Filter Question

[Jenni84]

Hey guys,

I currently have an Interpet PF3 running in my tank but want something better.

Id really like to get an external filter but i dont really have anywhere to put it as my tank is just on a stand that doesnt have any cupboards.

Can anyone recommend a really good internal filter?

Thanks

Jen

 

[fett999]

Try the fulval U series. They're a really good little internal and nice and easy to clean

Fett

 

[KAISER]

Try the fulval U series. They're a really good little internal and nice and easy to clean

I have the U3 and would have to agree, but also have to admit I'm new to the hobby and have no frame of reference!

 

[Jenni84]

Im just looking at the U4 it sounds good...

 

[SimoUK]

I have a U2, its great, would defo reccomend it

Simo

 

[jonnyf84]

when looking for filters base your decision on its turnover rate providing your stock is comfortable with fast flow or alternatively use a spray bar, you can then change the filter media as you see fit. Look for a turnover rate of at least 5 times your aquarium volume per hour.

 

[OldMan47]

I have a different spin than I usually see. I do not agree that flow has much of anything to do with effective filtration. The filter's volume dictates how much media can be added to the filter. A larger filter simply will hold more biological media. All that I expect my filter to do is prevent the harmful build up of ammonia and nitrites. At less than 1X turnover rates, a large enough filter will get the job done for the fish. For aesthetics, a higher flow rate can be helpful in keeping the water looking pretty but that is about all flow will do for you. I find that most manufacturers make filters bigger as they make flows higher so it tends to work out either way, but I don't kid myself about the actual flow rate being very important.

 

[SlyPolak]

Why don't you try a HOB?

 

[england]

Sly HOB'S are not big here in the uk, i used to have one in a tank and did not rate it at all...

I have two u4's they are great filters,iam a fluval man myself, the u4 has 5 different flow types, 1 from the top, 1 from the bottom, 1 goes left/1 goes mid/and other goes right from a spray bar which runs up from the bottom to top of the filter, Three cartridges inside two with sponge and one i have filled on both with cyramics....I love them..

 

[smithyif]

i cahnged to the U4 about 6 months ago and cant fault the filter in anyway for an internal filter

 

[elisew]

Hi jenny

I too have been looking to change my filter, or should I say filters. I currently have 2 Fluval plus filters in my 180 ltr but feel that because my fish are regularly dying maybe I need to look at better more suitable options. It's difficult to know what to buy and what to do for the best, different ppl tell you different things based on their experiences and it gets confusing sometimes.

Amount of and how often water changes should be done and whether or not your filter works too much or too little have been the biggest things I find difficult to 'put my finger on'. I've now just bought the fluval 205 external filter in the hope I can get my tank sorted, however in my other tanks I've always used the fluvals and never had any reason to think they're not adequate enough.

Hope you manage to decide on a good option.
X

 

[england]

Fluval are the nuts....

But they have there drawbacks, esp with the older versions, they do need a bit of slap and tickle to get them going, ive always got along with my older fluvals flaws...but the newer ones i have the 2 fluval u4's and the fluval fx5, thus far trouble free, also brought my sister the newer external fluval 405 and again to date no trouble at all

 

[Jenni84]

Thanks for the replies everyone

I think i am probably going to go with the U4 as the reviews i have read have been really good. I have also been looking at the new Fluval E Series digital heaters.....has anybody tried one of these yet?

Thanks again

Jenni