1. For those who use AquaClear BioMax filter, I myself use AquaClear 50 for example, it would cost me about $3.29 for one pack of BioMax for AquaClear 50 size, I think it's better just to get AquaClear 110 size for $8.49, take it home, open the package and the content enable you to divided out to at least 4 of those AquaClear 50 size package. 4x$3.29=13.16, you could save $4 right there. (I rinse/reuse the bag by the way)
http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.j ... 0&keepsr=0
2. For those who uses Fluval 1 plus foam filter, I'm sure you know how expensive it cost for one little foam they charge you at the store(maybe about $4? I couldn't remember since I haven't buy it for so long), and here's what I did, I purchased AquaClear 70 Foam insert 3pk from PetsMart for $5.49(online price match), take it home and use scissor and divide 3 big foam into 9 small foam, they will fit in Fluval 1plus filter perfectly. 9x$4=$36, you could save about $30 right there
all that cutting doesn't take me more than 1 minute
http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.j ... 4&keepsr=0
http://www.fx.clemson.edu/~ychiu/turtle/IMG_2705.JPG
http://www.fx.clemson.edu/~ychiu/turtle/IMG_2706.JPG
3. This might take a bit work but it's worth it, rather than buying one 3pk AquaClear 50 carbon insert, I buy Diamond Blend carbon myself http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.j ... 4&keepsr=0
for about $12, when you are ready to change the carbon, cut the old carbon bag open just on the very top, and refill it with Diamond Blend carbon, I change my carbon every month for nearly one year and I'm still using it.
Hope these are useful tip for you, they might seems like a hassle to do, but if you think in terms of money, it's really worth it.
