Question about filters and how they are rated

[ccg]

Hello everyone, hope you are all doing well today.

I have a question about filters and how they go about rating them for tank sizes.

To start off with, I have ALWAYS used at least two filters per tank, usually 3, and the filters have always been rated for just over what the tank was.

I just got a great deal on a 45 gallon tank (I paid $30 canadain for it). I have a filter (Aqua Clear 200 - 50gph) that I can use for it, as along with a heater and gravel/lights. I can't put much more money into this setup as I am a college student on a very tight budget.

I have an extra Aqua Clear 200 sitting around that I can use for this tank, it is rated to do 50 gph. I am wondering if this will be enough for the 45 gallon tank? I have always gone overkill big time on filters, just because I have came across good deals on them and ised them.

What do you think? I have a 45 gallon with a filter rated for a 50 gal and I want fish. I plan on keeping about a dozen tiger barbs along with lots of drift wood. Do I need to get another filter or is this going to be enough?

Thanks for your thougts / ideas I really apprecite it.

Take it easy guys,
Colen.

 

[webcat5]

It should be enough but it will be almost at full capacity. Just make sure to keep an eye on things and do not over stock the tank at all, not even a little bit.

 

[Blue Lobster]

It's too small a filter. However if you go with live plants and a light fish load it might work.

Better to go to a plumbing shop and ask for scrap pieces of PVC pipe.(Usually free) and then get some foam.

Check out the DIY foam filter/bubblers.

http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?showtopic=85297

http/www.cichlid-forum.com/articles/diy_spongefilter.php

 

[ccg]

Blue Lobster, thats funny you suggested that. I have made one of thsoe already

I also have several air pumps / matured sponge filters that I can use. I am wondering if i should pick up a second HOB filter for the tank.

 

[webcat5]

Just looked at the box of an Aqua Clear 200. Rated for aquariums UP TO 50 US gallons. Once again, as I said in previus post, the 200 will be at it's maximum capacity but should work.