Choosing The Correct Filter for An Aquarium

Choosing An Aquarium filter and more so the Correct Filter  for your aquarium can indeed be overwhelming due to the variety of options and differing opinions. It’s important to consider your specific aquarium setup, including tank size, inhabitants, and filtration needs. Research different filter types such as sponge filters, hang-on-back filters, canister filters, and internal filters. Understand their pros and cons, filtration capabilities, and maintenance requirements.

Choosing the perfect filter for an aquarium

Choosing the correct filter for an aquarium can indeed be challenging, especially with the multitude of opinions from various aquarists claiming their method is the best. It’s important to note that these opinions are often subjective and based on personal preference rather than extensive experience with different filter types. While some aquarists may have had success with a particular filter, it doesn’t necessarily mean it will work equally well for everyone. It’s advisable to approach these opinions with a grain of salt and instead focus on gathering information about the various filter types, their features, and their suitability for your specific aquarium setup. Taking into account factors such as tank size, livestock, and maintenance requirements will help you make an informed decision and choose the most appropriate filter for your aquarium.

In the UK, some of the common types of filters used in aquariums include :

1. Undergravel Filter: This type of filter is placed beneath the gravel substrate and uses a system of uplift tubes to draw water through the gravel, promoting biological filtration. It is a simple and cost-effective option.
2. Sponge Filter: Sponge filters are powered by an air pump and utilize a sponge as the filtration media. They provide mechanical and biological filtration and are popular for their gentle water flow, making them suitable for small or delicate fish.
3. Trickle Filter: Also known as a wet/dry filter, a trickle filter uses a chamber filled with bio-media where water is trickled over it. This promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria and provides excellent biological filtration. They are commonly used in larger aquarium setups.
4. Internal Power Filter: Internal power filters are submersible units that provide mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration. They are compact, easy to install, and suitable for small to medium-sized aquariums.
5. External Power Filter: External power filters are positioned outside the aquarium and are connected via tubing. They offer efficient mechanical and biological filtration and provide flexibility in media selection. They are often used in larger aquariums or when a higher flow rate is required.
6. Sump Filter: A sump filter is a separate tank or compartment that is connected to the main aquarium. It offers ample space for various filtration components, such as mechanical, chemical, and biological media, as well as additional equipment like heaters and protein skimmers. Sump filters are commonly used in larger or more advanced aquarium setups.

These are just a few of the main types of filters used in the UK, and each has its advantages and suitability for different aquarium sizes and requirements. We shall look at them one at a time.

Undergravel Aquarium filters:

Undergravel filters have been used in the past for their effectiveness in ammonia and nitrite metabolism. However, in our opinion, they are considered outdated due to certain drawbacks. One drawback is the regular cleaning required as these filters tend to pull down debris and waste, leading to gravel and media clogging issues. Another drawback is their unsuitability for planted aquariums, especially for plants with root systems. The bacterial colonization on the roots can cause problems for the plants, affecting their growth and overall health.

Disadvantages of Undergravel filters:

1. Limited Filtration: Undergravel filters primarily provide mechanical and biological filtration, but they lack effective chemical filtration capabilities. This means they may not effectively remove certain impurities, toxins, or medications from the water.
2. Debris Accumulation: As water is pulled through the gravel bed, debris and waste can accumulate, leading to clogging. Regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to prevent reduced water flow and potential water quality issues.
3. Inadequate for Planted Aquariums: Undergravel filters are not suitable for aquariums with live plants that have root systems. The filter plates and gravel can hinder root growth and nutrient uptake, resulting in poor plant health and growth.
4. Oxygenation Concerns: Undergravel filters may not provide sufficient water oxygenation, especially in heavily stocked aquariums or those with oxygen-demanding species. This can impact the well-being of the fish and other aquatic inhabitants.
5. Challenging Substrate Maintenance: When cleaning or rearranging the substrate, Undergravel filters can be cumbersome to work with. The filter plates and gravel need to be carefully handled to avoid disrupting the biological filtration and causing cloudiness in the water.
6. Water Clarity: Not so good at polishing the water as they have no abilly to remover the finesst of particles

Advantages of Undergravel filters:

Undergravel filters, although not as commonly used today, do have a few advantages that some aquarists may appreciate:

1. Cost-Effective: Undergravel filters are generally more affordable compared to some other types of filters. They offer a budget-friendly filtration option for those who may be starting out or have a limited budget for aquarium equipment.
2. Biological Filtration: Undergravel filters can provide effective biological filtration by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gravel bed. These bacteria help break down ammonia and nitrite, contributing to the overall stability of the aquarium’s water parameters.
3. Simple Design: Undergravel filters have a straightforward design and are relatively easy to set up. They consist of a perforated plate or grid placed at the bottom of the aquarium, covered with a layer of gravel or substrate. This simplicity can be appealing to hobbyists who prefer a minimalist approach.
4. Gentle Water Flow: The water flow created by undergravel filters is generally gentle, which can be beneficial for certain fish species that prefer calmer water conditions. It can also help distribute heat evenly throughout the aquarium.

It’s important to note that while undergravel filters may have some advantages, they are not suitable for all aquarium setups and may not provide the same level of filtration as more advanced filter types. It’s essential to consider the specific needs of your aquarium and the requirements of your aquatic inhabitants before deciding on the most appropriate filter system.

The popularity of undergravel filters with some fish keepers in our opinion is primarily price, they are cheap! “However, you do get what you pay for, if somebody is trying to recommend one of these ask them what other filters have they experience with because they of course will be the best filters they have ever used” if they have never used any others.

Aquarium Sponge Filter:

Sponge filters offer certain advantages and considerations that make them suitable for specific applications:

Advantages of Sponge Filters:

1. Gentle Filtration: Sponge filters provide gentle filtration, making them ideal for delicate fish species, fry, or shrimp tanks. The sponge material acts as a mechanical and biological filter, trapping debris and providing a surface area for beneficial bacteria to colonize.
2. Fry Protection: One of the significant benefits of sponge filters is their ability to prevent baby fish from being sucked into the filter. The porous sponge material acts as a barrier, ensuring the safety of new-born fish.
3. Cost-Effective: Sponge filters are generally inexpensive compared to other types of filters, making them a budget-friendly option for breeding setups or small tanks.

Disadvantages of Sponge Filters:

1. Aesthetic Appearance: Sponge filters may not be visually appealing in display tanks, as the sponge and air tubing can be considered unsightly by some hobbyists.
2. Maintenance and Cleaning: Sponge filters require regular maintenance to prevent clogging. The sponge should be rinsed or cleaned periodically to maintain optimal filtration performance.
3. Suction Cup Issues: Some lower-quality sponge filters may have issues with the plastic suction cups hardening over time, leading to the filter becoming loose and ineffective. It’s important to choose a reliable brand or periodically replace the suction cups to ensure proper functionality.

Ultimately, the choice to use a sponge filter depends on the specific needs of your aquarium, such as the type of fish or breeding goals. While they may not be suitable for every display tank, sponge filters serve a valuable purpose in certain applications within the aquarium hobby.

Trickle filters, also known as trickle towers or wet/dry filters, offer specific advantages and considerations in aquarium filtration:

Trickle filters Pros:

1. Efficient Biological Filtration: Trickle filters excel in providing efficient biological filtration. The design allows for a large surface area for beneficial bacteria to colonize, promoting the breakdown of harmful ammonia and nitrite into less toxic nitrate.
2. Oxygenation: The continuous flow of water and exposure to air in a trickle filter promotes high oxygen levels, benefiting the overall health and well-being of aquatic inhabitants.
3. Low Maintenance: Trickle filters generally require minimal maintenance compared to other filtration systems. The biological media needs occasional rinsing or replacement, while the mechanical filter pads or foam catch larger debris.

Trickle filters Cons:

1. Aesthetics: Implementing a trickle filter can be challenging without compromising the aesthetics of the aquarium. The filter unit typically needs to be positioned higher than the tank to allow water to trickle back, which can be visually distracting in some setups.
2. Noise: Depending on the design and water flow rate, trickle filters may generate some noise due to the water trickling or splashing. This factor should be taken into account when considering the placement of the filter.
3. Size and Space Requirements: Trickle filters are generally larger and may require additional space compared to other filter types. Proper planning and consideration of available space are essential when deciding to incorporate a trickle filter into the aquarium setup.
4. Cost: Trickle filters can be more expensive compared to some other filtration systems due to their design and complexity. However, they offer efficient biological filtration, which can contribute to a healthy and balanced aquarium environment.

Overall, trickle filters can be highly effective for aquariums when implemented correctly and matched with the specific needs of the setup. They are commonly seen in smaller aquariums with built-in hoods by manufacturers like Aqua One, where they can be seamlessly integrated and provide efficient filtration without compromising aesthetics.

Aquarium Internal Filters:

Internal power filters offer several advantages for aquarium filtration:

Internal Power Filters Pros:

1. Easy Maintenance: Internal power filters are known for their ease of maintenance. They typically have removable filter cartridges or media that can be easily replaced or cleaned, ensuring efficient filtration.
2. High Turnover and Oxygenation: These filters provide a high turnover rate, meaning they circulate a large volume of water within the aquarium. This promotes effective filtration and helps maintain optimal oxygen levels for fish and other aquatic organisms.
3. Reliability and Quiet Operation: Internal power filters are generally reliable and designed to operate quietly, minimizing disturbances in the aquarium environment.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind Internal power filters Cons:

1. Suction Cup Hardening: Some internal power filters may experience issues with the suction cups hardening over time. This can cause the filter to become loose or fail to stay in the desired position. Regular inspection and replacement of suction cups may be necessary.
2. Visibility and Bulkiness: Due to their placement inside the aquarium, internal power filters can be difficult to hide and may be visually obtrusive. Their bulky design can also take up valuable space and potentially disrupt the aesthetic appeal of the aquarium.

Despite these considerations, internal power filters remain a popular choice for their ease of maintenance, efficient filtration, and reliable performance.

Aquarium External filters:

External filters are widely regarded as the best choice for aquarium filtration due to their numerous advantages:

Take a look at Pros and Cons before Choosing An Aquarium filter.

External filters Pros:

1. Reliability and Quiet Operation: External filters are known for their reliability and quiet performance. They are designed to operate smoothly and efficiently, ensuring a stable and undisturbed environment for the aquarium inhabitants.
2. Long Service Intervals: These filters typically have longer service intervals compared to other filter types. This means less frequent maintenance and cleaning, saving you time and effort.
3. Easy Maintenance: External filters are designed for easy maintenance. They often have removable filter media or cartridges that can be accessed and cleaned without disturbing the aquarium setup.
4. Unobtrusive Design: The main body of the external filter is located outside the aquarium, with only the intake and outflow pipes extending into the tank. This allows for easy hiding or disguising of the pipes, minimizing their visual impact on the overall aesthetics of the aquarium.
5. Superb Filtration Efficiency: External filters are known for their high filtration efficiency. They provide ample space for various filter media, allowing for effective mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration.
6. Integrated Heaters: Many external filters come with integrated heaters, reducing equipment clutter in the aquarium. This integration ensures consistent water temperature and eliminates the need for a separate heater.

It’s important to note that not all external filters are created equal. Avoid cheap Chinese brands and low-quality filter media when Choosing An Aquarium filterto achieve the best results. Eheim is a well-regarded brand known for its high-quality external filters and reliable performance. Take time in Choosing the right filter as it is the beating heart of any aquarium.

In summary, external filters offer a range of benefits, including reliability, quiet operation, long service intervals, easy maintenance, unobtrusive design, and excellent filtration efficiency. Considering these advantages, they are often considered the top choice for aquarium filtration, with Eheim being recognized as a reputable brand in the industry.

While external filters have numerous advantages, it’s important to consider a few potential disadvantages:

External filters Cons:

1. Higher Initial Cost: External filters tend to have a higher upfront cost compared to some other types of filters. However, they often provide superior performance and long-term cost-effectiveness.
2. Space Requirements: External filters require additional space outside the aquarium to accommodate the filter unit. This can be a consideration if you have limited space or if the setup needs to be compact.
3. Installation Complexity: Setting up an external filter may require some technical knowledge and basic plumbing skills. It involves connecting hoses and ensuring proper sealing to prevent leaks. However, many manufacturers provide clear instructions to simplify the installation process.
4. Maintenance Accessibility: While external filters are generally easy to maintain, accessing the filter unit located outside the tank may require slightly more effort compared to filters placed inside the aquarium. However, this is typically a minor inconvenience given their longer service intervals.

Overall, the disadvantages of external filters are relatively minor and often outweighed by their numerous benefits. The higher initial cost is typically justified by their efficiency, reliability, and ease of maintenance.

Sump Filters:

Sump filters, while offering certain advantages, do come with a few notable disadvantages:

1. Water Flow: Sump filters can be inefficient in terms of water flow through the media. The open-top design allows water to take the path of least resistance, bypassing the filter media and reducing its effectiveness.
2. Reliance on Size: Sump filters compensate for their inefficiency by being larger in size. The increased volume allows for a higher capacity of filter media, which helps improve filtration to some extent.
3. Complexity and Risk of Floods: Setting up and maintaining a sump filter can be more complex compared to other filter types. Proper installation and sealing are crucial to avoid leaks or potential flooding risks.
4. Cabinet Humidity and Damage: Sump filters are typically located within the aquarium cabinet, and the open design can lead to increased humidity levels. This humidity can potentially damage cabinet components, such as hinges or other sensitive materials. Most aquarium cabinets are made from composite boards, which can be adversely affected by prolonged exposure to moisture. The high humidity generated by sump filters, which are typically located within the cabinet, can increase the risk of damage to the cabinet material. Over time, the moisture can cause swelling, warping, or delamination of the composite boards, compromising their structural integrity and overall appearance. It is important to consider the potential impact of humidity on the cabinet when using a sump filter and take measures to mitigate the moisture effects, such as ensuring proper ventilation or using moisture-resistant materials in cabinet construction.
5. Noise Potential: Due to their design and water flow dynamics, sump filters can sometimes produce noise. This can be bothersome to some aquarium enthusiasts, especially if the tank is located in a living space.
6. Appeal to Marine Keepers: Sump filters are often favoured by marine aquarium keepers due to their ability to provide additional space for equipment, such as protein skimmers, heaters, or reactors. However, their advantages for marine setups may not necessarily outweigh their disadvantages.

While sump filters have their enthusiasts, they may not be the most efficient or practical choice for all aquarium setups. Other filter types, such as external filters, often offer comparable or superior performance with fewer drawbacks. Consider your specific needs and preferences before deciding on the most suitable filtration system for your aquarium.

Let Us Help You Choose Your New Filter:

At Abyss Aquatics, we pride ourselves on providing personalized assistance and guidance to our customers. Choosing the correct filter for an aquarium is a crucial decision, and our experienced staff is here to help.

By visiting our store or reaching out to us, you’ll have the opportunity to speak with knowledgeable team members who have first-hand experience with various filter systems. They can share their expertise, tips, and insights based on their own experiences as well as the collective knowledge gained from serving thousands of satisfied customers over the years.

We understand that every aquarium setup is unique, and factors such as tank size, water parameters, and livestock requirements must be considered when selecting a filter. Our team will take the time to understand your specific needs and guide you in making an informed decision.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced aquarist, our goal is to provide you with the necessary information and support to ensure the optimal functioning of your aquarium. We believe in offering practical advice and helping you avoid common pitfalls while maximizing the success and enjoyment of your aquatic hobby.

So, don’t hesitate to get in touch or visit our store. We’re confident that our dedicated team can assist you in choosing the correct filter for your aquarium, ensuring a healthy and thriving aquatic environment.

Warm regards, The Abyss Aquatics Team