newee ques.

[rly]

Hi all have been watching reading for a littlewhile and r going to get back in yhe hobby
I have been away for sev. years and r going to start a 55gal. with probably main focus around angels
I am curius about sug. on hob filters heaters,etc. r all major brands ok or are there ones to stay from any thoughts would be greatly appreciated
sorry about the none sentenced post but writing is not one of my bette suits
Thnks Ron

 

[Swimfins]

I like the aquaclear for simplicity and ease of cleaning. I have the 200, its quiet, effective, in 25 gallons, and you can buy different media packs for them. They have stronger flows, or you can add 2 x aquaclear 200 to your 55 gallon tank, I think. It gives a nice waterfall effect that is attractive when you look inside or view from the front.

 

[Copper]

As far as HOB filters go, I think it all depends on what you're after. Some have bio wheels for good bacterial cultures, are quieter than others. The motor volume may vary, but most all will give you some sort of waterfall noise as they do their job. Do you think you will need media slots or just the standard mecanical filtration?

Most will do the job fine, just think about how easily you may need access to the insides, or how easily you could change the impeller if it gets bogged up, stuff like that. I don't have a particular recommendation...I have three tanks with three different brand HOB's, and they all do thier job well.

Heaters--again most will do their job as long as you get one (or two) suited to the size of your tank. Some may be more reliable and long lasting, and in that respect, I think you get what you pay for.

Air pumps (if you use them). IMO, Rena has the best that are readily available anywhere, but they are a bit more costly than others.

 

[Nuriel]

Personally, I like the biowheel (on both my 20gal)- its fountainlike sound gets louder as the water level lowers, a perfect reminder when to do my weekly water change. On my 29gal I have a whisper 30 by tetra, it is a nice hanging box filter that uses a sponge(bio-foam) and replaceable carbon cartridges.