in a dilemma.. which filter...

[RDTigger]

I am about to start my first tank..

I haveparts to a fluval 403..but missing the intake/spraybar (which i can't find for less than $20/each), and the double disconnects for the valves on the canister...

I have been shopping and am looking at an AC 50 power filter.. I think it works better for the 29G tank and is more cost effective, bypassing the spraybar/intake and disconnects...

I may have the Fluval but not 100% sure how reliable/quiet it is and can get the AC for <$40.

I guess it boils down to the reibility/longevity of an AC 50...

 

[12 Volt Man]

I think an AC50 is too small for a 29g. I would step up to the AC 70 size, as the AC's are way way overrated for their tank sizes.

I use an AC 50 on a 10g.

but I used AC 70's on 29g tanks for years. perfect size powerfilter for that tank IMO.

 

[RDTigger]

I think an AC50 is too small for a 29g. I would step up to the AC 70 size, as the AC's are way way overrated for their tank sizes.

I use an AC 50 on a 10g.

but I used AC 70's on 29g tanks for years. perfect size powerfilter for that tank IMO.

Overrated.. but that is crazy overrated...I was hoping the 50 would turn it over 6-8x an hour...

 

[RDTigger]

I should also add that I have an AC 70 power head that will also be used for added circulation...

 

[Texs]

I run an AC50 and an AC20 on my 20 long.

 

[12 Volt Man]

the rproblem with the AC50 isnt the flow rate. it does 200g per hour.

the problem is the media capacity is very small.

for example, the AC 70 holds more than twice as much media as the AC 50.

compare the sponge size of an AC 50 to an AC70 and you'll see what I mean.

 

[haynchinook334]

What are you stocking the tank with?

 

[RDTigger]

What are you stocking the tank with?

I am still trying to decide..

Cichlids or loaches.. just undecided. I know the more fish I have in the tank the greater the filtration necessary. Just working on getting it cycled at this point and making sure I have all the right equipment...

 

[RDTigger]

ok so now even a filter rated for a 50 by Hagen won't work on a 29G?....


Now I am confused.. :facepalm:

 

[12 Volt Man]

yup. that basically it.

a few years ago, the AC 70's were called AC300's and rated for up to 100 gallon tanks.

I don't think there is a fishkeeper alive that would put a single little AC70 on even a 65g tank by itself, never mind a 100.

AC's are amazing, but the ratings Hagen gives them are way way far off. and still are even though they are changed a bit..