40 gal Filters

[StarOrbs]

I'm thinking about giving my mom my canister filter mainly because it's overkill for my lightly stocked 40 gal. I have 2 Convicts, 7 cories and 1 RBN pleco and I'm wondering what HOB filter would be best. I can only fit one that has 3.25" space behind the back of the tank. I was either thinking Aquaclear 70 or 2 Aquaclear 50's due to its clearing space of 2.5". Is this overkill?

I've also been reading that these filters sometimes don't prime themselves automatically if the power goes out which wories me.. Any ideas and/or suggestions? Thanks..

 

[swampcat]

I have been using aquaclears for years. Own every model except the ac-70 (300). These filters are great, most of all the cheapest to use. I use a ac-500 (110) on my planted 55 gallon and two ac-500's on my 100 gallon which is a little on the overstocked side.

I have a ac-200 (50) on a plastic tub believe it or not with two cons. Have a ac-200 on a 20 long.

These filters have never let me down. I honestly can not see wasting money on more expensive external filters. Any media that can be put in a canister can be used in an aquaclear.

A local aquarium store in my area has 3 -220 gallon tanks set up using only 3 ac-500's on each tank.

 

[colen]

I also own many Acqua Clears, 7 to be exact. Some are very OLD and are still running. I have nothing but good things to say about these filters.

About the priming after the hydro has been out - it all depends. Sometimes a couple of mine don't start up without adding a little water, but more do then don't.

You can't go wrong purchasing an AC, you'll be pleased with the performance and how reliable they are. Best of all they are some of the cheaper filters you can get, and cheapest to run (filter media etc) in my experience anyways.

Over the years I have wasted money trying out different types of fitlers. In my opinion there are very few filters on the market that can even compete with the AC's...

Good luck on whatever you decide.

Oh, and I woudlnt bother spending money on the carbon and ammonia inserts, just put 2-3 sponges in them and you'll be set.