Should i use an under gravel pilter on my 55 gallon tank?

Answer 1

You could, but it shouldn't be your only filter. Hang-ons or canisters are a lot more efficient at removing solids, but an undergravel does a better job with biological filtration. I use both on deep tanks or ones with "messy" fish.

One tip for you if you use one - get a reversible flow powerhead to run it. This will move more water and provide better filtration. If you run the UG in the traditional manner (water is pulled down through the gravel and up the tubes) you end up with a lot of debris accumulated under the filter plate. This can block the flow from all areas, and if areas start to become anaerobic, you can get hydrogen sulfide gas building up underneath (and this is bad news for your fish). So if done in this direction, you should pull up the filter plate every few months to clean under it. I've also seen it suggested to remove the tube and use the siphon hose to clean underneath.

But with a reversible flow, water is pulled down the tube and blown up through the gravel, so this prevents most of the debris from accumulating in the first place, but still gives you the same biological filtration.

Answer 2

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RE:
Should i use an under gravel pilter on my 55 gallon tank?

Answer 3

I read an article that discussed undergravel filters. It stated that undergravel filters are not a good filter to use as an "only filter". They recommended the canister filter, or a strong outside filter that hangs on the back of the tank. The article stated that another problem with undergravel filters is what happens if you should suffer a power outage. With a hanging filter, the power can be out for some time, without terribly ill effects. According to the article, if undergravel filters suffer any sort of power outage, there is a risk of bacteria proliferating quickly and causing fish deaths. I am not certain of the validity of all of these claims, but have been told by employees of aquarium stores that undergravel filters are not all that good for your fish tank. Some people know just how to keep a tank with this type of filter. Look information up, online.

Answer 4

I use BOTH hang on the back of the tank AND undergravel
The water stays cleaner. and I dont have to deep vacuum the gravel.