How to set up a sponge filter?

[Rebgen]

Yes, I know this is probably a really dumb question. I decided to set up a QT/fry grow-out tank for my expectant Sunburst platy and Silver Molly. I would like to get this done as inexpensively as possible.

I'm going to use a 56qt. clear tupperware storage bin which will reside in my basement utility room. I'll probably look for a cheap 50wt submersible heater. Based on what I've read from my searches, it looks as if a sponge filter would be just the ticket.

Here's the dumb part...I have no clue as to how these things are set up. I looked at some sponge filter options online at Big Al's and found some between $6 - $10. What else do I need to get one of these going? I've read references to air pumps and power heads also. Which one (or both?) do I need?

Thanks in advance for the help!

 

[Kasakato]

Sponge filters are very easy to use. Most are already put together and all you have to do is attach a air line. I have never used one with a power head so I cant help you there. If you are going to use air pump use a Rena 50 or 100 with a check valve. Also why not use a 10 or 15gal tank as it might be eaiser to set up. For you heater I would say get a Tronic or Ebo-Jagar because they are the best you can get.

 

[blitzen25bm]

i use rio pumps with a big aquaclear sponge

 

[Jason01]

The one that I have in my cichlid tank is powered by an air pump. I thought that it would be like a UGF, and if the water lever gets below the output, that it would stop running. I have had the waterline ~ 3" below the output(when doing water changes), and it kept a steady flow of water coming out of it. They are a very nice filter, as far as flexibility(switching tanks), and ease of installation, as well as bio-filter potential!

 

[Rebgen]

Hey thanks for all the great feedback! I thought the sponge filters had aquarium water entering the sponge and into/up the verticle tube via a power head (suction). If I understand you correctly, an air pump instead forces air via tubing into the vertical tube and air travels out into the aquarium water from within the sponge. The 02 contact with nitrifying bacteria present in the sponge provide the biological filtration...but no mechanical filtration.

Does that sound like I've got it through my thick skull....lol?

I had another thought after my first post. After I add up the cost of the air pump/tubing/sponge filter, I could have a Penguin 100B (small power filter with a small bio-wheel) for $12.99. Do you think anything is wrong with that idea? Let me know what you think...you've been very helpful so far - much appreciated!

Finally...kasakato, I just might take you up on your advice regarding getting the 10 gal instead. I just thought I'd try to save a few dollars by using something I already have, but PetsMart has 10 gal. tanks for under $8, so I'm not really saving much after all.

Any more feedback would be welcome....thanks again.

 

[Harlock]

Actually, it works on an airlift system. All that air bubbling upward pulls water in behind it, so it still sucks. And so it does still provide mechanical as well as bio filtration. I would go with a small air pump, rena are popular because they are quiet. Since it's in your basement where presumably noise is a non-issue and you are looking at price, I say get something cheaper than a Rena. If you scroll down a bit I started a thread (because I am in the same boat!) asking for small air pump recommendations and I think I'll go with a Hagen, based on a good report from Raskolinkov and their cheap price.

As for using a power filter, I considered that, but I fear the suction may be too strong. I can just picture little dead fry stuck to a prefilter sponge in my mind... Plus, since I am definitely using mine as a QT tank, I wanted the ease of tossing the sponge when I was done treating something nasty and just bleaching the parts, then rinsing in water with heavy dechlorinator. That way, there is no cross contamination. I have two Penguin 125s and there are so many nooks and crannies, I just was a little leary of using them again and again for potentially dangerous parasites or diseases. Hope that helps, and good luck! Oh, FWIW, I am just gonna pick up a 10 gallon tank and a cheap hood and light with some clay pots for hiding places and plastic plants for cover. All stuff I can bleach easy.

EDIT: Oh, and I was intending on having an extra sponge in my 29 gallon tank at all times to keep it seeded.

 

[Rebgen]

Thanks again for all the help. Your advice/experience is very helpful. I didn't even consider the disinfection aspect of a filter choice. I was primarily anticipating using it for a fry grow out tank, but sooner or later I'll probably need a hospital tank too. Thanks again.