What Filter And Heater

[Flunter]

Howdo all

I am planning to build my own tropical tank.
From my available space, I have worked out (using your very useful calculator ) that my tank will be approx 320ltr.

Could you please advise (or preferably recommend) what the best filter system and heater would be?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Chri$]

Have a look here Aquatics Online

I would reccomend Eheim

 

[PaulEbs]

Have a good browse on Ebay too, there's always bargains to be had!

With a tank that size a 200/300 watt heater should do - it's always worth having a spare though!

Paul.

 

[Flunter]

Sorry to be a pain peeps but would you recommend an internal or external filter?

 

[polypterus]

Sorry to be a pain peeps but would you recommend an internal or external filter?

I've used about five or so different arrangements over the years. A lot depends on tank load. If you want to spend a lot of money you can go all out and get Rainbow Lifeguard modules but it's really overkill for most tanks. My basic store bought setup has always been Reverse flow UGFs + one or two Aquaclear back filters. Some people don't like UGFs and you can get away with just canister or back filters but you have to makes sure you clean them correctly so you don't kill your bacteria colony off. Also I personally like back-filters a lot better than canister filters because they are easier to clean.

 

[Flunter]

Thanks for everything but I have 1 last question

The front of my tank will be 58" x 24". Obviously I will be using braces across the top. Will I be ok using 4mm float or shall I take the safer option and use 6mm?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Chri$]

Id go 6mm

 

[polypterus]

The other option I forget to mention is a fluidized bed filter. Lifegard makes are really good one although it’s a bit on the expensive side. I have used them quite a bit so I can tell you for sure they work well. This is basically a super compact bio filter that hangs on the back side of your tank. You can also hook it up inline with other types if filters. You will need a small pump or power head to drive it. You should still have a good mechanical filter to go with like an Aquaclear but it will take care of all your bio-filtration needs with ease. Even the small size is supposed to work up to a 300 gallon tank.

 

[Flunter]

I have seen the following filter on eBay and quite resonable, could you tell me what you think please.

Hailea HF 300

 

[polypterus]

I have seen the following filter on eBay and quite resonable, could you tell me what you think please.

Hailea HF 300

There are a lot of people that use canister filters and they do work well. I have no particular experience with the one you listed. However, In general I find canister filters to be a pain to clean. I used to look at all the fancy models and think "wow that must work well, cuz it looks cool". But after trying various models out, I started to think "why am I using a canister filter?". It doesn't work any better and it's harder to clean. Before I would use a large canister I would use 2 Aquaclears. (They used to make a giant aquaclear but I no longer see it listed. It was probably taking too much business way from the fluval canister filter) They are so easy to clean and therefore you tend to clean them more because it's not such a chore and consequently your tank stays in better shape. With Aquaclears you just walk up the thank turn off the filter and pull the whole rack straight up and stick everything in a bucket. Then you can rinse the sponge out (in old tank water if you don’t have a separate bio filter like a UGF) change whatever media you need and drop everything back in and turn the filter on. There are no valves, or seals to worry about. You don’t have to use their carbon bags either. Just buy your own and refill them if you want to save money. The sponge lasts years. You also have to option of using ceramic beads or whatever else you want.

 

[Flunter]

Thanks for everything but please forgive my ignorance.

I don't know what an Aquaclear is so I did a Google search. Aren't they just a powerhead?

 

[polypterus]

Thanks for everything but please forgive my ignorance.

I don't know what an Aquaclear is so I did a Google search. Aren't they just a powerhead?

No it's a backfilter. Actually I think they started making a powerhead called an Aquaclear also but what I'm talking about is the backfilter.

 

[Flunter]

Is this what you mean? Filter

 

[polypterus]

Is this what you mean? Filter

No this is what I'm talking about:

http/www.elmersaquarium.com/h112aquaclears.htm

 

[Flunter]

LOL, thanks for that but unfortunately my tank is pretty tight to the wall on 3 sides so I don't think it will suit my needs.
Thanks anyway for the help