My undergravel filter isn't doing a good job. What is the best type of filter(cost and efficiency) to switch to. And how do i switch. should i take all the fish out and let the filter run for a while? I have a 20 gal freshwater tropical fish tank with 2 mollies 1 platy and 3 glass catfish
2006-08-06 06:34:45 · 6 answers · asked by drewsifer06 2 in Pets ➔ Fish
For cost and efficiency get a Aquaclear powerfilter. They perform great and the filter media is reusable (the filter media is a sponge that can be rinsed and reused rather than a cartridge that has to be replaced periodically, which continues to save you money).
The bio-filter consists of ceramic media which never needs to be replaced, and chemical filtrations is performed by large pouch of carbon (containing a significantly greater quantity of carbon that the usual 'filter cartridges')..
Also order online. You can usually save costs no matter which filter you end up getting. They usually end up being less expensive than at the pet shop, even when you consider shipping and handling costs.
Run the new filter and the old one simultaneously for about a month, then take out the old one.
Finally, it always helps to provide over-filtration. You have a 20gal tank. Get a filter that is designed for a 50gal tank.
2006-08-06 23:53:05 · answer #1 · answered by Kay B 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Get one that hangs out the side of the tank. They are the best. Top Fin is the one I use.
All you have to do is rinse the charcoal in the white, foamy, filter thingie so there is no more black dust coming off of it, then set the whole thing up and let her rip. No need to take the fish out or let it run or anything. It's good to go from the first.
Good Luck
2006-08-06 13:59:25 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have a 30 gal tank and I am running two medium size whisper filters in mine with a 20 gal you should be able to get by with one just leave the under gravel filter in and add the whisper you can get one at wal mart forl ike 20 bucks
2006-08-06 13:39:43 · answer #3 · answered by charlenenc26 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i would recomend the aquaclear as a very efficient low cost hang on tank filter or the penguin bio-wheel they are both very low cost and simple to operate and do a very good job of polishing the water
2006-08-07 09:50:04 · answer #4 · answered by reefer132 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I like the whisper brand .. the kind you assemble yourself is cheaper. you don't have to take the fish out.
2006-08-06 18:52:05 · answer #5 · answered by ♪ ♫ ☮ NYbron ☮ ♪ ♫ 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
srry i dont know i only have regular ones
2006-08-09 20:03:31 · answer #6 · answered by Becca G 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋