30g Test: AquaClear 30 vs. Penguin 150 Bio-Wheel

[RDTigger]

Which one do you choose...

• AquaClear 30=$29.99
• Penhuin 150=$26.99

I have a dated fluval 403 to get running again.. but just in case I want a cycler/backup HOB for emergencies... Trying to get a user opinions.

 

[dmopar74]

ac110

 

[JakeH]

There are a lot of AquaClear fans on this site. I'll get it started. AC30 all day. you can go 3-stage, or stack any combination of 3 media inserts. I run 2 mechanical foams & a Bio-Max bag. If you're cycling, they have an Ammonia absorber insert, too. That worked well for me...

 

[RDTigger]

I just hear bio-wheel, bio-wheel.. but the hagen/aquaclear equipment seem to be so much more versatile than the competition.. Is it considered more the professionals choice?

I have an AC 70 power head on the way for the 30g, but I think i'm leaning towards the AC atm..

Anyone have HOB horror/glory stories...?
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[12 Volt Man]

I used to run AC70's (then called AquaClear 300's) on my 30g tanks

perfect size.

I have always felt that all the AC's under the 110 were way undersized for their rated tanks..

eg. I would never put a single AC70 on a 50g, never mind a 70 or 75..

I used to run an AC50 on a 10 gallon. seriously.

worked great.

 

[ani-mal-lvr]

I swear by my AquaClears!!!! Easy maintenance, easily custimized (media wise), no replacement "cartridges" to buy!

I currently am running 7 @ AC110, 9 @ AC70, and 4 @ AC50. They are by far my favorite filter!

 

[Salutationsb]

running two ac 70's on suggestion from local fs guy on a 75 gal tank. seems to be holding up jus fine.

 

[Texs]

Aquaclear hands down.

I fing hate cartridges.

I run an AC30 on a 14 gallon.

I have an AC 50 and an AC 20 on a 20 long. (I am going to replace the 20 with another 50)

I am going to buy a 10 gallon feeder/quaratine tank and put the AC 20 on that.

 

[swede]

whats the biggest aquaclear they make? though? penguin makes some larger dual models

 

[Texs]

AC 110 is the biggest at 500 gph.