Read this article with step-by-step instructions or watch our detailed setup video.
Adjust the height of the Easy Flow curved tube so that the opening is 1/3 out of the water and 2/3 in the water.
Additional Supplies Needed
The sponge filter does not produce air on its own, so you also need to buy the following components to run the sponge filter:
— Air pump
— Airline tubing
— Check valve (to prevent water from pouring out of the tank when the power is off)
Pore Size: 25ppi (different manufacturers rate porosity slightly different as it's an approximation)
Increase Circulation in Your Aquarium
The Easy Flow Sponge Filter creates a directional current in your aquarium. This is good for delivering nutrients to plants and sweeping debris back to the filter. It also benefits fish by giving them something to swim against.
Adjustable Height for Different Tank Sizes
The Easy Flow curved uplift tube has an adjustable height, allowing you to use it for both small and big tanks. Use our sizing chart to find the perfect sponge filter for your aquarium. Ideally, the tube opening should sit 1/3 out of the water and 2/3 in the water.
No Air Stone Needed
Our air collar replaces the need for an air stone. Uniform bubbles with the airline on the outside delivers better even flow, which increases the flow rate and reduces noise. No more glug, glug, glug sound. Use a small pipe brush to clean the collar during monthly maintenance.
Blends in With Plants
The green color blends in with plants and helps hide any green algae on the tubing. But it's still transparent enough to see the uniform flow and ensure your filter is working properly at a glance.
Extra Heavy Base
Our extra heavy weighted base helps the sponge filter sinks right away. Give it a squeeze when you put it in to remove extra air. It also helps it stay in place when a fish might try and move it.
Coarse Sponge
Our coarse sponge allows for extra time between cleaning. It's also able to hold more debris. This is a great place for baby shrimp and fry to forage for food. Baby shrimp even use the sponge as a cave system to hide from fish that may try to eat them while growing. We recommend servicing sponge filters once a month.
Cleaning Is Easy
We recommend cleaning your sponge filter once a month. Removing the debris from the sponge ensures it won't clog up unexpectedly. While our sponge filters can often go many months between service, it's a best practice to service monthly. Also, clean the air collar with a small pipe brush to remove any debris buildup.
Bonus Tip: Pour the brown water on your houseplants to make them very happy.
Cleaning Instructions:
1. Use a fish bag, ziplock bag, or pitcher to put around the sponge while inside of the aquarium.
2. Lift the water and sponge out to catch the majority of debris that will come off while removing.
3. Remove the foam from the plastic basket. Use the aquarium water and squeeze out the debris from the sponge.
4. Discard the water and get more water from the aquarium.
5. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 until sponge filter is mostly free of debris.
6. Scrub the air collar as well to clear out any debris or algae that has covered the holes.
7. Reassemble the sponge filter, and install it back in the aquarium