Filtration

[mattarcas]

I've been looking at getting some new filtration for my 135g tank. I currently use two Fluval 404 External Canister Filters. These seem to do the job quite well, together with weekly water changes but I've been looking at upgrading for a while. As anyone who has kept Oscars know you can never have enough filtration for the bioload they create and the mess they make.

I'm just looking for some experiences that you guys have. What media you use, what the best external filters are and if there are any alternatives for filtering freshwater tanks to HOB and canister filters? I was thinking of building myself a sump but I haven't decided definitely yet.

I find my Fluval filters are pretty good but they are a bit too powerful if anything. I have come to the conclusion that they actually push a lot of the waste straight through the filter.

I've posted in the Cichlid forum as it obviously depends on what type of fish you keep as to what the best filtration method is.

Any advice and experiences are welcomed...

[Rbishop]

I use 3 Mag 350's on the 125 gal tanks. Two with carbon, one with ceramics. Full RUGF with four medium sized power heads. 50% water changes twice a week. Diatom, 3 hours, every other week.

[twig]

Just change your media ...

I added a layer of pre-filter into my fluval and it made the world of difference ...

Personally I think your filtration is excellent. If you want to add more then add a water polisher and powerhead *shrug*

[Star_Rider]

I have 75 with a wet/dry sump and powerheads to increase circulation.

the wet/dry is a great biofilter but a pain to clean. tho I did find that when a python is fitted with the proper hose you can get under the bioballs in the sump.

I wish I had installed the rfug in this tank.. :thud: