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I'm working on getting a larger tank, but came accross someone selling a used Eheim 2217 for $100. (Super deal here in Canada) I've been researching this filter and it's aparently really good, but I have some confusion about the filter media. I noticed it has 2 baskets inside. It uses those ammonia tube things (I'm very technical can't you tell?) and the person said something about a foam peice and cotton peice. I'm assuming the cotton is the loose stuff you buy in bulk, but what about this foam peice? First of all is it really necessary with the cotton? Also what about charcoal? Can it be used in this filter? I've got a bunch of different info from sites on this filter, so I was wondering if someone had one and if they could clear up some confusion...

Thanks!

Is this the filter you are talking about?
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/P ... 2004&Nty=1

And if so does this help?

Ok, yah that's it... makes more sense... So I have to buy specifically designed pads.... also, does all that media have to be replaced regularly, or can some of it just be rinsed? How long does the stuff usually last? The guy is giving me the fine cotton pad, and the tube things.... I've gotta go to my petsmart and see if they carry the media...

Also, is this a good filter? I've read a lot of good things about these on the forum and elsewhere.... It will be in a 90 gallon, but not filled to capacity until I can get a lid... my turtle is an escape artist!

Yes, you have to buy specifically designed pads, but these can be rinsed out until they start to show ware, or the stop rinsing clean. The carbon needs to be replaced every time you clean the filter. The bio media CAN'T be rinsed in tap water, it will kill all the good bio, instead just GENTLY rinse it out in your tank's water. You can keep the bio media for a LONG time. The filter should be cleaned (this means everything I just said above) about once a mouth, give or take a little depending on how big your turtle, and tank are. Eheim is a very well know brand, and comes highly recommended by many. Is it used, or is he selling it new? If it is used, don't be upset if something bad happens to it in the near future. And it will do fine in a 90 gallon tank.

It's used, but it's looks to be in perfect condition. I want to go take a look at it first, and run some water through it to make sure it's working. It's off Kijiji, and around here, I haven't had any issues with used products from there. Maybe because it's all local, so you know where they live! Lol....My friends haven't had any issues either. Although I noticed that they're a good price in the states, and my parents live in Utah, so I could just wait and buy one there for about $20 more... plus our dollar is worth more now, so I might just do that. I saw one for like $120 new with 2 year warranty. We'll see. I think it depends on the condition of this used one.....

Thanks for the help, I think I have a better understanding of this filter now. And it's much cheaper then the XP's... They run about $350 here.... too rich for my blood.

Ok I just found one near my parents that will only cost me $30 but no shipping... guess I'll be going new! I'm going to be there in 2 months, and that's about the time I'm getting a tank!

Once again, thanks for answering all my questions about this filter. Looks like it's going to work perfectly for my needs, and a great price!

NP, good luck with the upgrade!!!