Filter Combos

[GillStorm]

Hi,

I have a 55 gal-getting ready to set up. My stand/cabinet has limited height space. Really want cannister filter...The Filstar XP2 will NOT fit. The Filstar XP1 is only good for up to 45 gal. Would adding a HOT filter (rena smart?) or emperer biowheel help pick up the slack? I wouldn't go with a huge HOT, maybe only a rena smart30, or a emperer 280. Any advice-direction to go with? Looking for the biowheel to be a quiet and small in dimension, to not take up the space on the tank faces. It is a room dividing set up. I appreciate all the advice. Thanks

[irishspy]

I'm surprised the XP2 won't fit a cabinet -- is it a custom job?

Don't take the upper ratings for filters seriously; the companies always overstate them. Since you're planning on an XP1, I'd definitely add a second filter. Aquaclear (http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+3579+3610&pcatid=3610) makes a well-regarded hang-on-the-back model. I'd recommend the AC 70 for your tank. :idea:

Regarding the SmartFilter, I don't have any experience of them, but, given the quality of the XP series, I imagine they're pretty good.

[Hooked Newbie]

I'd go bigger if you choose a HOB AC, not much cost difference between a 70 & a 110. I do go overboard with filtration though.. I like lots of fish! :)

[jm1212]

why not get two Xp1's?

[GillStorm]

Thanks,

I have heard/read that a bio wheel is the best filtration system. Since I am trying to keep the tank "free" of as much face/side clutter as possible, I would prefer the smaller version. There are so many options and opinions, but I appreciate all your inputs.

[Beowulff83]

I have a 55 gal and am running a mag 350 and i just recently got an ac70 and love it

[TMDragon]

Mmm, I love Bio-Wheels, I've had my HOB Penguin 350 for 5 or 6 years no problems. Personally I would recommend getting the Emperor, but maybe a bigger model to go along with your XP1. Canisters are limited when it comes to bio-filtration because all the media is submerged in the canister and bio-wheels will more than compensate for that. The good bio-filtration on it will help prevent water chemistry fluctuations when changing water because ideally you dump the water in the canister. If you decide not to get a bio-wheel filter, and because you don't have a sump, I would suggest getting a spong filter to help your bio-filtration in that case. Good Luck!