These QuietFlow filters have attachments for a 1) Bio-Holster, 2) diffuser grid, and 3) specialty filter pad option. The truth in our opinion is that these three attachments are gimmicks that you do not need. The so-called Bio-Holster is said to remove ammonia & nitrites, yet the surface area is so small, don't count on it doing much. Even just several cups of sand or gravel in your aquarium with a reasonable flow of water across the surface, and through a clean sand bed, will do much more than this goofy Bio-Holster. The diffuser grid is said to add oxygen, yet just the movement of water across the filter plate, and as it waterfalls and splashes into the tank will add plenty of oxygen compared to a much smaller amount by this unnecessary and goofy diffuser grid. The specialty filter pad options are the goofiest things of all. They are so small in size; they cannot remove but insignificant quantities of anything. The same can be said for the carbon that comes pre-installed in the filter pads. There is not enough carbon. Yet, Aqueon with this filter gives you more carbon than any of the competing brands. This is a standard problem in the industry to not use enough carbon in the external hang-on filters. The filter pad is also not ideal, but still much better than any of the competitors. This is the best external hang-on filter for the aquarium, despite some unnecessary features.

We are finding the water pumps for this filter to be long lasting and durable. Probably the best in the industry for these types of filters. That is a big deal because most or all competitors of external hang on filters have water pumps much less durable and often noisy enough to drive both you and the fish crazy! Therefore, we strongly recommend this filter. 

 

If you cut open the floss filter with a scissors, you can add more carbon with a spoon.

The Bio-Holster is useful as a structure to hold the floss filter cartridge. The diffuser grid and specialty filter pad options are options you don't need to waste your money replacing. When you get rid of all the goofy accessories, this is really a very simple and easy to use filter for removing organic solids and dissolved solids from the water.
 

 

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There is also a red light indicator that runs on two small batteries. It is supposed to tell you when the filter is dirty and needs to be cleaned. It malfunctions easily and does not work very well. You don't need it because it is easy to pick up the filter top and lift the filters to see if they are dirty. Also, if they are becoming clogged you will see excess water going over the edge of the inside of the filter, above the water pump, where there is a designed water overflow for that purpose. Unfortunately, the aquarium industry is filled with all sorts of "looks good" or "feels good" gimmicks. We will help you differentiate between the realities and the hype.

The purpose of this filter is to 1) remove medium to large size solids with the floss filter cartridge (best in the industry for an external hang-on filter), 2) remove dissolved organic toxins with carbon (that we recommend you add more to the filter floss cartridge by cutting it open with scissors and adding carbon with a spoon, 3) it adds significant amounts of oxygen as a result of water flow, eliminating the need for aeration for small to medium fish densities. However, with medium to large fish densities adding an aerator with air stone is strongly recommended.

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To save you money and keep healthier fish.