Thứ Bảy, 18 tháng 1, 2020

7 Best Canister Filters – The Complete/Ultimate Comparison [2020 Update]

fish-healthy-with-effective-filtration

Everyone knows great filtration is a must for healthy fish and beautiful tanks. Anyone who has looked into the aquarium filter market also knows how many choices, options, and possibilities are available.

We’re here to help reinforce your choice of a canister filter for your tank. We’ll also show you the best aquarium canister filters available today.

Let’s get started by looking at the main considerations for
shoppers.

A/ Things to Consider When Choosing a Canister Filter

All canister filters have two main functions:

  • Move the correct amount of water through the filter.
  • Clean the water thoroughly using mechanical, biological, and chemical methods.

These are the main ideas to keep in mind when you are searching for the best filter.

  • Considering your tank setup, you should choose a filter that moves enough water.
  • Then you should consider the quality of filtration being provided within the canister filter.

To help you, we’re going to explore these two features in depth. Then we’ll show you a quick comparison table. Afterwards, you’ll have everything you need to know in order to make a brilliant choice for your next filter.

#1 - Tank Capacity and Filter Flow Rate

The first, and most important, thing to consider when choosing any filter for any tank is the filtration flow rate requirement.

You should already know your tank’s size in gallons (or liters). Every filter comes with a manufacturer’s specifications. The spec will tell you how many gallons of water the filter will pump per hour. Seems simple, right?

The Research

Yes and no. To be clear, there is
no direct evidence requiring a certain amount of filtration. You can see this article
from the International Journal of Recirculating Aquaculture for a lot more
detail. Their conclusion is a water exchange once per hour is probably enough
for fish health.

On the other hand, hobby fish tanks are different systems than large fish farm systems. A beginner’s guide recommends 3-5 water exchanges per hour. This means your filter should pump at least three times the amount of water in your tank every hour.

Thus, if you have a 25-gallon tank,
then your filter should move at least 75 gallons per hour. It would be better
to move 125 gallons per hour.

The Goal

You should aim for a sweet spot
between too much water movement and too little filtration. Here’s why:

  • If your filter is moving too much water, then you can harm your fish, shrimp, and plants. The increased flow rate may require fish to swim actively too often. Increased exercise may stress the fish and lead to health problems. Plants may have tissue damage from being moved in the current too forcibly. This is especially true of stem plants with large leaves.
  • If your filter is not moving enough water, then you can have different problems. Your tank is – probably – rectangular. If your filter isn’t moving enough water, then the corners of your tank can become breeding grounds for ammonia-producing bacteria. A low flow rate may also be ineffective at sweeping organic matter into the filter where you can remove it.

If you can hit this sweet spot,
then your fish and plants will thank you.

#2 - Filtration System

Every filter is designed with a filtration pathway for your
water. The water enters the filter through the hose and passes through several
sets of filter media. These can include sponges, filter floss, activated
charcoal, UV sterilizers, and water polishing pads.

Choose a filter that can be set up to match your needs. All
our filter choices can be customized to some extent. Here are a couple of
examples of choices you can make:

  • Extra dirty fish, such as a goldfish or predatory fish, will produce more solid waste. A filter with extra space for mechanical media (sponges and floss) will help keep this tank clean.
  • A tank without plants may produce more algae because of lower competition for nutrients. A UV sterilizer can help to combat sudden algae blooms.

Plan your filter setup to maximize the filter’s efficiency
for your tank. You will be rewarded with clear water and happy fish.

#3 - Other Helpful Features

The features we’ve just mentioned are standard for all canister filters. Clever engineering and planning have created few extra features. These are found on some models and not others.

Let's take a look and see which one you like best.

Self-Priming Function

Canister filters do not sit inside the tank. This means they
are not installed with water inside the filter. The pump must be primed with
water to begin operation, so it does not run dry and burn itself up.

Some canister filters offer a self-priming or an
easy-priming function. A button or small slide accomplishes this task. We
recommend you choose a filter with this self-priming function to make setup and
maintenance much easier.

Adjustable Flow Rate

Adjusting the flow rate of your filter is useful for at
least two different reasons:

  1. Reducing the flow during feeding times may help
    food remain on the surface or in the correct place in the water column. It may
    also help your fish catch their food if they are slow, such as ornamental
    goldfish.
  2. Your filter may move too much water. Turning
    down the flow rate can help you customize your filter to your tank.

UV Light

A UV light works by sterilizing the water as it passes in
front of the UV bulb. This should kill bacteria and other micro-organisms.

Some canister filters have UV sterilizers built into them.
The UV sterilizers are placed in the filtration process after the water has
circulated past the other filters.

While this may seem an optional extra to some people, it
will result in a cleaner tank and may help combat algae blooms or bacteria
spikes.

Spray Bars

The water being returned to your tank will be moving at a
high velocity. Spray bars, or spreader bars, split this water into multiple
smaller streams. This reduces the force of water movement in your tank.

Depending on your fish and plants, the return from your filter may be too strong. If this is true, then you will need a spray bar.

If your chosen filter doesn’t come with its own bar, then plan to buy one before you install the filter.

#4 - Additional Considerations

All the above features make canister filters a great choice
for larger tanks. We should point out a few more things to help you make a wise
choice.

Customer Reviews

In the world of eBay, Amazon, and Shopify, customer reviews
are taking on more and more significance. As you do your research, you can look
for common issues mentioned in reviews.

Some filters may not be a good match for every tank setup,
though. You should read reviews but not necessarily heed everything someone
else has said on the internet.

Warranty

Everyone hates returning stuff. What everyone hates more is when something breaks just after the warranty has expired.

Help your future self by looking for products with a long warranty period. This usually means the manufacturer stands behind their product’s build quality.

Price

The only way to compare prices is to look at the main feature of filters. There is a large price difference between the less expensive models and the most expensive models.

Some brands can sell for two or three times the price of others. With identical features and functions, you must make your own value choice.

B/ The Seven Best Aquarium Canister Filters

Now we’re going to show you our choices for the seven best canister filters on the market today. We’ll begin with a handy comparison table.

After that, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each unit. Once we’re done, we’ll tell you which we think is best.

[INSERT TABLE HERE]

#1 - Penn-Plax Aquarium Cascade

Penn-Plax has been producing pet
supplies for more than 60 years. What began as a pet shop in Brooklyn has
become a global supplier of equipment for all kinds of pets. The Penn-Plax
aquarium range has some very good filters, decorations, and equipment you
should consider.

penn-plax-aquarium-cascade-canister-filter

[su_button url="https://www.amazon.com/Cascade-CCF3UL-Canister-Filter-Gallon/dp/B0002DJ9NY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=ap250e-20&linkId=29ef8153d7eb3bfb539f61ac4c03c1ae&language=en_US" target="blank" style="flat" background="#ef352d" size="7" center="yes" radius="5" icon="icon: hand-o-right" icon_color="#ffffff" text_shadow="0px 0px 0px #000000" rel="nofollow"]Check the price on Amazon.com[/su_button]

Specifically, the Penn-Plax Cascade
1000 is a great value filter for aquariums up to 100 gallons. This compact unit
moves up to 265 gallons of water per hour through its three media baskets. It
will pump 100 gallons of water in about 23 minutes. Your water should be
sparkling clean and fresh.

The valves on the Cascade are a real advantage. Each one rotates through 360°. You should be able to set this filter up in even the tightest aquarium cabinets because the tubes can be turned in any direction to suit the space. In addition to their rotation, the valves are also engineered with shut-off controls which also serve as flow adjusters.

The media baskets are large enough
to accommodate any type of filter media. Customizing your filtration to meet
your tank’s needs is easy to accomplish. Filter media is shipped with the
filter but may need to be replaced with something suitable for your tank.

All these advantages come at a very
low price. Four other filters cost more than this sleek beauty.

There are some disadvantages you
can think through. The media baskets are not always the easiest to install. The
filter media included with the filter is also a bit limited. You may want to
add better media to the filter yourself. Also, there is a 3-year warranty
available. However, customer service in countries other than America can be
limited to dealing with the retailer.

Pros:

[su_list icon="icon: check" icon_color="#3ef323"]

  • Great price
  • Easy setup and maintenance
  • Useful, high-quality valves
  • Priming button works well

[/su_list]

Cons:

[su_list icon="icon: remove" icon_color="#FF4500"]

  • Limited customer service outside the USA
  • Filter media is limited

[/su_list]

[su_button url="https://www.amazon.com/Cascade-CCF3UL-Canister-Filter-Gallon/dp/B0002DJ9NY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=ap250e-20&linkId=29ef8153d7eb3bfb539f61ac4c03c1ae&language=en_US" target="blank" style="flat" background="#ef352d" size="7" center="yes" radius="5" icon="icon: hand-o-right" icon_color="#ffffff" text_shadow="0px 0px 0px #000000" rel="nofollow"]Check the price on Amazon.com[/su_button]

#2 - Fluval External Filter

Fluval
is another top brand in the hobby aquarium market. Their filters and
accessories are sold all over the world and trusted by hundreds of thousands of
happy customers. Fluval’s products are renowned for their reliability and high
build quality.

fluval-external-filter

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Fluval’s
series of canister filters ranges from the 106 to the 406. The 106 pumps 145
gallons per hour while the 406 moves 383 gallons per hour.

For a 100-gallon tank, the 406 would be ideal. It can pump 100 gallons of water in only 15 minutes. This high level of filtration is essential for clear, fresh water and will lead to healthier fish.

Inside the filter, Fluval has engineered its new series to use better motors and impellers. They estimate their motor’s performance has increased its flow rate and head pressure. The impeller is also between 8-16% quieter than previous generations. They have re-engineered the impeller cover to increase its durability.

Maintaining the filter is easier than ever due to several new advances.

  • First, the patented Aqua-Stop valves make disconnecting the hoses less troublesome and leaks less likely.
  • Second, the lift-lock clamps operate with a single motion to make access easier as well as a more secure seal. Hose lock nuts increase the security and sealing even more.

The filtration pathway has been designed to keep the water inside the filter for as long as possible. Water moves through several filter media baskets before being pushed back into the tank. Many users describe their Fluval filters in glowing terms and report brilliant water quality after using them.

The big downside to the Fluval filter is its price. It is tied for the most expensive filter on our list. The price does come with a 3-year warranty, though.

Pros:

[su_list icon="icon: check" icon_color="#3ef323"]

  • Very high filtration rate
  • Superb build quality
  • Excellent design of water path through filter
  • Good clamping system

[/su_list]

Cons:

[su_list icon="icon: close" icon_color="#FF4500"]

  • High price

[/su_list]

[su_button url="https://www.amazon.com/Fluval-A212-306-External-Filter/dp/B005QRDDWY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1525267304&sr=1-7&refinements=p_36:4000-99999999&linkCode=ll1&tag=ap250e-20&linkId=ed09e2b4ac7372b1df05b8ef695f4444&language=en_US" target="blank" style="flat" background="#ef352d" size="7" center="yes" radius="5" icon="icon: hand-o-right" icon_color="#ffffff" text_shadow="0px 0px 0px #000000" rel="nofollow"]Check the price on Amazon.com[/su_button]

#3 - EHEIM Classic External Canister Filter

German machining is praised around the world for its accuracy and quality. This filter from EHEIM is no exception to this rule. The build quality is very good, and the design is intelligent and thoughtful.

The filter we suggest, for this review, is the EHEIM Classic 350. The 350 is designed for tanks up to 100 gallons. Smaller versions are available for smaller tanks.

eheim-classic-external-canister-filter-with-media

[su_button url="https://www.amazon.com/Fluval-A212-306-External-Filter/dp/B005QRDDWY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1525267304&sr=1-7&refinements=p_36:4000-99999999&linkCode=ll1&tag=ap250e-20&linkId=ed09e2b4ac7372b1df05b8ef695f4444&language=en_US" target="blank" style="flat" background="#ef352d" size="7" center="yes" radius="5" icon="icon: hand-o-right" icon_color="#ffffff" text_shadow="0px 0px 0px #000000" rel="nofollow"]Check the price on Amazon.com[/su_button]

EHEIM’s units come a striking green color. Filtration is achieved in a single canister of filter media rather than in separate trays. However, there is plenty of space for different kinds of filter media.

EHEIM sends its units out with all the necessary filter media. There is an activated carbon pad, as well as a coarse and fine filter sponge pad.

The
motor and impeller are the latest in a long line of great products from EHEIM.
The design tolerances are very good, and users report quiet running for months.

However,
there are some things you might want to consider. First, and most importantly,
the flow rate is much lower than competitors. The advertised flow rate is only
136 gallons per hour. This is less than half the specified rate of the Fluval
canister filter. Second, the price is high for such a small flow rate.

Pros:

[su_list icon="icon: check" icon_color="#3ef323"]

  • Lots of filter media included
  • Good color of unit
  • Great build quality
  • Very quiet operation

[/su_list]

Cons:

[su_list icon="icon: remove" icon_color="#FF4500"]

  • No self-priming function
  • Very short warranty

[/su_list]

[su_button url="https://www.amazon.com/Fluval-A212-306-External-Filter/dp/B005QRDDWY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1525267304&sr=1-7&refinements=p_36:4000-99999999&linkCode=ll1&tag=ap250e-20&linkId=ed09e2b4ac7372b1df05b8ef695f4444&language=en_US" target="blank" style="flat" background="#ef352d" size="7" center="yes" radius="5" icon="icon: hand-o-right" icon_color="#ffffff" text_shadow="0px 0px 0px #000000" rel="nofollow"]Check the price on Amazon.com[/su_button]

#4 - Aquatop CF Series Canister Filter

Aquatop’s CF Series is the first filter in our list with a big change in capability. This little beauty comes equipped with a UV Filter for extra cleaning power.

aquatop-cf-series-canister-filter

[su_button url="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004GIXCI4/ref=as_li_ss_tl?&linkCode=ll1&tag=ap250e-20&linkId=bb680e32be6c2827015c292909d2cde1&language=en_US" target="blank" style="flat" background="#ef352d" size="7" center="yes" radius="5" icon="icon: hand-o-right" icon_color="#ffffff" text_shadow="0px 0px 0px #000000" rel="nofollow"]Check the price on Amazon.com[/su_button]

UV sterilizers work for your aquarium by sterilizing the water after it has passed through the other filter stages. The light wavelengths emitted by UV lights kill microorganisms such as bacteria and algae. Given enough time, they will even kill larger little beasties such as protozoa.

Apart from the UV sterilizer, this
canister filter is built well. The pump has a self-priming feature. This means
you don’t need to siphon water down to the filter before using it.

There are three stages of
filtration prior to the UV sterilizer. These are coarse and fine sponges, and
then a space for biological filtration of your choice.

The CF series of filters allows for
different tank sizes. The smallest filter moves 264 gallons per hour while the
largest, the CF500, moves up to 525 gallons per hour. In the middle is the
CF400, which moves 370 gallons per hour. For a 100-gallon tank, the CF400 is
the best choice.

Knowing the correct size reveals
one of the disadvantages of this filter – its price. It’s 50% more expensive
than other filters such as the Penn-Plax Cascade. The Aquatop also has the
lowest customer review score on Amazon at the present time. While every filter
doesn’t work for every person or tank, the high number of low reviews might be
enough to make you look elsewhere.

Pros:

[su_list icon="icon: check" icon_color="#3ef323"]

  • UV sterilizer included
  • Self-priming pump
  • Good filtration design

[/su_list]

Cons:

[su_list icon="icon: remove" icon_color="#FF4500"]

  • Poor customer reviews
  • Pricier than other, similar filters

[/su_list]

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#5 - Marineland Magniflow Canister Filter

The fifth canister filter on our list comes from MarineLand. The Magniflow canister is a great entry in the budget category. It has some simple features that should make maintenance easy.

marineland-magniflow-canister-filter

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To begin with, the valves come with a very simple valve stop system. An easy lift of the red lever disconnects the valves. Water stops flowing and this helps prevent leaks from ruining your maintenance routine.

In addition to this, the whole unit seals with a simple push motion. This isn’t as complicated as the locks and levers on other units. Fewer moving parts means less opportunity for breakdowns.

A quick prime button finishes the
maintenance features with an easy way to restart the filter after it has been
cleaned and serviced.

Water passes through four
filtration stages. First is a simple mechanical stage consisting of sponges and
pads. The second and third stages are chemical and biological filtration with
activated carbon and bio balls, respectively. Finally, a water polishing pad
adds sparkle to the water before it returns to the tank.

There are a couple of reasons you
might consider a different filter. The first is the quality of the seal when
the unit is closed. Some users report micro-bubbles in their water due to an
incomplete seal. Second, the hose connections are a little prone to loosening
over time. This doesn’t lead to complete unit failure but can be a pain in the
neck to resolve.

One final note: almost all customer
reviews mention Marineland’s excellent customer service.

Pros:

[su_list icon="icon: check" icon_color="#3ef323"]

  • Great valve stop system for leak prevention
  • Four filtration stages
  • Great customer service
  • Quick priming button

[/su_list]

Cons:

[su_list icon="icon: remove" icon_color="#FF4500"]

  • Inconsistent seal could lead to micro bubbles
  • Hose connections may loosen over time

[/su_list]

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#6 - Hydor Professional External Canister Filter

Most people hide their canister filters in a cabinet. The Hydor Professional Canister Filter is an exception to this idea. Its sleek, black exterior is a great complement to many tanks and their décor. The performance is also very good. Let’s have a look at some of its good features.

hydor-professional-external-canister-filter

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To begin with, its design comes
with five filter media trays. This allows the user to customize the filtration
for their tank setup. For example, some fish are super dirty. An extra tray
dedicated to sponges will help these fish. Other trays allow for ample
biological media to be utilized.

The Hydor canister filter also
comes with a simple priming mechanism. Maintenance should be a little easier
with this feature. The hose valves also come with adjustable levers and so
shutting off the water flow during feeding or cleaning should be simple.

However, these features are
accompanied by a few problems. The first is the lack of anything truly special.
The second is its price. This filter is tied for the most expensive filter on
our list. Price isn’t the problem. Lack of performance for the price is the
issue.

The motor, impeller, and filtration
system aren’t anything innovative or unique. For the price, the Fluval filter
will probably provide superior performance.

Pros:

[su_list icon="icon: check" icon_color="#3ef323"]

  • Extra filter media trays allow great customization
  • Attractive exterior design
  • Simple, effective priming mechanism

[/su_list]

Cons:

[su_list icon="icon: remove" icon_color="#FF4500"]

  • Very expensive but not unique
  • No clear quality advantage

[/su_list]

#7 - Polar Aurora External Aquarium Filter

Our final canister filter is also one of the cheapest. The Polar Aurora filter is packaged nicely, features an attractive exterior, and has some very useful features.

polar-aurora-external-aquarium-filter

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To begin with, this is one of only two canister filters to feature a built-in UV sterilizer. The sterilizer isn’t incorporated into all models, so be sure you know what you are buying. However, the inclusion of this extra sterilization should reduce algae growth in your tank as well as reduce levels of unhelpful bacteria.

The motor and impeller work together to move around 370 gallons of water per hour. This is enough to pump 100 gallons of water every 16 minutes.

To
assist with maintenance, the hose joints swivel through 360°. A shut-off lever
helps reduce leaks. The whole unit closes with one large locking lever. All
these features should assist the regular cleaning and servicing of the unit.

Some
users report difficulty in setting up this filter. Finding and eliminating
excess air in the system can be a challenge.

However,
this filter has two great points. First is its price. Second, this filter has
the smallest percentage of negative reviews on Amazon. This means many people
have had good experiences with this unit.

Pros:

[su_list icon="icon: check" icon_color="#3ef323"]

  • UV sterilizer included in some models
  • Good flow rate for its price
  • Swivel hose joints make installation and maintenance easier
  • Good customer reviews

[/su_list]

Cons:

[su_list icon="icon: remove" icon_color="#FF4500"]

  • Eliminating air in the system can be challenging

[/su_list]

[su_button url="https://www.amazon.com/Polar-Aurora-External-Aquarium-Canister/dp/B00JYEFFEO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?keywords=canister+filter&qid=1578056794&sr=8-7&linkCode=ll1&tag=ap250e-20&linkId=99720a8b76af6469eec1372317cc84a8&language=en_US" target="blank" style="flat" background="#ef352d" size="7" center="yes" radius="5" icon="icon: hand-o-right" icon_color="#ffffff" text_shadow="0px 0px 0px #000000" rel="nofollow"]Check the price on Amazon.com[/su_button]

C/
Our Choice

Having reviewed all these units, our choice is easy: the Fluval is the best filter on the market today. Its excellent flow rate and cleverly designed filtration path give it superior performance.

The price might be a little high, but this comes with a 3-year warranty and excellent build quality. Purchasing replacement supplies is also easy in just about every major market.

Do you want to buy the Fluval canister filter?

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Honorable Mention

The Fluval series filters are great units. However, if they are outside your operating budget, then the Penn-Plax Cascade is our choice for low-cost setups. Its performance is great, and its price will not punish your bank balance.

Do you want to buy the Penn-Plax Cascade canister filter?

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What Do You Think?

These are our choices for the best aquarium canister filters
on the market. We even narrowed the field down to one clear winner. What do you
think? Please let us know about your experiences with canister filters.

Read the original article at :
7 Best Canister Filters – The Complete/Ultimate Comparison [2020 Update]

Thứ Tư, 1 tháng 1, 2020

5 Best HOB Filters – A Complete Review & Comparison Guide (in 2019)

fish-swimming-in-freshwater-aquarium

No one wants a cloudy fish tank or
sick fish. Instead, all of us fish keepers want a brilliant, sparkling tank. We
want healthy fish so we can enjoy watching them. Great filtration is one of the
most important parts of making an attractive tank that keeps your fish hale and
hearty.

In this article, we’re going to show you the basics of a good filter setup. Then we’ll give you five great choices for buying a filter for your tank. We’ve included a helpful chart to give you a side-by-side comparison of all five filters.

After we announce our top choice, we’ll answer a few of the common questions people have about Hang on Back Filters.

Buyer’s guide to Hang on Back filters

Hang on back filters are known as HOB filters or power
filters. Many people choose these instead of in-tank filters because they are
easier to maintain. They also stay out of sight behind the tank. Together, this
makes your tank more attractive and less work.

However, filters are like fish. There are dozens of
different varieties. They are described in various ways. The language can get a
bit confusing. We’re here to help you with our simple buyer’s guide.

Here are the top six
things
we think you can think about to help make the best choice.

#1: Filtration Flow Rate and
Tank Size

Flow rate is very important for tank health.

If your flow rate is too low, then waste will build up in the poorly filtered tank.

Too much filtration could lead to a fast water flow. This can harm small shrimp and placid fish, such as Bettas.

Filtration flow rate is measured in gallons per hour (or liters per hour for those outside the USA). The HOB filter which will work best for your tank will move at least four times the volume of your tank each hour.

For example, if you have a 20-gallon tank, then your filter should move at least 80 gallons of water each hour.

The manufacturer specs are always optimal or maximum. The amount of water being moved may change. Some filters are adjustable.

All filters will have reduced flow rate due to dirt and particles. So it’s better to choose a filter that moves 4-5 times the volume of your tank to be sure your filtration is good enough.

#2: Filtration quality

Filtration quality is hotly debated. Filter manufacturers
all make grand claims about their products. Some of these claims are even true!
We want to provide you with some simple guidelines for choosing the best
filter.

There are two designs of HOB filters to think about.

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  • The first is a chamber filter. These are designed to use filter media, such as sponges and filter floss, inserted into the chamber.
  • The second type is a cartridge filter. Cartridge filters are built to use the manufacturer’s cartridges.

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Which of these is better for your tank?

The primary purpose of your filter is to do a couple of things:

First, it should trap waste and debris so you can remove them. Fish poo and debris will get stuck in your filter and later removed as you clean the filter or replace its media.

Second, and more important, the filter provides a place for biological filtration.

Here is a quick review of the nitrogen cycle in your tank. Fish waste converts to ammonia. The ammonia is consumed by one type of bacteria and converted to nitrite. Another type of bacteria consumes the nitrite and converts it to nitrate. Both ammonia and nitrite are harmful to your fish at even small levels. Nitrate is also harmful, but fish can tolerate a moderate level of nitrate.

[su_note note_color="#e2e2e2"]With this in mind, we prefer chamber filters over cartridge filters for one simple reason: they provide more filter media area for bacteria and more ‘water contact time’ during the filtration process. [/su_note]

superior-contact-with-chamber-filter-type
Superior contact with chamber filter type

The Aqua Clear filter, for example, has a chamber several times thicker than cartridge filters.

#3: Extra functions

Filters are sold with many bells and whistles. Some of these
might be worth considering for your next filter.

Adjustable flow rate

Delicate fish and plants require a lower flow rate in the tank. Being able to adjust the flow can help you do what is best for your fish.

Also, if you want to breed fish, then turning down the flow rate during breeding will help achieve success.

Clogging indicator

Most filters fill up with dirt at some point. You will soon be able to tell just by looking at your tank if this has occurred.

However, some filters make this even easier. They tell you when the filter is clogged. We think anything that makes tank maintenance easier is a big bonus.

Self-priming

Filter impellers are designed to run while full of water. Self-priming filters do not require you to pre-fill them before activating the filter.

Priming a filter isn’t difficult, but why add extra work? Again, anything that makes tank maintenance easier is a big bonus.

Loudness

We all want to see our fish tanks. We don’t want to hear our tank filters. Achieving silent filtration is almost impossible due to the impeller running. However, some filters are quieter than others. This may be important to you based on where your tank is set up.

#4: Warranty

Filters don’t have too many moving parts. Many of them work for years without any problems.

However, a good warranty will help you if a problem does occur. Longer warranties are better. Also, you can look for filters with a trial period or good returns policy.

#5: Customer Ratings

As an aquarium keeper, you are part of a worldwide family of
fish lovers. Read what others say about their filters. Try to find reviews from
customers whose tanks are set up like yours. Their thoughts may help you choose
the best power filter.

#6: Price

Brand names can make a big difference to price in the
fishkeeping world. Brands such as Fluval command a premium price tag. If you
can afford it, then buy the best. We can show you how to optimize your filters
to get the best performance even if you buy a slightly less expensive choice.

Now you know what you are looking for. Let’s peek at the top five best hang on back filters. When we’re done, we’ll tell you which one we would choose.

5 Best HOB Filter Review

Before you dive into looking at
each filter in detail, please check out this helpful table. It compares the
features of each filter. You’ll find the information presented clearly and
simply to help you make a quick comparison.

Comparison table

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1. Aqua Clear - Fish Tank Filter

aqua-clear-hob-filter

The first filter on our list is the Aqua Clear series of
filters. These are numbered 20,30,50,70, and 110 to correspond to increases in
the tank size, measured in gallons, for which the filter is suitable. Aqua
Clear is a world-renowned maker of aquarium supplies. This filter will not
disappoint you!

Aqua Clear has created a filter designed to lengthen the time your water is in contact with the filter. Water is pumped through the intake and into the bottom of the filter chamber. The water then rises through a series of filter pads before falling down a waterfall into the tank. Extending the length of filtration helps remove impurities. It also lengthens the time available for bacteria to break down ammonia and nitrite.

The magnetic impeller motor is very durable. Returns due to motor failure are almost unheard of. Once set up correctly, the motor is very quiet, and the sound of the waterfall is easily heard.

Adjustable flow control makes caring for your fish simple. Aqua Clear’s flow adjustment doesn’t reduce the speed of the motor but changes the volume of water being moved. This allows for maximum filtration, even at lower water speeds.

Maintaining the filter is very easy. The lid opens to allow
easy removal of the filter basket. Replacement filters are needed as often as
once a month for the activated carbon. They can be purchased easily on Amazon.

We’d like to see a clog indicator on this filter. This might help slightly less attentive fish keepers to remember to change the filters. A self-priming function would also be a nice addition to this otherwise brilliant unit.

Apart from these minor improvements, this filter is everything you could want in a simple design.

Pros:

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  • Highest filtration quality with the largest filter media volume.
  • Adjustable flow rate
  • Can be used with other filter media
  • Suitable for tanks up to 110 gallons
  • Very high customer ratings
  • Great value for money

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Cons:

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  • Not self-priming
  • No clog indicator

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[su_button url="https://www.amazon.com/Aqua-Clear-Fish-Filter-Gallons/dp/B000260FUM/ref=as_li_ss_tl?keywords=Aqua+Clear+-+Fish+Tank+Filter&qid=1577719685&sr=8-9&linkCode=ll1&tag=ap250e-20&linkId=843eab3e2203bde2ab5e648705338ca3&language=en_US" target="blank" style="flat" background="#ef352d" size="7" center="yes" radius="5" icon="icon: hand-o-right" icon_color="#ffffff" text_shadow="0px 0px 0px #000000" rel="nofollow"]Check price on Amazon.com[/su_button]

2. Fluval C Power Filter

fluval-c-power-filter

Fluval is another widely recognized aquarium brand. Their
C-series filters have been on the market for years and have earned a great name
for themselves. They are powerful, relatively quiet, and are some of the most
durable filters available.

The main selling point is Fluval’s 5-stage filtration
system. Water passes through these stages on its way through the filter:

  • Coarse Foam Pad – The first stage removes the largest particles from the water. This is where the fish poo and other dirt is most likely to be captured.
  • Fine Foam Pad – Following the coarse pad, the finer foam snags smaller particles and breaks up micro-bubbles in the water.
  • Activated Carbon Insert – Activated carbon has a huge surface area compared to its volume. This is ideal for removing unwanted odors, discolorations, or other chemical impurities.
  • Bio-Screen – A portion of the water is diverted to pass through this bio-screen. This extra step ensures better water distribution in the final portion of the filtration process.
  • C-Nodes – The Fluval’s C-Nodes are biological filter media. These star-shaped inserts promote the growth of beneficial bacteria to process ammonia.

All these stages add up to very clear water and happy fish.

Fluval has also created a flow rate adjustment system to maximize efficiency. When the flow rate is reduced, up to 50% of the water is recirculated through the filtration chamber. This ensures the water is clean and clear even when the flow rate is reduced for breeding or feeding.

To make this filter even better, we’d like to see a self-priming feature. This would assist in maintenance. It would also be nice to see a bigger tank capacity since this is limited to tanks smaller than 70 gallons.

Still, these minor drawbacks don’t take away from the quality of this superb filter.

Pros:

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  • High build quality
  • High filtration quality with large filter media volume
  • Adjustable flow rate
  • Clog indicator

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Cons:

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  • Not self-priming
  • Expensive
  • Limited to tanks smaller than 70 gallons

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[su_button url="https://www.amazon.com/Fluval-14002A1-C3-Power-Filter/dp/B003SJQJ46/ref=as_li_ss_tl?keywords=Fluval+C+Power+Filter&qid=1577844403&sr=8-2&linkCode=ll1&tag=ap250e-20&linkId=3c3011068af5d2fb0723f29521b514ee&language=en_US" target="blank" style="flat" background="#ef352d" size="7" center="yes" radius="5" icon="icon: hand-o-right" icon_color="#ffffff" text_shadow="0px 0px 0px #000000" rel="nofollow"]Check price on Amazon.com[/su_button]

3. MarineLand Penguin 350 BIO-Wheel Power Filter

Marineland-penguin-bio-wheel-power-filter

The Penguin 350 is one of the more attractive filters on the
market. Many people are mesmerized by the sight of the spinning bio wheels.
This extra interest enhances the beauty of your fish tank.

Apart from its physical appeal, the Penguin 350 is also a
great filter. MarineLand has produced filters for more than 40 years. Their
designs are reliable and work well for many thousands of aquariums.

An intake tube pulls water from the tank into the body of the filter. Once inside, water passes through three stages of filtration.

First, a Rite-Size filter floss cartridge traps particles and dirt.

Second, water is passed through the Black Diamond activated carbon pad. This cleans chemical impurities from the water.

Third, as the water leaves the filter, it flows through a third filtration stage. Here is where the bio wheels come into action. These work like water wheels, turning as the water passes over them. They add biological filtration to the setup and assist the nitrogen cycle in your tank.

The mid-filter allows for some control of the flow rate. This is very helpful for managing water movement around smaller tanks.

Some improvements could be made by adding a clog indicator and self-priming function. Even without these, the Penguin 350 receives great feedback from customers. As the cheapest filter on our list, it’s a great purchase.

Pros:

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  • The cheapest filter
  • Long warranty period
  • Adjustable flow rate
  • Highest customer ratings

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Cons:

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  • Not self-priming
  • No clog indicator
  • Limited to tanks smaller than 70 gallons

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[su_button url="https://www.amazon.com/Marineland-Penguin-Power-Filter-50-Gallon/dp/B0009IODZG/ref=as_li_ss_tl?keywords=MarineLand+Penguin&qid=1577845953&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll1&tag=ap250e-20&linkId=60b534cb723167a6e1950fd70b82b92a&language=en_US" target="blank" style="flat" background="#ef352d" size="7" center="yes" radius="5" icon="icon: hand-o-right" icon_color="#ffffff" text_shadow="0px 0px 0px #000000" rel="nofollow"]Check price on Amazon.com[/su_button]

4. Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filters

aqueon-quietflow-led-pro-aquarium-power-filter

Some people don’t want to hear their fish tank equipment.
The Aqueon QuietFlow filter series is perfect for those who want a silent
setup. The filter’s motor sits down inside the tank. This allows the water to
muffle sound effectively.

The motor is not loud when set up properly. This is also a self-priming pump, so no extra water is required during installation or maintenance.

Quick tip:

Air can become trapped in the impeller and this can lead to extra noise. Adding a little water into the filter or switching it off and on rapidly a few times should clear this problem.

The filter includes three filtration stages.

First, dense floss pads remove unwanted debris.

Following this, an activated carbon pad eliminates unwanted odors and chemicals.

Finally, the water passes through a ‘bio-holster.’ This biological filter promotes the nitrogen cycle by giving a platform on which ammonia-converting bacteria will grow.

Another aspect of the quiet design is the final segment
of the filter. Water passes through the first three stages and then moves into
another sponge pad. This coarse pad, called a diffuser grid, reduces the amount
of noise created by the water returning to the tank.

Aqueon has included a clog indicator in the design of this self-priming pump. This helpful feature lets you know when it’s time to change the filters. We’d like to see a longer warranty and an adjustable flow rate, though.

Pros:

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  • Quietest HOB filter
  • Self-priming
  • Clog indicator

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Cons:

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  • Unable to adjust flow rate
  • Short warranty period

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[su_button url="https://www.amazon.com/Aqueon-QuietFlow-Aquarium-Filters-50-250GPH/dp/B004W50KKY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?keywords=Aqueon+QuietFlow+LED+PRO&qid=1577847274&sr=8-2&linkCode=ll1&tag=ap250e-20&linkId=af5d5d4591e89c61fa905434b965899e&language=en_US" target="blank" style="flat" background="#ef352d" size="7" center="yes" radius="5" icon="icon: hand-o-right" icon_color="#ffffff" text_shadow="0px 0px 0px #000000" rel="nofollow"]Check price on Amazon.com[/su_button]

5. Penn Plax Cascade Hang-on Aquarium Filter

penn-plax-cascade-hang-on-aquarium-filter

Our final entry is the Penn Plax Cascade filter. This
nifty little package is great for providing simple filtration options for tanks
of different sizes. The Cascade 300 moves enough water to service tanks as
large as 100 gallons. The smallest filter, the Cascade 20, is great for small
tanks up to seven gallons in size.

One of the best features of these filters is their
adjustable flow rate. Small tanks and delicate fish need a lower water flow.
The Cascade 20 is perfect for small tanks and gentle fish, such as Betta. The
low flow will not stress the fish or disturb the substrate.

Filtration is achieved by pour watering through a sponge
system, followed by an activated carbon cartridge. The water then passes
through the Bio-Falls Quad Filtration system. This system is designed to circulate
oxygen in the water while also allowing bacteria to grow and remove ammonia and
nitrite from the tank.

We really like the adjustable flow rate and the extended warranty. However, this filter could be improved with the addition of a self-priming function, a clog indicator, and better biological filtration for smaller tanks.

Pros:

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  • Longest warranty period
  • Adjustable flow rate
  • Suitable for tanks up to 100 gallons

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Cons:

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  • Not self-priming
  • No clog indicator
  • Low customer ratings
  • No biological filter media for small tanks

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[su_button url="https://www.amazon.com/Penn-Plax-Cascade-Aquarium-Filtration/dp/B0002DJ812/ref=as_li_ss_tl?keywords=Penn+Plax+Cascade+Hang-on&qid=1577848496&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll1&tag=ap250e-20&linkId=5109e387065755e97593d51d47361bf8&language=en_US" target="blank" style="flat" background="#ef352d" size="7" center="yes" radius="5" icon="icon: hand-o-right" icon_color="#ffffff" text_shadow="0px 0px 0px #000000" rel="nofollow"]Check price on Amazon.com[/su_button]

Our Best HOB Filter

Best Value HOB filter: Aqua Clear

The Aqua Clear Filter is our top choice. Its filtration quality is superb. The adjustable flow rate increases this filter’s flexibility.

Also, being able to use other filter media enhances the filter’s capabilities. We think, for the money, this is the best power filter you can buy.

Do you want Aqua Clear HOB Filter?

[su_button url="https://www.amazon.com/Aqua-Clear-Fish-Filter-Gallons/dp/B000260FUM/ref=as_li_ss_tl?keywords=Aqua+Clear+-+Fish+Tank+Filter&qid=1577719685&sr=8-9&linkCode=ll1&tag=ap250e-20&linkId=ba916dcfa8a82c4f221d9bb2639b97bc&language=en_US" target="blank" style="flat" background="#ef352d" size="7" center="yes" radius="5" icon="icon: hand-o-right" icon_color="#ffffff" text_shadow="0px 0px 0px #000000" rel="nofollow"]Yes, I want to order now! [/su_button]

Another option: Fluval C Power Filter

For those who don’t mind paying extra for a few bless and whistles, the Fluval C Power Filter could be a good choice. Fluval’s filtration quality is much better than other filters for the reasons we described above.

The clog indicator will remind you of the need for maintenance. Fluval parts and accessories are widely available. Buying new pads and filter media will be easy.

Do you want Fluval C Power Filter?

[su_button url="https://www.amazon.com/Fluval-14002A1-C3-Power-Filter/dp/B003SJQJ46/ref=as_li_ss_tl?crid=1U7XRNH0XF5RJ&keywords=fluval+c+power+filter&qid=1577849477&sprefix=Fluval+C+Power+,aps,604&sr=8-2&linkCode=ll1&tag=ap250e-20&linkId=8028163c6c74a7c9a59496736bcdfd9c&language=en_US" target="blank" style="flat" background="#ef352d" size="7" center="yes" radius="5" icon="icon: hand-o-right" icon_color="#ffffff" text_shadow="0px 0px 0px #000000" rel="nofollow"]Yes, I want to order now! [/su_button]

HOB Filters FAQ

People ask many questions about HOB filters. Here, we’re
going to answer some of the most common questions we receive.

What is an HOB filter?

There are three places a filter can go: in the tank, on the tank, and below the tank.

Internal filters sit inside the tank. HOB filters fit onto the tank’s rim and are usually positioned at the back of the tank. Canister filters and sumps are larger and sit below the tank (or somewhere else nearby) and are connected by hoses.

So, an HOB filter is a water filtration system that hangs on
the back of the aquarium.

How does an HOB filter work?

Generally, HOB filters work by drawing water through an
intake tube into the filter chamber. Inside the filter chamber, the water
passes through a series of filter media before being returned to the tank. The
filter media provide mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration to clean
the water.

Are HOB filters good?

They work well for many aquariums. Owners may prefer them because they do not take up room inside the tank.

Also, because they are outside the tank, maintenance can be a little easier. They may provide less water flow than an internal filter, though.

What is the difference between a canister filter and an HOB filter?

A canister filter sits below or beside the tank and is connected by hoses. Generally, canister filters are larger and contain more filter media. This makes them better at keeping the water parameters (such as pH and hardness) stable. They can also be used for larger aquariums. However, they also require more power, are a little more difficult to set up, and can be much more expensive.

So, if you want better water quality for your tank, and money and maintenance are not issues, choose a canister filter. If your tank does not need a lot of water filtration or you want a cheaper and easy-to-maintenance filter, an HOB filter is your choice.

Can I use HOB filter for the saltwater tank?

Sure! All our suggested products can be used in saltwater as well as freshwater tanks. The main difference is the biological filtration being done in a reef tank by the live rocks.

Grab an Aqua Clear filter, take out the biological stage,
and replace it with more mechanical filtration. This will help keep the
particulate matter under control in your saltwater tank.

Conclusion

Now you know our thoughts on the best hang on back filters
on the market. Any of these five will work but we recommend the Aqua Clear
filters.

What are your thoughts? Please let us know if we’re correct
or if we missed a filter you love!

Read the original article at :
5 Best HOB Filters – A Complete Review & Comparison Guide (in 2019)