I picked up the bow tank yesterday for 60 cdn. I guess if I wanted to be technical I could set up fill marks on a sticker to see how many gallons I'm at. Yes I love how AQ gives you the space to use what media you would like to use. Okay I agree AQ is definitely my cheaper option for a great filter. Would you guys think it would be better for me to be running 2x AQ 70 for my 46g? Or is this not needed unless I'm going to have a lot of waste? Yeah I can find used fluval 204s for around 100 and the 304 for 150 or more. Also noting the sunsuns 302s are only about 150 new also. And I have heard a lot of good things come from them lately. As for my old filter yes I would run that filter in my new tank for maybe a month to get all that beneficial bacteria and swap a few things over as well.
Hang on filter(HOB) is still the easiest and most convenience to use.
On the other hand, canister filter will give a better or more effective filtration but will require more work for cleaning and maintenance.
If you are thinking of getting an
AQ hang on filter, then I suggest that you get
two AQ 50 instead of one AQ 70 for the following reasons:
1)It's better to have two lower power filters than one higher power filter. Too high power may create too much current flow in your tank and may not be suitable for most fish especially fish that prefer slower flow rate.
2)Having two filters will be more effective for your tank filtration as you can place one on the most right corner and the other on the most left.
3)When cleaning/maintaining your filters, always clean only "one" filter at a time and not both at the same time. This is to prevent you from removing too much beneficial bacteria from the filter medias. If you only have one filter, then you'll have to be more careful when cleaning the filter media.
4)Having two filters will also serves as a backup in the event one filter breakdown or malfunction.
One AQ50 can support a tank of up to 50gallons.
If you have two AQ50, it'lll be more than enough for your 46 gallons tank.
https/usa.hagen.com/Aquatic/Filtration/Clip-On/A610
By the way, take note that for
hang on filter, usually you have to fill the water up to very high level (near to the rim of the tank). So, just make sure that you're fine with the water level. (just a precaution note)
If you are considering getting a second-hand filter, make sure that you clean them properly with bleach to prevent any parasites/bacteria that is left behind.(just in case)
Lastly, you don't need to reuse your old filter for your new tank. You just need to
reuse your "old filter media".
Transfer the old filter media into your
new filter together with the new filter media so that the beneficial bacteria can be transferred directly to the new filter media.
Note: Make sure that your old filter is free from disease(parasite/bacteria).