How To Select The Right Fish Tank Filter

But Aren't All Fish Tank Filters The Same

Well, I hate to say it, but not all fish tank filters are created equal. It is true that some perform better than others, while there are also filters that are suited for specific conditions and perform specific tasks. They also differ according to price and how often they need to be maintained. In this article, I will expose you to the various choices of fish tank filters that you have and what you can do to select the ideal filter for your aquarium.

How Important Are Aquarium Filters?

Fish tank filters are the most important equipment for any aquarium. Along with fish tank heaters, aquarium filters form a system that ensures the living conditions in a tank is just right for healthy and vibrant fish.

Choosing the right fish tank filter for you is also a matter of personal choice. Even though different filters work differently, they all have the same basic purposes, which is to filter out debris and externals from the water which would otherwise contaminate it.

How Do Fish Tank Filters Work?

Fish tank filters generally perform one or more of the following filtration tasks: chemical, mechanical and biological.

Chemical filtration involves the removal of toxins and dissolved matter, usually through activated carbon. The porous carbon filter traps phosphates and waste in its pore. It can also remove ammonia and odor from the water. While it really isn't all that important to perform chemical filtration, it can be useful, especially in a tank meant for quarantine, to filter out the excess chemicals used for treatment.

Mechanical filtration removes large waste and sediments from the aquarium. All filters perform this basic but significant function.

Biological filtration is a very significant filtration task. Biological filters utilize a colony of beneficial bacteria to filter out toxins and decay from the tank. If you wish to have healthy and thriving fish, then biological filtration is an absolute must.

Different Types Of Fish Tank Filters

The main filtration function performed by almost all aquarium filters are biological and mechanical. The more expensive ones add on chemical filtration as well. Your choice of aquarium filters to use should depend on the size of the tank, the quantity of fish, how sensitive the fish are, the budget you are willing to spend on the filter and finally, how much time you are willing to set aside to clean it. Here is a general look at the various types of fish tank filters being sold today:

Box Filters: Also known as Corner Filters, this is usually a clear box that contains filter floss and other media. Air is push through an air stone that in turn pumps water into the filter, through the floss and filter media which performs mechanical filtration. Over time, there will be a build up of material colony providing biological filtration. Box filters are inexpensive, but you should only consider them for small tanks, as they are generally not that efficient. Most fish enthusiasts today also do not favor them because the box which is placed inside the tank tends does not compliment the decoration. They require weekly cleaning but are easily to clean.

Under gravel Filters: A layer of gravel sits on top of a plastic platform. By utilizing a pump, water is suck from under the gravel, forcing it to flow through the gravel which performs mechanical and eventually biological filtration . Under gravel filters usually comes together with a beginners tank that you buy in a complete set. During the weekly cleaning session, you would have to vacuum the layer of sediments that will accumulate just above the gravel.

Sponge Filters: These fairly efficient filters are typically used as a secondary filter attached to a main filter to further increase the filtration process. Sponge filters are cheap, but the maintenance can be a bit messy because you'd need to remove the sponge from the tank and clean it before replacing it back again.

Power Filters: Most fish enthusiasts use this type of filter. They are very efficient and provides a complete filtration process. Some reasons why they are so famous is because of the mid-range price, efficient filtering and simple maintenance. Just right for a mid-size tank.

Canister Filters: Meant mainly for larger thanks that need a powerful winter. Though they are expensive, they do perform the best filtration process than any other filters. They require very little maintenance, usually just a couple of times in a year. Furthermore, the filter is totally out of the water, so maintenance does not involve the water in the tank at all.

In Conclusion…. 

Think carefully about the fish tank filter that you wish to purchase because it should be an investment that is supposed to last you for many years. Selecting the right aquarium filter for you will ensure not only healthy and vibrant fish, but a hobby that will be totally satisfying.