I'm getting ready to get a 55gl Fish tank, my fish really need it.
But my question is about using the Undergravel Filters.
I know I need 2 get 2 of them, but do I also need to get the Underwater pumps? Will these work with the regular pumps that will be on the outside. or do the Underwater pumps make it where the Outside pumps are able to grab what been filtered from the bottom. Also, was reading on the box, you should run them every 2 wks. can't they run all the time?
I hope I asked the question the right way.
Wasn't too sure how to ask.
2007-04-13 19:31:53 · 3 answers · asked by iwish40 3 in Pets ➔ Fish
I also have a 55 gallon aqaurium with freshwater platys and guppies. I have never used an undergravel filter, just the hanging filters. I find that when it comes to cleaning the aquarium (water changes), the undergravel filters can become clogged which results in the full disassembly of the tank. However I am not going to discourage you from using one, because it works differently for each person. If you do go with the under gravel then you will definetly have to get the underwater pumps. It will help circulate the water and filter out the waste.
The reason they have the stating "run every 2 weeks" is if you have a hanging filter also; however you can run them all the time. It is espcially good to run them considering the fact that if you have a large number of fish in your tank then it will cut back on cleaning time and waste from the fish.
Hope that helps.
Charity
2007-04-13 20:52:09 · answer #1 · answered by charity_j_thornhill 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
a undergravel filter should just be a type of flat plastic with holesi in it they have large holes in the corners to attach tubes that run up th e corners of your tank what you do is atatch a power head to the pipe it willl suck water frum under your gravel and push it into the upper tank , There not very good systems though spend a little more and get a external filter and use real plants they will help clean your water. get a good water filtration system from home depot that you attach to a bypass under your faucet. do a little water change every day and your tank will do great.
2007-04-13 21:02:47 · answer #2 · answered by chingow 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I have heard the undergravel filters aren't very good as well.
2007-04-14 02:43:40 · answer #3 · answered by Maria S 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋