External Filters

[Labyrinth]

Ok, Ok, I know this question has already come up, but I want to shine some light on it again for me!!

I currently have a Fluval Internal Filter, it give way too much current and is an awkward thing to get out an clean, plus its probably sucking up my little fry that the platys are producing.

I want a External Filter now, but I don’t know want brand.

Fluval: nice and cheap , but I’ve heard they leak and fail
Eheim: Expensive , but most people have no problem with them

The trouble is i want a nice less expensive one that most people have no problems with

And I don’t know because I’ve never brought any of my fish stuff off the internet, would I be better off buying the Filter of eBay? Or would I be safer with one from my LFS?

Thanks in advance for the help

Lab

 

[Matty]

better post this in the hardware forum

and yeah, eheim is the best way to go. definately worth the extra quid.

 

[Durbkat]

If they have them in the UK I'd recommend the marineland penquin bio wheel filter, but be sure to run both filters at the same time for about 3 to 4 weeks so the new filter can get enough bacteria in it and monitor water stats for signs of a mini cycle. What size tank is it?

 

[Labyrinth]

Is a 120 Litre tank, See sig. for more details

 

[Durbkat]

Sorry guess I missed that.

 

[basia]

I've got a Fluval 204 on my 120 litre tank and have never had any problems with it.
Edit: They cost about £50 in Pets at Home and just in case there are problems it is easier dealing with local shops than internet - just a thought.

 

[fishing4exotics]

Hi Lab, even if you go with an external filter you still run the risk of having fry sucked up. What I sometimes do for your situation is to put wrap a sponge around the intake and secure it with rubber bands. The sponge should be large pores that does not impede the water flow but not allow fry to pass through.

 

[Labyrinth]

Thanks for the post so far!!

I have another Question though

Eheim have the two types, Ecco and Prof. II.

Prof. II is more expensive so it is better, but are they basically the same, power and reliability wise, or is it better to go for the Prof. II

Thx

 

[Jen]

I have running a fluval 304 on my tank for about 8 months now, and aside from some stupidity on my end (not replacing the o ring) I have had no problems with leaking. It was also a second hand filter, so not even 6 years of wear and tear has gotten to it.

 

[Amerce]

I have an Eheim Ecco 2234 and it only cost me £62 so that isn't expensive, and before you ask yes it was a new one.

 

[AncientMariner]

Ehiem External for me. But only started keeping fish last May so don't know any different.

If for any reason you decide to splash out a bit extra cash, go for 'Thermo' external.

Mines a 2128 model. Everything about it is superb as far as filters go

 

[Barkley]

I have fluvel 303 no problems been up and running for about 18mths great flilter

 

[Fish_Mike]

Eheim also has Classic, Pro I and now Pro III

The only real difference between Classic and Pro is that the Pros are more user friendly, though I find I never have to touch my Classic anyway.

Eccos are fine too, but mainly for smaller tanks.

 

[ccg]

Have you considerd getting an Aqua Clear?

I have 14 of them and have yet to have a problem.

 

[Fella]

I've got a Fluval 204 on my 120 litre tank and have never had any problems with it.
Edit: They cost about £50 in Pets at Home and just in case there are problems it is easier dealing with local shops than internet - just a thought.

Likewise. 3 year guarantee, and the DVD I got with mine telling me how to set it up makes great viewing.


EIDT - actually mine is the new 05. Great stuff.