Filter Suggestions

[PygmyMitch]

I’m considering changing my internal filter. I’ve tried the Interpret CF filter. I really liked this filter as the filter can be easily lifted out if needed and the sponges can easily be removed without removing the filter. Only problem I had was that the bracket for the filter kept falling off the back of the glass.

Then I tried the Fluval U1 filter but there isn’t much space for sponges and media and also, I sadly lost a fish as it got stuck in the cable way on the back.

Can anyone suggest any other filters that may be better ?

Also whats everyones rule of thumb for the L/ph rate ? as I have read different answers online. thanks

 

[Essjay]

whats everyones rule of thumb for the L/ph rate

That depends on the fish. Fast swimming fish which dash around like a fast water flow. Others which potter slowly round the tank need a gentle water flow.


I like Eheim Aquaballs and Biopowers. The Aquaballs have just sponges as their media. And they have replaceable suckers for when they won't stick to the glass any longer.

 

[PygmyMitch]

Well I have neon tetras which aren’t very active, and I have dwarf corys which can be quite active at times. my tank is 48 litres.

Does the aquaball filter have to be removed from the tank to access the sponges ?

 

[GaryE]

The usual formula is five times the tank volume per hour. But that rating is usually for an empty fil;ter. I tend to go with ten times per hour minimum.

the problem with internal filters is their size and how little media they hold. I use large sponge filters for tanks that are to be stocked (lightly) with slow water fish. A sponge filter powerhead combo can work if you only have one tank and a little DIY ability.

 

[PygmyMitch]

The usual formula is five times the tank volume per hour. But that rating is usually for an empty fil;ter. I tend to go with ten times per hour minimum.

the problem with internal filters is their size and how little media they hold. I use large sponge filters for tanks that are to be stocked (lightly) with slow water fish. A sponge filter powerhead combo can work if you only have one tank and a little DIY ability.

Yeah every where I have read has been between 5 and 10. Yeah agreed internal filters don’t have much space inside. I have once tried a sponge filter, but with the tank being in my bedroom and the pump being external to the tank, the noise of the pump wasn’t the best on a night time. Have you got any good recommendations for the powerhead combo ? assuming they dont have an external pump ?

 

[10 Tanks]

I’m considering changing my internal filter. I’ve tried the Interpret CF filter. I really liked this filter as the filter can be easily lifted out if needed and the sponges can easily be removed without removing the filter. Only problem I had was that the bracket for the filter kept falling off the back of the glass.

Then I tried the Fluval U1 filter but there isn’t much space for sponges and media and also, I sadly lost a fish as it got stuck in the cable way on the back.

Can anyone suggest any other filters that may be better ?

Also whats everyones rule of thumb for the L/ph rate ? as I have read different answers online. thanks

Hello sam. Actually, if you just change out half the tank water every few days, you won't need much more than a standard sponge filter. I like Maxxclean brand sponge filters. AquaMiracle has a very good air pump to run the sponge. Anyway, if you change the tank water often enough, the filter is just filtering water that's already clean.

10 Tanks