Figuring out what type of filtering system you will use for your aquarium is a very important decision. You want to have clear water, but you also want to make sure that your fish are safe, and the water is cleaned properly. There are several options as far as fish tank filters are concerned. This article will discuss the two more popular selections, canister, and power filters. Either type is a great choice, but each has its own positive and negative attributes.
Canister filters are mainly used in the larger tanks, usually tanks in the 30 to 50 gallon range. The reason for this is the high rate of filtration this type of filter provides. They do need a little more attention as far as maintenance compared to the power filters. Another consideration is placement. These filters are external, meaning placed outside of the tank. They need an area designated for their placement that is easy to access for the required cleaning and maintenance. Appropriate for both freshwater and saltwater tanks, the canister filter provides the tank with chemical, mechanical and even biological filtration in one complete system. Each brand has its own features and the prices range according to size and design.
One of the more popular types of fish tank filters is the power filter. It is the filter of choice for many home aquariums. A few reasons for the popularity of this type of filter are; they are easy to install in your tank, the maintenance is easily performed, even by a novice, and they are relatively inexpensive. They are also very efficient on tanks up to 55 gallons in size. Since they hang from the side of the tank they are easily managed and take up minimal space. The power filters generally use chemical and mechanical filtration to clean the water. Although certain brands do contain a sponge medium that will add biological filtration. As with any filter the price range is dependant on the model, size, and features. Power filters can be used with both fresh and saltwater tanks.
The filtration system is the heart of your tank. When possible, choose the larger fish tank filters recommended for the size of your tank. A filter that cannot filter the wastes from the tank will not make for a healthy environment for the fish. Comparing the needs of the aquarium with the features of a filter will guarantee that your tank gives you years of service and enjoyment.
