I need a new tank and filteration. HELP!

[daisyduketuf]

I have an OLD 55 gal tank that needs to be replaced before its contents winds up in the floor. I have a couple of questions that need answered first though. First, I would like another 55 gal., but I do not know if I should get another glass one or plexiglass. Second, I would really like a good filtering system. Right now I have a HOT Magnum canister filter and a dual Emperor Bio-Wheel. Both of these are loud and I want something that does not need as much upkeep as these do. I also want better filteration in general and would rather not have filters that hand over the side. I prefer not to go over $150.00 for the filtering system. Also, I have been looking at the combo tanks that have the filtering system in them at Petsmart. THey are very expensive (to Me), are they worth the money or should I buy the tank and filtering system seperately?
The only fish I have in the tank at this time are 2 red rainbows, 1-turquoise rainbow and a synodontis alberti catfish. I have had them for about 4 years but I would like to add a few more fish later. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Thank You in advance,
Trina Glenn

 

[NDferro]

New Tank

Whats wroung with your 55 as long as the glass is still good and fram still square just recalk it

 

[daisyduketuf]

It's about 12 years old and the caulking is coming off. I broke the middle brace a few years back and used JB weld to hold it together. I think it has done its time. Besides, I'm not sure I trust myself to replace the silicone. I can't clean the corners anymore for fear of it springing a leak.

 

[UncaBret]

What I would do in your situation is buy a new tank for the fish, buy two AquaClear 30s for filters, put in lots of plants, and use the old tank for lizards or some such.

But, thats just me.

 

[YuccaPatrol]

I'd do the same as UncaBret but I would get two AquaClear 110's (or 70's) since I am a big fan of "over-filtration". Having two extra large filters will seriously decrease the amount of maintenance needed since there is so much more filter media that it will take longer for them to need cleaning.

You can always set the flow rate very low. For instance, the 110 flows 500 gallons per hour, but at lowest rate flows only 166 gph.

You'd only spend about $80 on these if you ordered them online.

But since you don't want filters hanging on the back, I'd get an Eheim model 2026 canister filter. I don't have personal experience with canisters (yet), but I've read lots and will buy one of these for my next large aquarium.

 

[jason2894]

i myself would go with 2 AC 70's and maybe a fluval 204 or a 304 that would run u about 150 bucks from bigal's. u can never have to much filtration i currently have a 55 with an AC110 and a penguin 350 biowheel. works good for me.

 

[jason2894]

actually i just researched it for ya 2 AC 70's and a fluval 304 from bigal's w/ shipping is 128.97....actually shipping id free on an order over 50 bucks so there ya go... that is more than enuff filtration for a 55 gallon tank. i hope this helps... i know u dont particularly care for HOB filters but the aqua clears are very quiet i dont even know mine are running.

 

[YuccaPatrol]

Great Work Jason, but let's finish spending his $150. For another $22, He could have two AC-110's for $151! :

Ok, so we went $1 over his budget. . . .

 

[Hound]

Taking in consideration you don't want a HoB filter I'd go with a Fluval 404 or Rena XP-3. I have a Fluval 404 on my 50g and it does fine by itself, but I still have a HoB filter with media baskets on standby.

 

[daisyduketuf]

Thank you for the help everone. I'm going fish tank and filter shopping today and I'll use the information that you all gave me to make my decisions. I'm still wondering if I should go with glass or not though. One more thing, what websites should I go to to order the filtering system? BTW, I will be teaching a fourth or fifth grade class next year and I will be using the old 55 for some type of critter.
Thanks again,
Trina