Choosing the Right Filter Media for SunSun HW-302 Canister Filter

When setting up your SunSun HW-302 Canister Filter, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting the right filter media. Since the HW-302 does not come with media included, you have the flexibility to customize the setup to best suit your aquarium’s needs. The right combination of mechanical, biological, and chemical media ensures clear, healthy water for your fish and plants.

1. Mechanical Filter Media (First Stage)

Mechanical media removes visible dirt, uneaten food, and fish waste. For the SunSun HW-302, the bottom tray should always be filled with mechanical media to catch large particles before water reaches the biological stage.

Best Options:

• Coarse Sponge Pads

• Fine Filter Pads

• Filter Wool (Polyfill)

👉 Buy SunSun HW-302 Canister Filter

2. Biological Filter Media (Second Stage)

Biological media provides a large surface area for beneficial bacteria to grow. These bacteria convert harmful ammonia and nitrite into less toxic nitrate, creating a stable nitrogen cycle.

Best Options:

• Ceramic Rings

• Bio Balls

• Sintered Glass Media

👉 Recommended Upgrade: SunSun XWA 600U Canister Filter (also supports biological media).

3. Chemical Filter Media (Third Stage)

Chemical media is used to remove impurities, odors, and discoloration from the water. It should be placed in the top tray so water passes through it last.

Best Options:

• Activated Carbon

• Zeolite (for ammonia control)

• Phosphate Remover (for algae control)

👉 All in One Filter Media Pack

4. Suggested Filter Media Setup for HW-302

Here’s an example of a well-balanced setup for a 2–3 ft freshwater aquarium using the HW-302:

• Tray 1 (Bottom): Coarse Sponge + Fine Pad

• Tray 2 (Middle): Ceramic Rings + Bio Balls

• Tray 3 (Top): Activated Carbon or Zeolite

This combination ensures mechanical filtration comes first, biological in the middle, and chemical filtration last.

5. Maintenance Tips for Media

• Rinse sponges and pads every 3–4 weeks in old tank water (not tap water).

• Replace chemical media (like carbon) every 4–6 weeks for best results.

• Do not replace all biological media at once, or you may lose beneficial bacteria.

Why Choosing the Right Media Matters

The SunSun HW-302 is a powerful canister filter, but its true performance depends on the media you choose. With the right setup, you can enjoy crystal-clear water, healthy fish, and stable aquarium conditions for years.

👉 Ready to customize your filter? Order SunSun HW-302 Canister Filter here

All Author Posts