Does Anyone Use A Canister Filter And A Hang On Back Together?

[dangerhack]

do you guys use just one or find that its better to use both hang on back an canister filter?

 

[Katty]

I just use a hang on filter only. If I were going to bother spending a lot on a canister filter, I would make sure it was strong enough that I didn't need to use two filters at once. I can't imagine why you'd have to use two at one time on a regular basis unless you were trying to cycle one of them to put on another tank? Maybe I'm missing something here...

 

[Tolak]

This is typically done with larger messy fish. Typically folks keeping larger cichlids will do this. The idea is that certain filters have strong and weak points, using two filters with different strong points helps with filtration.

Lower flow canisters generally are really good bio filters, being lower flow they are not as good at mechanical filtration. HOB filters, having a higher flow rate for the media they hold are generally better mechanical filters. Load the canister with bio media, set up the HOB with mechanical media, and you have a good filtration setup for fish that need it.

 

[karin]

I have an Eheim 2213 that while rated for something like 90 gallons, was not doing a good job with mechanical filtration on my 60 gallon tank. It was suggested here to rely on the Eheim for biological filtration and an HOB for mechanical. I am liking having two filters on the tank, the water is looking great now. (In fact, I think it was Tolak that suggested it.)

 

[TwoTankAmin]

I have a 75 Gal with an Eheim Pro II 2026, a H.O.T. Magnum and and AquaClear 300 (aka 70) on it.
The Eheim is loaded for Bio and mech, the H.O.T. is loaded for mech and the AquaClear is loaded for bio and mech and handles any chemical needs when they arise.