Canister filter hose length for intake and return

[caninebard]

Setting up a new 75 gallon planted tank and got a Fluval 407 canister filter. The manual says to keep hoses short, but I've got the tank on a stand with the filter below. How much does hose length actually affect performance? Wondering if I can extend the intake and return hoses by a foot or two without issues.

[fattiger]

Yo, dawg, hose length totally messes with flow rate. The longer the hose, the harder your filter's gotta work to push water. My Fluval 307 lost like 20% flow when I added an extra foot. If you're gonna extend, maybe bump up the filter size or chill with the extra length.

[fluteca]

Hose length impacts both flow and maintenance. Longer hoses accumulate more debris, requiring frequent cleaning. For a 75 gallon, I'd keep extensions under 12 inches. Also, ensure the hoses aren't kinked, as that'll further reduce efficiency.

[jazzora]

Yo, dawg, hose length totally messes with flow rate. The longer the hose, the harder your filter's gotta work to push water. My Fluval 307 lost like 20% flow when I added an extra foot. If you're gonna extend, maybe bump up the filter size or chill with the extra length.

I agree with fattiger. Even a small extension can significantly reduce flow. Have you considered relocating the filter to minimize hose length?

[almond]

I've run my 407 with an extra 18 inches of hose for years. Flow's a bit slower, but it's still plenty for my discus tank. Just gotta clean the hoses every other month. If you're cool with a slight drop in flow, go for it.

[caninebard]

Thanks for the input, everyone. Sounds like I'll keep the extensions under a foot and monitor the flow. Appreciate the advice!

[farmhand]

Another thing to consider is the hose diameter. Thicker hoses reduce resistance, so if you're extending, maybe upgrade to a wider diameter. My setup uses 5/8 inch hoses instead of the standard 1/2 inch, and it helps maintain flow.

[easton]

I've never noticed a huge difference with hose length, but I'm running a sump, so maybe that's why. For canisters, though, I'd stick to the manual's recommendations. Better safe than sorry.

[flumex]

If you're extending the hoses, make sure they're properly secured. Loose hoses can vibrate and create noise. Also, check for leaks regularly, especially at the connections.

[pipedreamer]

I don't know much about filters, but my friend had issues with longer hoses. His tank got cloudy, and he had to cut them back. Maybe start small and see how it goes.