View Full Version : Filter Preferences for 55 Gallon Planted
Riso-chan
07-13-2005, 3:17 AM
I obviously need a new filter soon, and my B-day is coming up on the 24th this month. I need some advice on what would do well on my 55g planted. Now, I'm looking to get a strongr flilter this time, one that filters a bit more over 60 gallons. I can't spend a huge amount of money, but I do need something that will get the job done. Something in the $50-$70 range. I was curious what brands seem to work the best for you guys.
Mine right now is a HOB power filter, so I'll need the same HOB format, but a bit better filtration. I will also be using porous sponge inserts instead of replaceable cartrigdes. This is method doubles for me as mechanical and bio-filtration. Do you think that's reasonable?
I'll check this post back in the morning, because I have the unfortunate habit of staying up 'til 3am lately and need to sleep. Thanx~ Angela
Bronx19
07-13-2005, 5:09 AM
Idealy, Id recommend a canister.
But it youd like to stick with HOB, you want something that'll filter that 55g about twice an hour.
Just look online for stores selling these filter, then search that product in google for user reviews, or ask here.
Actually, I jsut did some digging for you.
Fluval 104 canister filter, $54. http://www.nextag.com/canister-filter/search-html
Riso-chan
07-13-2005, 9:32 AM
It says it only filters up to 25 gallons though. I'll have to research canisters, but I think I might stick to HOB, though if I do find a good enough deal on a canister I'll go for it.
johnnyxxl
07-13-2005, 10:27 AM
don't look at the rating look at the rate of flow how many gallons per hour. ideally I think its 2 or more times per hour ie 55 gallon tank you want 100 or more gallons per hour. :D
Kasakato
07-13-2005, 12:16 PM
You want 4-5 cycles per hour ++. 2 is nothing at all. On my 20g I get something like 8.
cyberbeer65
07-13-2005, 12:43 PM
I would recomend an Aqua Clear 500/110,it's the best bang for your buck.
nursie
07-13-2005, 1:19 PM
I have a Filstar XP 2 on my 55 gallon and am happy with it. It's at the upper end of your price range. I got mine off ebay.
Kissofthegorami
07-13-2005, 6:03 PM
Canister fitlers are the best for a planted tank and pretty much the best over all and have to be maintained the least. Eheim 2013's are sold by petsmart.com for $65.00. I actually have a Rena Filstar xp2 for sale, its the next best thing to an eheim.
Bronx19
07-13-2005, 9:20 PM
Kas, 4-5 times an hour would generate a whirl pool in a tank.
If its fish only, and its fish that like a current, that would be ok, but for a planted tank you cant have that much force ripping through the tank.
Kasakato
07-13-2005, 9:23 PM
Kas, 4-5 times an hour would generate a whirl pool in a tank.
If its fish only, and its fish that like a current, that would be ok, but for a planted tank you cant have that much force ripping through the tank.
Iv already done this experment, with a 5g tank, and a FilStar xP1. I had something like 20x, and it was ok.
My 20g with its FilStar has 8 (I think) and there is no "whirlpool". O and its planted.
rich311k
07-13-2005, 9:29 PM
I have a well planted 36 gallon tank with an eheim canister on it that is rated for a 95 gallon tank. The current is not overwhelming at all and the plants do fine. As a matter of fact some plants grow better with a current.
4-5 rated , not measured, changes per hour are certainly not a whirlpool in any tank.
Plants need some current to overcome boundry layer effects. Even Diana Waldstad (of filterless planted tanks) uses powerhead to provide good current.
Riso-chan
07-14-2005, 12:16 AM
Canister fitlers are the best for a planted tank and pretty much the best over all and have to be maintained the least. Eheim 2013's are sold by petsmart.com for $65.00. I actually have a Rena Filstar xp2 for sale, its the next best thing to an eheim.
I was looking at those just now. I think I just might switch over to canister for the good of the plants. One thing though, I'm unsure of whether or not I should still get something that filters a higher gallon tank than my own. Or do canisters already do a very good job even if they are designed for a specific size tank? Thanx to everyone for their great advice!:) ~ Angela
hurdledude1298
07-14-2005, 12:19 AM
i have a 10 gallon planted tank with a filter going through at 105 gallons per hour it cleared my water in less than an hour