Filters :)

[Nome1507]

Hi, I looking for advice on filters for a 30L tank I currently use a stingray.
Thanks you

 

[PheonixKingZ]

For a tank that small, I would get a small air-powered sponge filter.

 

[Nome1507]

For a tank that small, I would get a small air-powered sponge filter.

Thank you ?

 

[PheonixKingZ]

No problem!

 

[FishGuest5123]

It was explained to me last night that sponge filters are good for beneficial filtration but not for mechanical filtration. However, I have several in my betta tanks. If you do large weekly water changes and cleanings then it should be fine.

 

[AbbeysDad]

Do you think you need to change? Is your water clear?

 

[Essjay]

The Stingray does have a reputation for fish getting stuck behind it. The main issue is the carbon-zeolite filter boxes. Carbon isn't needed and zeolite removes ammonia which starves the bacteria.

Unless there is another reason for changing the filter, I would replace the carbon zeolite boxes with sponge, any make cut to the size and shape of the box. And if you are worried about fish getting stuck behind it, a layer of filter wool between the filter and the tank wall will stop fish getting in there.

 

[mrsjoannh13]

If you want a small, low profile hang on back filter, I am a big fan of the Marina Slim filters. There is a Marina S10 for 10 gallon tanks which would work for you. It is very slim but allows some spots for extra filter media like bio rings and extra pads. It is SUPER quiet. I have one in my daughter's bedroom right next to her bed and you can't even tell it's running. It also has the motor in the tank so it self primes if the power goes out. I've been very happy with mine.

 

[Nome1507]

Do you think you need to change? Is your water clear?

Yes my water is clear but my guppies got court in it and damage there fin then the dead

 

[Essjay]

That sounds familiar. Many people report their fish getting caught by the filter, usually in the space between the filter and the tank wall. If that's what happened to your guppy, you can fill the space with filter wool to stop the fish going in there.


If you want to change the filter, I have the Eheim PickUp 45 in my 23 litre tank. This has just sponge media, so you could take the sponges from the Stingray and cut them up to make them fit, filling any space left with part of the sponge that comes with the filter.

 

[jonny-5]

I am mixed on the reports but as i have a stingray i can tell you ive never had no trouble & the carbon boxes inside have been there since new so will not be any use now but i kept them cos of the gaps internally it is 15 years old now & is super quiet, Has new sponges every now & then & works great. Water is always crystal clear, As this is in my breeding/growout tank i cant report on any fish getting stuck in it. I have seen the fry pecking the sponge for food though where it sucks the water in but never had any deaths

 

[Essjay]

How exactly are the guppies getting caught? Are they being sucked to the intake?

 

[663]

I would replace the carbon zeolite boxes with sponge, any make cut to the size and shape of the box.

Speaking of such, is there a preferred way to cut filter foam in a precise way? I have two large blocks of 40PPI I'd like to see in use.

 

[eatyourpeas]

I cut a template out of heavy paper, then press it over the sponge material with a heavy plate/cardboard and clamps. Use a very sharp utility or X-acto knife and carefully cut following the contour of the template.

 

[663]

Sounds like fun. In an easy to mess-up sort of way.