Best filtration? Most efficient?

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
Freshwaterpredators

Freshwaterpredators

Peacock Bass
MFK Member
Apr 25, 2009
5,071
137
120
The Grotto
Hi everyone, with all the new models and DIY projects going on I thought that I would start learning filtration. I've always gone with cheap Walmart which led to ac110's then to sponge filters. I'm getting ready to build a bunch if new tanks and need help or suggestions on which filtration would be the best for my set up and saves the most on electricity.

I will have two rows of tanks, first row will be a double stack 240's next to that is double stack 120's then to end it will be two stands built for 120's with flat top surface to include a 240 above and 2-120's below.

My second row will be 3 stands holding 180's double stacked.

Behind them will be 2- 350's end to end with a foot or two between for me to access. I'm thinking of having the stands for 350's be welded instead of wood. But this way I could possibly do a sump for the 360's? I will be keeping all SA/CA cichlids andostly pairs, few growout tanks. The 350's may possibly be large community tanks temporarily holding a community if amphs in one and haven't decided in the other. Just am idea of bioload for them. The 240's will be a pair in each only same with a few of the 180's. The rest of the tanks will hold growouts and fry:) I hope I gave enough info to help you help me:) I'm open to suggestions in all angles, thank you very much in advance.
Jason


Sent from my iPhone using MonsterAquariaNetwork app
 
I've grown partial to the AquaClear filters. You can get one that flows up to 500 GPH (not cheap), but they move a lot of water quietly and without disturbing the surface too much as long as your water level is high. I also like the design and filter media. They have a huge particle filter that rarely needs cleaned, resulting in low maintenance, good performance, and a more stable biological element. They also have plenty of room in the case and the impeller is well covered so you can put your own extra media in there without binding it up. As far as sumps go I have no clue. Never had one
 
I just re-read your post and noticed you said "ac110's" I assume youre talking about the AquaClear filters that Im using. Dont like them much?
 
AC110's are actually pretty energy efficient. I believe 14 watts. For something that pumps at 500GPH thats fantastic. The rest of them AC70 on down are at 6 watts I believe.
 
I'm confused by your wording. From the way I'm reading it you'll have 10 tanks totaling 2140 gallons??? Are you starting a business or something? That is a massive project, especially since it sounds like you don't have much now.

Are you talking getting a filter for each tank or one central filter? The easiest maintenance would be to plumb all of the tanks together (minus a quarantine tank and maybe a fry tank) and do one large sump. For systems that size rows of bag filters and then large bins of bio media seem to be the norm, or you could do a buy a large fluidized bed filter. There are a few guys on these forums that have fish rooms set up like that, you'd have to look for the posts.


Sent from my iPhone using MonsterAquariaNetwork app
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
MonsterFishKeepers.com
Top Bottom