What Kind Of Filter?

[kitsune1324]

I'm setting up a 30 gallon community.
I'm kinda a newbie..

But i was wondering what kind of filter to use. Like an under gravel filter, or one that sits in the top of the tank.
I'm not very familiar with the names.. But suggestions would be nice!
Please help!!

~Danny

 

[LondonguyJ]

Hi Danny and welcome to the forum.

I would recommend an ehiem 2215. I recently bought one of these and can confirm that they are completely silent and create a good current/ flow rate.

That aside may I suggest you post over at the welcome section and introduce yourself to the board

J

 

[drobbyb]

On a 30 gallon tank you have a few options. There is nothing wrong with an undergravel system. Sure, it's technology is old, but it's still effective. I would recommend a good quality HOB like the Aquaclear line, or a small canister like the one suggested above. Both have their pros and cons, but do a little research and see which one fits your budget and needs.

 

[kitsune1324]

So under gravel would work okay? Because i want to have as clean and clear water as i can. And i'm not sure if under gravel would do that..

 

[nurglespuss]

Well for a long time before external filters became available, I would use a combination of both an internat filter for 'mechanical' filtration, and an undergravel filter for 'biological' filtration, in a tank that size, it would be more than adequate

 

[kitsune1324]

Aright! Thankyou!

 

[Assaye]

So under gravel would work okay? Because i want to have as clean and clear water as i can. And i'm not sure if under gravel would do that..

Under gravel filters are excellent for keeping water clean. Like all filters, they much be cycled before they can do their job (info on cycling here). However, they do put restrictions on what sort of substrate and plants you can have and require the tank to be pulled apart if you want to do proper maintainence.

I'd recommend a small external or a large HOB/internal. The Fluval U4 might work OK (I have the U2 and it's very impressive). You can always use more than one filter.

 

[zophie]

I don't really like under ground filters. They keep the water clean, but are very hard to clean. My fave our clip on power filters, like AquaClear.