of continuous use and still going strong!
@wowdad3055
5 жыл бұрын
Those old filter are better made.
@BenOchart
5 жыл бұрын
That's really impressive!
@JohnT2088
5 жыл бұрын
wow dad same as fish tank also. Oceanic older tanks glass are way thicker than the one they have now. Down side is older tank weight so much more 😆
@davidvaughan3771
8 ай бұрын
Fx is 3× the price..you can buy almost 3 sunsuns for your tank for same $$
@jackadair6225
5 жыл бұрын
It really is ultimately about budget with these canisters. I’ve noticed no major differences in performance between sunsun and fluval canisters when I had them, although you are correct about the hose valve on the sunsun being somewhat brittle lol
@wowdad3055
5 жыл бұрын
So you need to be more careful when doing maintenance and take your time.
@Sahadi420
5 жыл бұрын
@@wowdad3055 That's just it!!! Get the FX, and you don't have to "be careful" about such trivial crap!! "Ease of maintenance", just like "quality materials" is worth the extra money.
@thag7749
2 жыл бұрын
I have three sun sun and 2 FX6 on my 10 gallon hermit crab tank💪
@davidvaughan3771
8 ай бұрын
This comparison is like comparing a Mercedes and a Chevy
@royalspin
3 жыл бұрын
Regarding the UV light in the Sun Sun , it's not meant to be run full time .As far as the air getting trapped ,I had the same issue with all my Magnum canister filters .The solution is to burp them by filling it almost up to the top first,put the top on and then priming the pump several times until all the air is released fully and to also check the rubber seal and make sure it's clean , has a tight fit and no cracks. One thing I definitely don't like about the Sun Sun filters are the hose fittings and how fragile they seem to be . What they should have done is made the inlet and outlet straight like the older Magnum 330 and 350 filters without any angles. Also having a shut off valve for the filter inlet and outlet hoses would be helpful for servicing them but that's something that can be retrofitted without too much of a problem .
@Raynewyn
5 жыл бұрын
Confirming what PondGuru said about the FX6. Good filter yes, but way over rated in my opinion.
@BenOchart
5 жыл бұрын
What did Richard say about them?
@Raynewyn
5 жыл бұрын
@@BenOchart kzitem.info/news/bejne/2qiF15qOgGSff2U watch his video and see for yourself. He also did one on a SunSun 304. Can link you that video too if you'd like me to. Basically your 704 is likely to be just as good as your FX6 for a fraction of the price. But if you like bells, whistles and lipstick that's up to you.
@BenOchart
5 жыл бұрын
Xstrada Thanks
@mcflopper
3 жыл бұрын
Sunsun did a wonderful job figuring out how to make their products even cheaper and more flimsy. Just bought a 302 from amazon last week after being back ordered for a while. The screw connectors to the uptake tube and the spray bar have been done away with and now you just shove a very flimsy, cheap plastic tube inside the hose and use a cheap plastic hose clamp. I took out the impeller to check it out and it comes out in pieces. There is a plastic cap which sticks in a hole in the cover. Then a ceramic shaft pulls through the magnet as it comes apart. There is another plastic cap in a hole in the bottom of the access. After trying to get the damn thing out my impeller was in four pieces. Two plastic caps, a magnet, and a shaft. I’ve never seen an impeller just come apart like that. Most of the time the bottom cap stays stuck in the bottom and the shaft pulls through the magnet.
@paddywackyakkaydaddy
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks. My Sunsun will be here in a few days. Watching canister vids, learning more.
@rockerace5879
Жыл бұрын
Got the FX6 and had a leak in the same area.. 1min fix, took out the drain unit, unclipped the red gate valve lever. Cleand it and replace o ring and put it back together. Cost $1. That was 2 years ago and no further leaks👍
@EpicConspiracy
2 жыл бұрын
I think the fluvals come up through the center. My bottom 2 center compartments are always the worst.
@BenOchart
2 жыл бұрын
Water circulates around the outside then down the middle trays to the pump and return pipe. The top middle should be the most dirty. Be sure you sponges go coarse, medium, fine as they descend that middle section and then bio media and finally, at the bottom, activated carbon or some other chemical filtration (if using any)
@28kartavya
Жыл бұрын
Which sunsun model is good for a 5ft large oscars tank (8) ?
@thejuiceisloose3785
3 жыл бұрын
This is not a fair comparison the sunsun hw5000 is a fair comparison
@aussbasstony9763
5 жыл бұрын
I don’t own a Fx6 but why can’t you add Bio media in bags around the outside of top tray and take out the foam from that section. You still have 2 more layers of foam in other trays outer areas
@fhpd350
5 жыл бұрын
You can....
@BenOchart
5 жыл бұрын
Yes. Watch for an upcoming video on Fluval where I trick it out with some things like that and a few other touches.
@NCHornet
5 жыл бұрын
Another good video Ben. I thought of a couple things while watching it. I have an FX4 and an FX6 , 3 of the 304B's and 1 404B . You mentioned that you have had some small leaks around the impeller assembly on the FX6. The large O ring that seals the housing to the FX6 main body may need replacing. O rings can go bad especially when they are being compressed often. If you were in a situation where you needed the filter to be running while waiting for a new O ring to come in the mail try doing this. Remove the O Ring from the housing and then lay something in the groove that it sits in. I have used a couple strands of yarn, then place the O Ring back into the groove and attach it back on the main unit. It doesn't take much to compress the O Ring a little bit more than normal and prevent it from leaking. Of course in a perfect world we all would have replacements of replacements on hand, lol!!! Next is about the amount of media in the FX6. The newer models come with a red tray that sits in the center of each of the larger white media trays. Never really understood the reasoning in this and I have always left them out and placed the media into main trays. This provides quite a bit of room and I recall that Pond Guru even mentioned this in one of his Pimp My Filter videos. One of the issues that I have had with the SunSun filters is the noise. I have one tank in particular that sits on an open stand and the noise is enough to keep me awake at night. It's not the impeller as I have cleaned this multiple times, applied the lubricant, even tore the lid down and removed the large blue section that you mash down on to purge the air out. The noise sounds like a vibrating noise and I thought this might be the source of it. No Dice, I am very mechanically minded and after all my troubleshooting it is clear that the noise is coming from the motor itself in the lid. Unlike the Fluval the SunSun motors are sealed in the lid and cannot be replaced, instead you must purchase the entire lid. This is a negative for folks like us that like to fix things ourselves. I will say this that SunSun has been outstanding to deal with over this noise issue. They even sent me and replacement filter complete with media at no charge, not even for shipping. Another negative for me is that UV Light. I have heard the arguments, as you have, about the flow being to fast and the light not being a high enough wattage to do much good. My issue is having the water surrounding flowing all around that glass housing under the lid. Electricity and water don't go together to well in my book, lol!!! If one of those O rings went bad on the glass housing it could be responsible for a very expensive fish fry, lol!!!! Plus that glass housing can be broken so easily when removing and replacing the lid from the filter. You need to be very careful not to damage it. Last but certainly not the least is the pre-filter that I have plumbed into the intake line. Because of the risk of damaging that glass tube on the bottom of the lid the less I have to remove it the better. SunSun makes a non powered filter canister that works excellent as a pre-filter. The housing is clear so it's very easy to see how dirty the sponges are. The water enters at the bottom of the housing and flows upward. I have this housing filled with sponges from coarse to fine in this housing. The water flows through all these sponges before it ever enters the main canister filter. This allowed me to replace all the sponges and pads in the main unit and fill this space with more Bio Home Ultimate, which is the media I prefer for biological filtration. The additional amount that this provides was even larger than I had thought it would be. By using this pre filter it means I can go much longer before I need to open the main filter housing. The pre-filter comes with shut off valves on the intake and output lines. Turn them off and the entire unit can be taken to the sink to be cleaned out. I purchased several sets of these sponges so when they eventually need replacing I will have them. I haven't noticed any negatives by using this pre-filter . I am going to order a couple more of these and I want to try them out on the FX filters as well. They are less than $25 and to me they are worth every penny. Below is a link to this pre-filter if anyone is interested. I didn't mean to write a darn novel, lol!!!! Take care my friend and keep up the great job. www.amazon.com/Sunsun-Transparent-Aquarium-Pre-Filter-Without/dp/B07K7B2G6S
@BenOchart
5 жыл бұрын
Hello Kevin, Good points. Did you find that the hose diameter was exactly the same between the pre-filter and the bigger unit? Someone once commented that the sizes were different and required some adapter??? I did a video on this subject a while back. That pre-filter can extend cleaning out to six months or longer for the main unit and nearly doubles bio media. A game changer. My next Fluval video will be on adding a pre-filter. I suspect this will extend my time between needing to clean the FX-6 by several months. Sorry to hear that the sunsun made so much noise. The only things I can think of are: 1) the impellor cap wasn't screwed down entirely (it was making one of my units rattle once) and 3) baskets had too much media and couldn't sit properly and fully in place because the basket underneath was too high with media.
@NCHornet
5 жыл бұрын
@@BenOchart The hose that came with the Sunsun canister filter fit the pre filters inputs and outputs perfectly, no adapter was needed. I agree that it's a game changer for sure. I will just come out and say it, I'M A FLUVAL FAN, AND I HAVE BEEN FOR MORE THAN 25 YEARS. But the Sunsun line of filters just can't be beat. If I were a wealthy man I would put FX6 filters on my gold fish bowl, but I'm not and I don't have any gold fish either, lol!!!! The noise on my filters isn't impeller noise, it isn't media related either. I have removed all media and the noise never changed. Been in this game a long time, it's something inside the motor assembly itself and it is caused by the vibration of the motor itself. I spent hours troubleshooting and sending emails back and forth to personnel in their design department. Their customer service is outstanding. They ended up sending me a complete 404B with media and the noise is much lower. It was something in the motors used in the 303B. If I had it in a closed stand in probably would have been acceptable. If it wasn't some of the egg crate foam on the interior absorbs noise like crazy. They use it in recording studios because of this. I am thinking of adding another pre filter to my FX4 and FX6. But first I need to buy an accurate flow meter to be sure the flow is sufficient for the larger Fluval pumps. I have read of people making their own pre filters and ended up burning the pumps up on the FX filters because the flow wasn't enough. The Fluval pumps cost more than an entire Sunsun filter, actually over double. When I get some flow numbers I can pass onto you if you want. Feel free to contact me at walknmiracle@triad.rr.com. Take care my friend. Later
@fionabailer5213
5 жыл бұрын
I recently just got back into the hobby and bought a smaller sunsun canister for a 45 gallon tank based on Bens comments and will be sending it back. It's the noise issue. I also checked everything as you did and agree, it is the motor. It drives me crazy. I've had Eheim and Fluval in the past and they both worked well (quiet). I would go back to Eiheim but I don't like the green inside tank unless that has changed . It will probably be the new Fluval 7 series.
@fhpd350
5 жыл бұрын
The SunSun filters just feel and look cheap and flimsy. You have to rock it to get air bubbles out of it? Lol. I love how sturdy and quiet the Fluval FX6 filters are. More customizable media trays, quiet, sturdy, proven. To each his own though!
@wowdad3055
5 жыл бұрын
next time you clean your filter once you are ready to start filter keep intake in the water, with a empty filter suck on output when you hear the filter filling up when is stops water sound turn on your filter you should get less bubbles.
@BenOchart
5 жыл бұрын
Overall I give them (the SunSun) a 7 out of ten. Once the air is out (and it take around a minute) you're done. I give Fluval 8.5. The question is do you think there's a $150 difference between them in performance?
@Sahadi420
5 жыл бұрын
@@BenOchart you can get the FX6 at petsmart for $260 right now......and to further answer your question, YES $150 is TOTALLY worth the "ease of maintenance" the FX series will provide you when you go to service your filter. Just like anything, the easier it is, the more you'll do it.
@boebender
Жыл бұрын
I’ve always been a Eheim and Fluval guy. Sun Sun has my attention. Thanks
@jereknowles3061
4 жыл бұрын
It’s like Rolex or timex tells the Same time. There’s always gonna be the ones that think the Rolex tells better time go figure. Same with these filters. It’s a name someone said it’s the best. So some people have to have the name to say it’s the best. The same people will most likely say a sponge filter is no good because it’s cheaper. But say the fx6 hold more sponges for better filtration because it’s more money so it has to be better. Filtration its better with a lower water flow through what ever the media is sponges Floss or type of bio media. it’s just bacteria it don’t care what is is Just because it’s the same process. No matter the cost. Ben you are correct. You have helped people understand that this hobby is not about the best of the best. But how you care for what you have.
@lolsurprise7185
4 жыл бұрын
A filter basically boils down to water flow over surface area, it's that simple.
@sallyschuck8728
8 ай бұрын
Thank you the excellent explanations between the 2 filters. I’ve had fx6 for many years. Now that I have developed hand arthritis I can’t get the intake and output connectors to release! Hopefully the sun sun which comes in 2 days will work with arthritis hands. I’ve had tanks for 50+ years!
@BenOchart
8 ай бұрын
Oase canisters are also very hand friendly (but a bit pricy compared to SunSun)
@luisvazquez7397
4 жыл бұрын
Greetings friend I have a 125gl aquarium with Africans and I see that my filtration is insufficient for the tank and the image I want to get is not the best so I want your opine, my aquarium consists of the following filtration but I am sure that the canister I have is not doing good work.. The filtration consists of the next I have two filters waterfall one is aqueon 75 the other is tidal 75 and I have a sunsun 30b all that suggests me to put another sunsun or change canister
@bobbyruiz7124
5 жыл бұрын
I have a fx4 on my 75 and it's been great
@soulveiw
5 жыл бұрын
I have no idea why they chose to name and label sunsun products differently for the UK. It's not like we aren't already familiar with the sunsun brand and most people including myself call them sunsun anyway lol
@delonjohnson5907
3 ай бұрын
spending 300 for a canister when you can build a conservative sump for the same price is like paying 80k for a 96 jeep
@BenOchart
3 ай бұрын
I think some people don't want to drill their tank and/or don't know about overflow boxes for sumps and are just plain afraid of sumps (the unknown) and fear flooding. Once familiar with how sumps work it does seem like an obvious choice.
@somethingfishy4214
5 жыл бұрын
Are sun sun filters now UL Rated? If not, that would be a good piece of info to include. Insurance not covering a "disaster" might help people make a better decision for them.
@myrainbow2u
Жыл бұрын
What does this mean?
@StanTheObserver-lo8rx
5 жыл бұрын
I bought Fluval 10 years ago..junk. Wouldn't prime right. Leaked,couldn't lock right. Gasket wore fast. Most canisters are junk..go sump if possible or make your own canister and hook up a REAL pump.
@BenOchart
5 жыл бұрын
Hey Stan, I got into sumps around six or so months ago ... love it! So flexible and easy to maintain. People (like I used to be) are afraid of them. Afraid of what they don't understand. Thanks for stopping by.
@chingo3625
2 жыл бұрын
Fluvial is a piece of junk because its edge of the bucket is too soft to keep water leaking from the edge. I had one with problem of the edge after one year use while the Eiheim Classic 250 had been used for 20 years without experiencing this leakage issue, except the motor making noise.
@BenOchart
2 жыл бұрын
I haven't had leaks anywhere except with the purge valve at the bottom and one of the on/off valves. I've never owned an Eheim but I hear they were indestructible. There must be a reason for that eheim is making noise. This might help: kzitem.info/news/bejne/zHiKuGypcZ9pen4
@robmagz
4 жыл бұрын
Greatt review!. Purchase 350gallon (8ftx3ftx2ft ) well stock tank.. Was wondering how many canisters would I need for that size tank?
@BenOchart
4 жыл бұрын
2 + a hang on back would be my choice. That a lot of water to keep clean.
@shaun9107
5 жыл бұрын
Flauval 406 . The last thing we need is inpellor failure , all set up after a clean and turn it on & nothing . Strip it , turn the impeller & start again . The plastic is made out of is like a Mcdonalds KIDS toy !
@DavidDavis311
4 жыл бұрын
Just a heads up for anyone thinking of buying an fx4 or fx6. They have them on sale at Petsmart (at least in so cal) for 200 and 239 respectively. This deal isn’t listed on their website or advertised. That’s an absolute steal for these filters.
@BenOchart
4 жыл бұрын
Good tip!
@turtleplates
5 жыл бұрын
i have the sun sun 3000 and love it !!!! i have not even looked at the fluval
@BenOchart
5 жыл бұрын
How does the adjustable flow control work? No issues and strong output?
@turtleplates
5 жыл бұрын
@@BenOchart i bought it back in july of last year 2018 almost a year now and so far been great .. the flow is wonderful . i love that it adjust and by a lot . it really gets the water moving . the only complaint i have is the "self priming " yea its easy but idk if its easier .. 1-6 speeds and 2 hour increments for the uv light . 1) speed says 1200L/H... 2)1600L/H 3) 2000L/H 4)2400L/H 5)2700L/H 6) 3000 L/H ive used it alone on a 29 gallon then a 30 gallon and now on a 50 that i havent showed on my channel yet i would say easy it could do a 125 no problem .. its a beast of a filter . i bought it for 135$ at that time .. ive yet to see it that low again .. best believe i would buy another !!!
@markdavidcsoma6463
4 жыл бұрын
Lubricate all the O rings with cooking oil that will stop all leaks
@BenOchart
4 жыл бұрын
Didn’t think of cooking oil. I’m currently using “food grade” silicone
@lakemalawifishkeeping2599
2 жыл бұрын
Which 1 do u recommend based on bang 4 your buck
@gregory7414
4 ай бұрын
You said the red button on top of the 704B is to remove air? No. It turns on the UV. Right?
@BenOchart
4 ай бұрын
The blue one pushes air out for priming and the red one turns on tne UV.
@timsgarage1861
4 жыл бұрын
The UV light on 2 of my sunsun 304b's melted the trays. Had to get replacements. They aren't meant to be on all the time i guess.
@BenOchart
4 жыл бұрын
I run mine on weekends and have not noticed any damage, but I have heard several reports like yours.
@GalaxyFA5
4 жыл бұрын
mine melted too. I just replaced the whole unit with a fluval
@misterbgs1
5 жыл бұрын
Interesting review and comparison. I personally would not choose either. Eheim classics are my choice.
@BenOchart
5 жыл бұрын
You're not alone in this comment thread. Thanks for watching Mister B!
@danielbrewer6469
3 жыл бұрын
I had a 704B before purchasing the FX6. The 704B was amazing and lasted more than 5 years. A power surge hit my house killing over 1/2 of my appliances to include the 704B. I would expect it to have killed any brand on that specific circuit. I needed to replace it so I bought the FX6. Now that I have used both for some time, I would say that you CAN NOT go wrong with either. I would give a slight performance edge to the FX6. (Maybe because the fx6 is new compared to a 704B with 5+years of use?) Combine that with all you can do with the utility valve at the bottom and the fx6 is the clear winner to me. If you factor in price/budget...... 704B for larger tanks is unbeatable. Secondary note, 704B has more space for bio media. In the real world, the fx6 has more than enough bio media space to sustain more than sufficient BB.
@BenOchart
3 жыл бұрын
I agree. The 704-B will get the job done (on a budget) but if one wants a battleship, and has the budget, then the FX-6 is the way to go.
@hotelaccounting4217
4 жыл бұрын
compare it to the HW-5000 and see who wins, no more apples to oranges comparisons, price level fairness!
@BenOchart
4 жыл бұрын
The point is that you can get something comparable for a lot less $. When my FX-6 purge valve failed a SunSun 704-B kept the 100 looking good until the replacement part arrived.
@Chris29909
5 жыл бұрын
Bigals.com for fluval parts
@dailodai9586
Жыл бұрын
my model is " BUY ONCE CRY ONCE"
@scottscheibe5517
4 жыл бұрын
Thinking of getting a Sunsun canister to replace a a leaking Fluval 207, every fluval I've had including several in the tank have failed in some manner. I will never buy another fluval. Have been a marineland fan but they are a bit more expenisive than the sunsun.
@BenOchart
4 жыл бұрын
I too have had some issues with Fluval and had to replace expensive valves. This SunSun is a proven workhorse and a good bargain: amzn.to/2D0UDxG
@TRG528
5 жыл бұрын
Fx6 should be compared to the new hw5000
@BenOchart
5 жыл бұрын
I agree. I'm gonna get my hands on one.
@lakemalawifishkeeping2599
2 жыл бұрын
Just ordered my sunsun 3000 love me some sunsun lol...thanks for your responses to my questions really helped me out thanks
@BenOchart
2 жыл бұрын
Glad I could help! Let me know what you think about that SunSun 3000.
@scottmellard3298
5 жыл бұрын
find. Good video. I have been wondering about the fx6. Can it be worth the money? Finally I know the answer....MAYBE...SORT OF😁
@benmillns6209
5 жыл бұрын
I do like my 704b's, had them since June last year and they've performed flawlessly. I also got a great deal on a Resun 2800 recently and posted a couple of pics on the Facebook group last week... It's so big that a 704b fits inside the canister bucket! Flow of 740gph is insane too, it was actually digging up the gravel at the front of my 120.
@BenOchart
5 жыл бұрын
Wow Ben, I never heard of a Resun, is it in the states?
@benmillns8976
5 жыл бұрын
@@BenOchart I think they are available in the states but I'm not sure they're produced anymore so might be getting a bit difficult to source. I got mine for £65 and it was actually delivered from France!
@askvanita
2 жыл бұрын
Ben, i have a question. What do you think off the SUNSUN 5000?
@BenOchart
2 жыл бұрын
I have not had an opportunity to try one out. My biggest SunSun is a 704-B
@fishrrelaxing9361
5 жыл бұрын
You don’t need sponges in the top of the fx6 fine pad sized for then entire tray diameter (basically sits on top of basket not in center exciting.. fill all middles with media.. this makes the capacity difference minimal but even still how much Messi’s do you actually need? Most filters have 1000x more surface area then what is actually needed for the tank it’s on. Most of your bio will actually be done in your substrate if your tank. Biggest drawback of fx6 is one seal that is prone to failure at motor housing where others are self contained with seal plus gasket for unit making a double seal. The biggest benefit to the fx6 is mechanical filtration. All those perimeter sponges really do help reduce maintenance and help keep water clarity up. As for gph this is counter intuitive unless all you are wanting is mechanicals filtration. Bigger slower filter for longer dwell time is really what you want. People too often confuse water turn over with filters.. a faster flowing filter isn’t filtering any better as the water is moving too fast getting less filters per pass needing more passes through the filter.. it’s a wash.. the only gain is by moving water you increase oxygen exchange. You can do this more effectively with a wave maker.. a good example is big salt tanks.. they are turning over the water 10-20x per hour with wavemakers but filtering only 2-3x per hour through their sump. Too much is overhyped and marketing in the fish hobby. 90% of tanks don’t need anything more then moving water and substrate. Want showroom quality water then add a filter with mech.. outside that it’s just how much you want to spend and what makes you feel good. I run large canisters in many tanks don’t get me wrong and they are loaded with as much media as I can get in there and still close the lid. I also clean them about once a year and that’s mostly just changing the fine pad. End result is they are grimy dirty and flow 30-40% of what they should. What this gets me is a full cycle. All that hunk clogging the sponges and media slowing down the water and creating pockets so gunned that water barely trickles through creating anoxic zones within. Bigger isn’t better.. capacity isn’t better.. gph isn’t better. I’ve been beating in this concept for years now in people comment sections. I do water changes when I replace my fine pads.. that’s it.. other then that I simply top off my tanks which need 5-10g a week on larger open top tanks cause I’m turning over so much water making evaporation greater. And my tanks are still crystal clear and I’ve not vacuumed or disturbed my 2” sand bottom in over a year now and still as clean as the day I set up the tanks.. I move a lot of water fast in the tank and the rest takes care of itself..
@richardburnssmith1884
8 ай бұрын
In a short " fluval is king "
@liamwalters5029
5 жыл бұрын
Eheiem thanks
@luigigreen9823
5 жыл бұрын
The only canister that rivals the 704b is my Penn Plax Cascade 1500 I run both on my 125 cichlid tank with 3 Oscar's and a huge pleco. Water is pristine. Only requires 1 50 percent water change a week.
@Sahadi420
5 жыл бұрын
I have an FX 4, and 6 on my 125, with a 14" long Pleco. I don't even run "fine" or "medium" pads in it....just those supplied, with biohome ultimate in the bottom tray(s). I couldn't ask for clearer water.
@luigigreen9823
5 жыл бұрын
@@Sahadi420 I could literally buy 2 704bs and fill them with biohome ultimate for cheaper than buying one fx6...
@Sahadi420
5 жыл бұрын
@@luigigreen9823 I paid (brand new at petsmart) $260 for the FX6. What I really love about the FX series is it's a JOY to service!!! Closing the valves is easy, way better then the stupid connector the 704 uses 3:44......THAT THING SUCKS!!! (and the one on my marineland 360 leaked when disconnected) The FX connectors are very high quality valves......connected to hoses that are far more flexible. And before you pry the hoses off?? Let out some water out of the bottom valve, and the canister won't "squirt" on you. Then you go to "pry" the top off.....and instead it lifts EFFORTLESSLY right off after you unscrew the tabs. I've said more then my fair share of cuss words trying to pry off those canister filters. (Yes screw you too my 406 filters.) Then lifting the trays is even simplified....just grab the bright red handles, and pull the whole lot out at once. Priming the FX filter?? You can keep that stupid blue button, my FX does it for me.
@luigigreen9823
5 жыл бұрын
@@Sahadi420 I'll take the sunsun and penn plax cascade all day.
@Sahadi420
5 жыл бұрын
@@luigigreen9823 It's your money buddy.....you get what you pay for. I would rather pay the extra hundred for the FX over your cascade, one time....and enjoy the hassle free maintenance every time I service the filter. :)
@eyadjamus7126
4 жыл бұрын
Thank you for your honesty. I was going to purchase an FX 6 as a spare filter just in case something ever went wrong. But now I'll just buy a Sunsun instead. BTW- at the moment I'm running 2 canisters on this particular tank (high bio-load, heavily stocked Cichlid tank). I love your videos, very informative and helpful.
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