What To Look for in an Aquarium Filter System

Keeping your aquarium's water quality in check can be a tricky thing. Luckily, with how far aquarium-keeping technology has come, filtration systems do a lot of the work for us. However, on the downside, this new technology can make it difficult to pick the best system. That's why this article will review what you need to look for in an aquarium filtration system.

Three Types of Filtration

Your aquarium needs three types of filtration systems in order to create the most ideal and healthy aquatic environment possible. These systems are known as chemical, biological, and mechanical systems. Ideally, the filter you choose will be able to do all three. Your filter should mechanically filter by straining out solid waste particles, biologically filter by having biomedia for healthy bacteria to grow on, and chemically filter with media that catches impurities and can be switched out once fully saturated.

Size

The next two criteria depend on the size of your tank. It may seem obvious that a bigger tank needs a bigger filter, but just how big does the filter need to be? As a general rule of thumb, all the water in the tank should pass through the filter roughly four times per hour. Luckily, filters will come with a flow rate that tells you how many gallons it filters per hour. However, if the filter is on the cusp of flowing just enough water, you should upgrade to a higher filter. For example, if you need a filter with 120 gallons per hour (gph), but the filters fall between 100 gph and 150 gph, go with the 150 gph filter just to be safe.

Filter Type

Finally, you'll need to choose between filter types. The three most popular filters that aquarium hobbyists use are sponge filters, hang-on back filters, and canister filters. Sponge filters are great because they're cheap and excellent at providing mechanical and biological filtration, but there's no way to include chemical filtration. Hang-on back filters are very customizable and can include all three forms of filtration; however, if it sucks up a sponge or the filter runs dry, the power motor that drives the flow can burn out. Lastly, canister filters are just as powerful as hang-on back filters and are even quieter. However, they are the most expensive and need to be almost completely disassembled in order to clean them properly.

Now that you know what you need to look for in an aquarium filtration system, you're better equipped with the knowledge to find the best filter for your tank's needs. At Fish Tanks Direct, you never have to search high and low for the parts you need to make the perfect setup. We sell custom aquarium tanks that come with all the accessories and trimmings you need to create the perfect environment for your fish.