Eheim 2262 or FX5 for a 300g

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cdc

Candiru
MFK Member
Jun 11, 2008
291
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Menifee, socal
I posted a thread a couple of days ago asking about the FX5. I have seen a forums member is selling a used Eheim 2262 for $250 and was wondering if this was a better option than a new FX5.

I know this has been discussed before and I have searched but I want to get rid of my sump and switch to canisters.

Would a 2262 be a better than a FX5 to run my 300g?
 
The only operational flow rate tests I've seen for a 2262 came from Harley K, who has two 2262s and tested both at about 330gph/1250lph. I still find that really odd, I expected their design to be a lot more efficient than that. Personally I really couldn't justify 80 watts of electricity an hour for that little flow.

FX5s routinely run at 600+gph/2250+lph, I tested mine at about 2400lph. It's also more energy efficient, 48 watts on 240 volt power, 51 watts on 110 volt power, to run a 3500lph pump, compared to 80 watts to run a 3400lph pump on the 2262.

They hold about the same amount of media, but the majority of an FX5's is sponges. A 2262 holds a lot more 'bio-media', but unless you have more fish than water an FX5 holds more 'bio-media' than you need.

I am not an advocate of overfiltration but for a 300 gallon tank I definitely wouldn't rely on a single 2262 or FX5 to filter it, unless it's very, very lightly stocked, and preferably full of thriving plants.
I'd consider a pair of large canister filters to be necessary. Buy the 2262 and buy an FX5 too. At least then you'll get the best of both.
 
For $250 does the 2262 come with media? That would be a total deal! That thing holds a ton of media and would cost some $$$ to fill.
 
I'd just go with an Fx5 for now. I use 2 on my 330 and they do just great. And if something breaks its easy to get parts for. If ur fish have a high bioload dont get those polish pad for an Fx5 they clog to easily. Just fill all 3 levels with bio media. And ur water will be crystal clear.
 
got mine for like $245 each new and they shipped for free.
 
i would say keep the sump and use a canister at least until u can afford a second canister. sumps can be much better at bio filtertration, if done right, and canisters at mechanical filtration u get the best of both...

but if u want better bio get the 2262 . if u want better mechanical get the FX5
 
Thanks for the advise I will probably have to keep the sump on with a small pump (currently have a quiet one 6000 and another 1100gph pump) and have the canister as well. The sump is terrible at mechanical filtration no matter what I do to it. A filter sock will block in less than 2 days. My fish are messy eaters.
 
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