Another 'best filter' topic

[Genki]

Hello! Well, I just can't deicde on the best filter. I'm getting a 55gal aquarium, so since it'd kinda big I was wondering if I should get two filters, one for either side, or if one big filter still works (maybe placed in the center?) I plan to stock on the low side, and create a nice little plant jungle. I'm rather fond of the external canister filters (I have a Fluval for my 29 gal and it's magical), but I've read that the bio-wheels on some hanging filters is good to have as well..

Bottom line: Shound I get one big filter, or two slightly smaller ones? Hang-on-the-back-bio-wheel filter or external canister?

Thanks!

 

[Lateral Line]

I only use external canisters on display/planted tanks. HOB/Biowheel type contraptions are too noisy, use up space around the top of the tank and create too much surface agitation.

If your budget stretches to 2 canisters, then great. I usually use 2 part rated canisters. Gives me redundency against failure and makes cleaning much easier. By careful placing and modification to the returns, I can also cut down the surface movement to a very small amount.

 

[robgurr]

I'm sure one high quality canister filter will be sufficient, but if you really feel like spending extra money you can go with two canister filters. I wouldn't recomend a hang on filter... they're too noisy and take up too much room. I'm getting a 90 gallon soon, and only putting one eheim filter in right now, i can''t afford two, not that i really need it though.

 

[yhbae]

Personally, I find a canister + power filter combo very attractive. Slight noise power filter makes is not an issue for me since the tank is in the living room, and besides, I kinda like to hear the water-flow noise...

What kind of species are you planning to accomodate into this tank? If it is not going to be a mbuna tank (==> overstocked), you are probably ok with a single decent canister filter.

As for the canister, I'd get either Eheim 2217 or Filstar XP3.

 

[jordan barnhart]

As long as you tank is filled and kept at a good water level your HOB filter won't make much noise at all. I run 2 HOB Whisper 30-60s on my 55 and keep the water level just even where the water is returned into the tank. It makes very little noise at all and it is in my bedroom.

Just though I'd throw that in there.

 

[Genki]

Thanks for your help everyone.