Filters

[turnnidge]

I currently have a new tank set up that new im still trying to get it cycled lol

I was wondering what is better an external or internal filter?

I currently have a fluval 3 PLUS filter for my 125l tank.

Is it worth upgrading to an external or would the internal be fine?

 

[clairelovestlc]

I don't have any experience of external filters but i use the fluval 2 plus and have never had a problem with it!

 

[raptorrex]

I currently have a new tank set up that new im still trying to get it cycled lol

I was wondering what is better an external or internal filter?

I currently have a fluval 3 PLUS filter for my 125l tank.

Is it worth upgrading to an external or would the internal be fine?

not sure one is better, both may have advantages. the internal, though it takes space in the tank, means you have less gear to store beneath it. on the down side, you have to mess in the tank to clean it, and they usually have a smaller filtration area. externals are less obtrusive in the tank, but you have to route tubes and find space for the thing. i feel the external wins on, bio area, reduced maintenance and the sheer diversity of media you can use.

 

[Deadlyscorpion]

I have the same tank as you, and I have an external filter, because the internal one seemed to be sluggish quite often, with the external it is easy to maintain, don't have to turn of during water change (as long as your input tube stays below the water) and generally better, I also have a spray bar fitted.

 

[Bloo]

In my opinion, external if you have the space to hide it. External is a quick clean every few months as opposed to fiddly, messy bits every week. Increased filter volume = much better filtration = much better for fish. Downside is the initial cose which is higher - but you can usually pick up a good second on eBay.

 

[turnnidge]

Well the tank is sitting on top of a unit that came with the tank, so on one side there is a massive cupboard that can hold it, mind you depends if it can get out of the small cupboard door lol

OK, I think it might be better to go for an external filter, can anyone recommend a decent one for the tank?

Thanks for your replies!! much appreciated!

 

[backtotropical]

Hi Turnnidge,

The Fluval 205 would be a good obvious choice.

Also take a look at the Eheim 2222 and the Tetratec EX700.

Cheers

BTT

 

[Bloo]

Eheim is my recommendation. A Eheim classic 2213 would be just fine - though if you have the money the 2222 would be much nicer and even easier to maintain. I ran a 2213 on a similar sized thank.

 

[turnnidge]

OK great thanks.

I'm looking at the Eheim 2222, does anyone know what seapets.co.uk are like?

 

[Bloo]

They're great - I've bought from them before no probs for me.

 

[waterdrop]

OK great thanks.

I'm looking at the Eheim 2222, does anyone know what seapets.co.uk are like?

turnnidge,

I have a 2222 with a hydor 200w heater spliced into the output tube. Nothing is perfect in the long run but so far this has been an awesome piece of machinery. I can't even feel any vibration with my hand on it, much less any sound, other than water sounds if you move the spray bar above the water line.

~~waterdrop~~

 

[vinylman]

turnnidge,
If you take a look at www.zooplus.co.uk, they usually have the Tetratec externals MUCH cheaper than you'll find anywhere else. Just check the height of your cupboard first, just to be on the safe side. I never thought to check mine before I bought the Ex700; it fits in the cupboard with 2'' to spare. Talk about a close shave.............