whitch is better: undergravel filters or power filters?

[fishcatch22]

Wet-drys, canisters, powerfilters, fluidised-beds...UGFs fall behind all these, but do have their uses (and work far better when powered with a pair of powerheads rather than an airpump), although I prefer large spongefilters (like ATI Aquasponges) for fry/plant tanks.

P.S. I know
that wet/dry filters and trickle filters are better than UGFs and power filters. I just chose them because they are the two most common filter types, and I personally think they're both equally good.

 

[Toirtis]

I would argue that UGFs are far from common these days...you actually have to look for them, whereas canisters and powerfilters (HOB) are everywhere.

 

[fishcatch22]

I would argue that UGFs are far from common these days...you actually have to look for them, whereas canisters and powerfilters (HOB) are everywhere.

really? I saw one at a grocery store!!

 

[Caincando1]

I used RFUG in my 55's. One I ran powerheads with sponges and a HOB. The other I ran a magnum canister with the outlet plumbed in to the UG plates. IMO you just cant beat UG for cheap bio filtration.

 

[myfishandi]

this is really a popular opinion poll. tell me which do you think is better, power filters or undergravel filters?

2 HOB's on my 30G and weekly 20-30% WC doing a good vacuuming.

 

[cajinfry]

So to reverse my UGF what do I need?

 

[cichlidkeeper91]

but what if you have a power filter on the undergravel filter. Thats what I am doing.

 

[Rbishop]

I most assuredly agree that UGF and RUGF are superior to all others, with combos of power/cannisters. Depends upon your needs. You do not have to break down the tank to clean UGF.

 

[tonytheboss1]

There was a time when UGF's were the 'standard' for biofiltration but w/ todays advancements in filtration technology most canisters & some HOB's can supply more than enough 'bio' to make UGF's obsolete. That's not to say that having one is a 'bad' thing but for efficiency & ease of maintainance I'll run my A/C110 w/ dual sponges or pack a 'can' full of 'bioballs' or 'noodles' in a N.Y. minute!! JMO

 

[Needeles]

The one thing a UGF or RFUG lacks is the ability to create current. There is water movement, but it is very gentle.
Dave

If you want more water movement all that is needed is a stronger powerhead(s). The current would be noticed then. I have a slight current and it can be seen as my plant leaves sway alittle from the RUGF. It all depends on the GPH that the Powerhead can pump through.