How big is your tank actually? Length, Width & Height?
JBL Flora Pro Is another cheap option @ $27.00 it lasts for about 3 years and becomes solid ish like clay and is easy to remove. It will also need to be capped.
Don't vacuum near your plants roots. When you are starting it make sure the end thats in not the tank is below the one in the tank. i just use my mouth to start my siphon.
I have used the top four.
Both flourishes work well same as Prime which i just add a dash of to every WC. Garlic guard is really just a flavor enhancing product.