Talk to me about filters...

[Emg]

I am considering upsizing to at least a 55 gallon planted tank.....oO(DISCUS...ohhh YES..DISCUS !!! :dance: ) The only filters I have had any experience with up to this point are bio-wheel power filters, sponge filters and smaller power filters like the whisper 10.

I know nothing about canister filters...wet/dry setups...refugiums or any of the more expensive filter methods which would probably be better for a larger tank than the regular bio-wheel type.

If anyone can give me any info from personal experience on the options that are out there and what is the best/easiest maintenace filter for tanks between 55 and 100 gallons...and which brand names tend to work better or are just a better buy....I'm all ears.

I'm thinking canister filter of one type or another....?? :huh:

 

[Raskolnikov]

Actually, after trying several different filter combinations on my 55g standard, I've come to like the combination of an Aquaclear 500 with a double sponge stack and the new Penguin 350. Both of them HOB filters that are very easy to maintain, and provide enough current in the tank to eliminate dead spots as well as prevent any waste from settling on the sand.

There are, however, a near infinite amount of possibilities that would work for you.

 

[melonie]

I'm just getting a new 55 gal up and running myself. There's tons of discussion re filter alternatives in the DIY & Fresh Water Products section.

 

[cyberbeer65]

This is my filter combination below.I've been useing this combo since january,and I am very pleased.My water is crystal clear,and with my big messy Oscar thats saying alot.

 

[Aqualung]

I can't give much info in the way of comparison, but I can say that my Fluval 204 and AC 70 combo has been incredible on my 40 gallon tank. FWIW.

 

[Emg]

OOOO....Cyberbeer.....you have that wonderful pastel color scheme tank that I like so much !! Bravo !

Any chances of more pictures of that ??


Ok..back to topic...lol....

Are those the only filters you have for that 100 gallon? What do you have for media in the aquaclear ?

 

[cyberbeer65]

Here are some more pics,Emg,Enjoy.........

Their are a couple of diffrent schemes in these pics,i have all rocks/caves now.I got rid of the fake caves.
P.S.I use two sponges,floss and bio-max in the AC500

 

[Blinky]

I really like HOBs, but if you're going planted you may want to consider a canister. HOBs tend to flush out CO2, whereas with a canister you can direct the outflow (with or without a spray bar) under the surface to conserve CO2 (I find what works best is directing the spray bar horizontally right under the surface so it 'rolls' but doesn't break).
Canisters give you a huge amount of space for media and are completely hidden beneath the tank. They're generally silent, and some types are extremely easy to clean (comperable to HOBs). I also find canisters more aesthetically pleasing than using several HOBs - it's easier to hide a single intake in the corner than several intakes along the back wall of the tank.
I know you didn't ask this, just thought I'd offer my opinion - if you're going with discus, get the largest tank you can afford (if you're looking at 55-100g, go with 100g). IMHO, they'll not only look better in a larger tank, they'll stay healthier with a larger volume of water.

 

[gman52]

id go with blinky, but anything will really work. except if your using a co2 injector then u don't want any surface agigatiion. But another option is to get a HOB and keep your water level higher, so the water return don't create any surface agigation

 

[Emg]

Thanks Cyberbeer for the pics...I just LOVE that tank ! :clap:

Thanks also Blinky and Gman....the easier the better as far as I'm concerned. I will definitly go planted if I get discus...I plan on partnering them up with some of these german blue rams I can't seem to get enough of...lol...seems they would be a good mix as they both prefer the same type water parameter and temps and such.

I definitely do want to get the biggest tank I can for the discus..but if the 55 is all I can do I was going to have only 3 in there. I think 3 is the minimum I would keep together because I think they do prefer the company of thier own kind and will most likely be less shy and flighty in a group of at least that.

The canister is sounding more and more like what I would go with....maybe even a sponge filter as well in the back somewhere. I don't even want to get into the CO2 issue yet....lol...one thing at a time....!! (I'm just a simple country girl and all this info messes with my head...lol...)

So, what brands of canisters are a good deal as far as price, ease of use and general quality...