Diatom filter

[david meyers]

Anyone still use the diatom filter made by Vortex? Don't hear or see them much anymore. I always used one but it recently burned up so was wondering if there was something better to use as an auxillary filter.

[Bushkill]

I don't believe they're manufactured any longer. There's tons of spare parts out there on the market though. Possibly a new motor too. I bought the smaller one about a year and half ago, and I have to say it was a bit of a "hunt". Just google it. I'd bet there's still a handful out there in inventory.

[TerriM]

Yes, those are great filters. And yes they are still being manufactured, they currently have seven different models. You can buy directly from their website. Will I get in trouble for posting a link? (diatomfilter and add the usual before and after).

[acitydweller]

i had one and never had crystal clear water like i did running one of those.

truly a great product for polishing your tank. i gave mine away when i gave up the hobby. sort of wish i kept it.

[Seattle_Aquarist]

Hi david meyers,

An alternative to consider would be the Marineland H.O.T. filter. With the micron filter cartridge in place it can be charged with diatom powder.

[Bushkill]

Originally Posted by TerriM

Yes, those are great filters. And yes they are still being manufactured, they currently have seven different models. You can buy directly from their website. Will I get in trouble for posting a link? (diatomfilter and add the usual before and after).

Hmmm. It looks like the last update to that website is late in 2010 and said something about a warehouse fire and asks for patience with orders. Don't wanna get in trouble either, lol! No matter. I think there's still a bunch of them in re-seller inventories.

It's an incredible filter once you get the hang of getting it going.

[TerriM]

I hadn't looked at their homepage. I sent an email and asked. We'll see if I get an answer.

[GraphicGr8s]

I still have mine 32 years later. Wouldn't be without it.

[Bushkill]

Originally Posted by TerriM

I hadn't looked at their homepage. I sent an email and asked. We'll see if I get an answer.

I hadn't either until you posted it. I just know when I went looking for one about a year and a half ago, it was out of stock in a bunch of places. So the timing would seem right based on what the website reads now. Got me curious now.

[Aben314]

I have one if you're looking for one.
It's pretty old and I'd have to test if it still works but I'd be willing to sell it.
It might need new diatom powder and a cleaning but it looks to be in pretty good condition. I was going to post it for sale on the S&S once I got out of school for the summer.

[150EH]

I have an old Vortex in my Garage that I used to use, but I think there are better way to have clean water, Purigen, RO/DI, etc. the set up and clean up on a Vortex is a bit of work.

[david meyers]

I went ahead and bought the regular size D1 Diatom Filter to replace the XL model which burned up. Had to send to Texas for it. Found a replacement motor online but it was almost as much as a new one. Anyway; it's always amazing to me how these companies manage to find a way to CHEAPEN their products. I opened the box and was shocked to find that the nice large GLASS JAR has been replaced smaller plastic jar. At least the whole thing is made in USA; I think. It's time for American GREED to stand aside so we can start making our own GOOD products again! Screw China, Japan, etc. Thanks for your input.