This review delves into the JUWEL 3D aquarium background, offering a comprehensive look at its installation and overall performance. The author's experience begins unexpectedly with minor damage to their new JUWEL aquarium, leading to a credit that ultimately financed the purchase of the 3D background. This seemingly fortuitous event highlights both the potential benefits and unforeseen challenges associated with this premium aquarium accessory. The review covers various aspects, from initial ordering and the surprising need for an additional panel to achieve complete coverage, to the intricacies of fitting the included filter plates.The author meticulously details the installation process, offering valuable advice on cutting the panels and using the provided adhesive. Ultimately, despite encountering compatibility issues and a higher-than-expected cost, the review concludes with a positive assessment of the final aesthetic result. While acknowledging significant drawbacks, particularly regarding sizing and fit for the JUWEL Rio 450 model, the author ultimately finds the 3D background enhances the aquarium's visual appeal, making it a worthwhile investment despite some necessary compromises.
Pros And Cons
- Easy to cut
- Looks cool
- Looks more natural than a blue background
- Expensive
- Need three plates for a Dual 450, even though only a portion of the third is used
- Plates don't fit together seamlessly; large gaps and pattern mismatches
- Filter plate doesn't fully cover filter on Dual 450
- Filter plate doesn't have a specific size for Dual 450, resulting in mismatched lines
- Requires 24-72 hours to cure; not recommended to apply with a full tank
- Plates tend to float and require methods to secure them during curing
Read more: Top 5 Freshwater Aquarium Backgrounds
Unexpected Damage and a Fortunate Turn of Events
My JUWEL aquarium arrived with some minor cosmetic damage on the back panel. While not structurally compromising, it did provide an unexpected opportunity. After contacting the company, they fairly offered a credit note to compensate for the imperfection.
This credit was the perfect excuse to finally explore something I'd always been curious about: a 3D aquarium background. While the price had always deterred me, the essentially 'free' money changed my perspective.
This unexpected discount influenced my decision to try it, making it feel like a low-risk investment, despite the normally higher price point. The damage, which is entirely hidden, was replaced by an interesting enhancement.
The Background Panels: Size and Seamlessness Issues
I ordered two large background plates, intending to cover the back of my JUWEL Rio 450. However, a major drawback quickly emerged: the JUWEL Rio 450 requires three panels for complete coverage, not just two.
The panels, while visually appealing, didn’t perfectly align. There’s a noticeable gap running down the length of the background where the patterns don't match. For the price (55-70 GBP per panel), a seamless, perfectly matching pattern would have been expected.
This was especially frustrating given that only a small portion of a third panel was truly necessary to completely cover the back. The lack of a properly sized option for the 450 model seemed odd, especially given the higher cost of the panels.
Filter Plate Compatibility and Challenges
The filter plates are another area of concern. Finding a filter plate specifically designed for the JUWEL Rio 450 proved difficult. Although the online description claimed compatibility, the fit wasn't ideal.
The front plate's lines didn’t entirely match, requiring adjustments. More seriously, the side piece intended for the filter didn't even provide full coverage. The lack of a precise fit for the Rio 450 model is disappointing, especially for a premium product.
While I could've adapted the filter plate through additional trimming and cutting, this was another layer of unexpected work. I ended up with an imperfect fit that looks somewhat makeshift, not seamless or professional-looking. There is a lack of attention to detail on smaller components.
Installation Process, Adhesive, and Tips
The background panels are relatively easy to cut using the provided hacksaw blade, although it does create some dust. I recommend performing this step outside or in a well-ventilated area.
Securing the background with the Connexo adhesive is straightforward. However, it requires 24-72 hours to cure. Applying it to a tank full of water is strongly discouraged because the panels tend to float.
I strongly advise installing the background before filling the tank or setting up your fish. This minimizes the risk of the panels shifting during the curing process and prevents any potential issues with your fish. Careful measuring and cutting are essential to avoid mistakes.
Final Thoughts and Recommendation
Despite the minor frustrations with panel sizing and filter plate compatibility, I'm ultimately pleased with the final look. The 3D background adds a natural and visually striking element to the aquarium.
I'm particularly excited to see how algae grows on it, further enhancing the natural aesthetic. I may even add some plants to certain crevices for added depth and visual interest.
Would I recommend it? Yes, but with caveats. The price and fit issues make it a less budget-friendly choice. However, for those willing to invest time and effort to resolve these issues, the result is visually stunning and enhances the aquarium environment.