Filter for a 5 gal?

[ECH2005]

What kind of filter would you guys suggest for a 5 gal tank (that isn't a UGF). I'm planning on housing a betta and 3 cories or a few white cloud minnows (i read somewhere on the forums that they're a good match).

 

[xbanditsx]

I actually have that exact set up right now (it may have been my thread you were reading). I have a Whisper Internal Micro Filter that came with a kit that I got (Aquascene 5). So far it seems to be working pretty well.

 

[ECH2005]

this i take it

im assuming thats both a biological and mechanical filter? im still a newb at this stuff, hehe. And how long did it take you to cycle your tank?


edit----


ooo, I almost forgot. Can I get a heater for a tank this small? We just got our A/C fixed in my house, and I don't want the temp of the tank dropping to low when the A/C's on


edit again---

i found somewhere that says 5 watts per gal, so a 25 watt like this should work, right?

 

[cutechic]

Yes, you can use a 25W heater in there. I actually use a 50W in my 5 gallon, with no problems.

I've got a Penguin Mini filter in my 4 gallon, and a Penguin Mini w/ Biowheel in the 5 gallon.

 

[Nina7777]

Hi there- IMO i don't like the internal micro filter. Although the keep the water pretty decent, I had alot of trouble with it vibrating the tank too much.

I used an aquatech 5-10 gallon filter. Did a good job.

Or you can always try dual spongefilters. They are perfect for bettas.

 

[ECH2005]

each sponge filter requires an air pump, right? which ones do you suggest, or do they usually come with the filters?

 

[nmarc3627]

yes sponge filters require air pumps but they work great. order them online

 

[Nina7777]

I use these sponge filters
Sponge Filters



I find those sponge filters keep the water the clearest.

You can use one air pump and buy a 2 way gang valve to connect the two filters to one air pump.