When to clean Eheim 2217?

[ksskumar]

I have had my 72G started and running for about 2 months and had been adding fishes regularly. Mostly Cichlids.

How do I know if I need to clean the 2217? I am a newbie for Eheim.

How difficult is it? Any DIY links.

I appreciate any tips from the experts.

[algarciajr]

I clean mine every two months, and it is not that difficult if you have the quick disconnect valves. I use 2 five gallon buckets to separate my media when cleaning it. I dont know of any links.

[jarrodaden]

I watch for a reduction in flow at the outlet as a gauge of when to do it. The frequency could vary greatly from one tank to the next depending on the type and number of fish.

+1 on quick connects. Definitely add these if you don't have them.

I also recommend media socks or pantyhose. You can quickly lift the media out, rinse it, and put it back in. You can buy the pre-cut filter pads, but I just use filter floss from the fabric store. Cleaning this filter is very simple. Don't forget to rinse with conditioned water only (you probably knew that).

Put everything back together, top off with conditioned water and put the lid on. You may have to open one valve to get the filter top back on.

[5thwardboy]

I use flash light to check the gunt inside the canister. If the canister is half dirty, it is time to clean.

[ksskumar]

Thanks guys! appreciate all your help..

[myjohnson]

Clean it once a month in tank water.

QD is a must.

[supadave]

Once a month .

[TonyO]

Can you purchase quick connects, or is it a DIY situation (if so, how?)?

[ssrprelude]

For a 2217 buying QD's is you best bet, you need two sets. If you're talking 2260 QD which run $150, making them would be cheaper.

[TonyO]

Excellent! Thanks!