New Filter Ideas

[Timmy_Bee]

I have got a Juwel Rio 180 (180L tank) and am thinking of upgrading the filter. At the mo, i have got the original built in jobbie.
My stocking is edging on the side of full with a selection of barbs, 2 dwarf gourami, 4 buenos areas tetra and two common plecos (will be re-homed when i get round to it - both no more than 3" at the mo)

I am hoping to get an external, but not really sure if it would be the right thing. (i don't know much about different filter types)

What i want is: Something that will be more powerful but is also quiet. Im keen on an external, because i would rather there wasn't a huge box one side of my tank.

Are externals noisy? is this a stupid idea?

Oh, also, im not rich so i would like something cheap

 

[KittyKat]

Eheims are completely silent, in my experience. I recommend the 3/3e range or the classic. The 3/3e range are expensive, but the classic are quite affordable. They are also generally efficient and last for a long time.

 

[kevinjames]

my externals are nearly silent especially when in cupbourd under tank. i have a fluval 305 and 2 aqua one aquis externals. i have an aqua one running in my bedroom 6 foot away from where i sleep and i cant hear it at all. both are quite good value and can be found second hand quite easily.

 

[KittyKat]

Yes, the Fluval 305 I have is silent, but compared to the Eheim I replaced it with, it is loud! Actually, I currently have the Fluval 305 listed for sale elsewhere on this forum, if you are interested.

 

[Timmy_Bee]

i am looking at a site that has a 305 for £75. that sounds like a good price. i think?
They also have a Tetratec Ex700 for £78. Anyone had any experience of these?

I think il look around until i can get a good 2nd hand one. How long are these good for? most seem to have 3yr warranty. Would it be stupid to buy one thats older than this?

 

[Timmy_Bee]

But... i can get a Fluval U4 for £45 which is internal, but would be better than my current one, looks smaller and is cheaper than the externals... hm.......

 

[KittyKat]

Internals are more bother, I find, and take up too much space inside the tank

 

[Timmy_Bee]

i am tempted by your 305. Will have a bit more of a butchers on the ol' www to get some more reviews. Am a bit worried that a few people claim they leak from the lids / pipes

 

[kevinjames]

my 305 hasnt had a problem with leaking and its 2+ years old. all good branded externals a built to last imo. they are on 24/7 and seem to last years.

 

[VaegaVic]

I would 100% recommend the Eheim classics.
https/www.arkpetsonline.co.uk/eheim-classic-2215-with-filter-pads-double-taps-p-1780.html