Filtration recommendation for 180 liters (48US)

[Bloo]

I have a Juwel Vision 180 but lately I've noticed that the pump isn't as strong as it used to be. It's not clogged up or anything, as I take all the bits and pieces out every week and rinse in siphoned tank water. I also clean the impeller compartment etc. etc. so it's definitely not that.

So now I'm wondering if it's just old age (how long do they last), should buy a new power-head ? (Though I've heard that the new models are fairly noisy ? )

Or should I just take the whole thing out and replace it with a more powerful system ? Perhaps external - though I've never used externals before, but most people tend to swear by them ?

Recommendations appreciated.

 

[Fat Boy]

I and many others swear by Eheim, they are more expensive than the others but they are very well built and very quiet. I have an Eheim 2224 in my 190 L and I find it does me great. Try THIS link, ( click on choose a size on the 2222 ) I think the price is very good, the media never needs changing except the top filter pad when you come to do filter maintenance, which I do about once every month or so. HTH.

 

[Bloo]

Thanks for that FB. I'm swaying towards that option, but would just like to see what other say. So even if you are of the same opinion, do let me know please !

Another question though: If I do get a new external filter, how should I go about setting it up ? Could i just set it up alongside my existing one for a few weeks and then remove the old filter ?

 

[Fat Boy]

Keep your old filter running along side your new one for 2 weeks and you'll be fine.

 

[keane]

I have always used Fluvals, both the internal filters and external canisters, and have had no problems whatsoever. Water is always crystal.

I currently have a 2+ and 203 running on my 30 gallon and a 3+ and 304 running on my 55.

With regards to changing your filters, I would run them both together for a few weeks as suggested but I would also transfer some (not all) existing media from the old filter into the new one when you get it .

your bacteria colony will grow much quicker in the new filter doing it this way.

steve

 

[Bloo]

Thanks Steve. I currently actually also have an internal Fluval 2+ on one of my smaller tanks and it definitely does an ace job. So I'm just considering my options....

 

[Bloo]

Well thanks everyone - I finally bought the 2224 today ! and from my lfs at a rock bottom bargain price too ! £90 absolutely all inclusive - all pipework, all media the lot.
I even received a "free" 15 minute explanation of how it all fits together and how I need to set it up - bit by bit......
So guess what I'm doing this weekend ? B)