Filters

[pianeon]

I recently purchased a complete 55 gallon setup from a friend who didn't have time for it. In the box of equipment he gave me there is a Fluval 304 and an AquaTech filter that looks like it attaches to the back of the tank.

Is there any reason I would need both of these running? Does the AquaTech do something that the Fluval doesn't?

Thanks for helping a newbie.

[OrionGirl]

Many people use multiple filters. It's a good way to protect the biological filtration by dividing it into multiple locations, as well as expand the amount of beneficial bacteria that can be supported. You can also run a wider variety of filter media this way. Depending on what fish you have, you may need just one, or you may want to run both of them. Personally, I think more filters are better, so even in a lightly stocked tank I run more than one.

[geoffgarcia]

while its true that the more room for media the better I personally would only use 1 filter.
rather than running 5 small units just get a big one that can do it all.

[Harlock]

I am in the planning stages of a 29 gallon myself and I inten to use two filters. I just like the redundant features idea... 2 filters, 2 heaters, in case one malfunctions.

[StreetCypher]

I suggest using both the filters.
Why not, right? You have two so use them. The benefits of multiple filters are great (what OG said).

[RTR]

All of my tanks above 10 gallons are multi-filtered. AFAIK, it is not possible to over-filter a tank. Too much current is possible, but that is a different issue.

[geoffgarcia]

I am in the planning stages of a 29 gallon myself and I inten to use two filters. I just like the redundant features idea... 2 filters, 2 heaters, in case one malfunctions.
I've been keeping fish for about 8 years now, never had a filter fail.
and if one were to fail it wouldn't be a big deal. I leave my filter off for weeks at a time anyway....plus as long as the heat in your house is on and your tank isn't right next to a window then redundant heaters is kinda pointless to.
I dunno...that idea seems like a big waste of money to me.
but if it works for you...

[Harlock]

I've been keeping fish for about 8 years now, never had a filter fail.
and if one were to fail it wouldn't be a big deal. I leave my filter off for weeks at a time anyway....plus as long as the heat in your house is on and your tank isn't right next to a window then redundant heaters is kinda pointless to.
I dunno...that idea seems like a big waste of money to me.
but if it works for you...

It works for me. Peace of mind is priceless.

[StreetCypher]

I've been keeping fish for about 8 years now, never had a filter fail.
and if one were to fail it wouldn't be a big deal. I leave my filter off for weeks at a time anyway....plus as long as the heat in your house is on and your tank isn't right next to a window then redundant heaters is kinda pointless to.
I dunno...that idea seems like a big waste of money to me.
but if it works for you...
I'd bet leaving the filter off for weeks at a time cause you to recycle, right? And just curious, but why leave tham off for so long?
As for the waste of money, i think its better to have a backup (in the case of a filter failing/breaking) to protect your fish. I think of it as protecting an investment, i paid a hefty sum of money for my fish, and the $50 for a second filter is all worth it.