Thanks guys! I have changed out the filter pads, and all the other fun stuff, but........I don't think I've cleaned the impeller! Where the heck is the impeller? I assumed that it was built into the top part of the filter, and that it didn't come apart. I lost the manual about 10 minutes after I got this filter, as you can tell. I guess I'll be doing a search on the Eheim site, lol!
Regardless, I'm wondering if I should try using anther filter along with the 2215. I have a Fluval 404 running on a 77 gallon, that is doing a great job, one of my cleanest tanks. On my smaller tanks I use Aquaclears. I run an Aquaclear 70 on my 30 gallon, witch is my African Cichlid tank, and that tank is also amazingly clean and clear.
My 90 gallon is my show tank that is up against a wall, and it has a canopy on the top, so that means that I can't use an Aquaclear (that would have been my first choice for cost and ease of use). I have a Eheim 2217 that is brand new, still in box, that I was thinking of adding to my 90, along with the 2215 (the 2217 I was saving for my 75 gallon that isn't set up yet, but now I'm having second thoughts, I don't think it will be enough filter for my Africans as they get bigger).
Anyway, please let me know if you think combining the two Eheims sounds like a good idea, or if not maybe someone has another filter in mind that would work in my situation. I'd like to keep the 2215 running if for nothing other than the bio load.
Thanks, and sorry if this is a little long winded, I've been trying to figure this out for a while, and it's getting to me!
Natalie