IOS vs OHF filtration

[gordoncheers]

Looking to get a 300 gallon tank soon,deciding between an OHF or IOS filter.
Does anyone know which would be better in terms of
1. Convenience in maintaining the filter
2. Which one is best for better water circulation and filtration

 

[deeda]

What is an IOS filter?

 

[jjohnwm]

And while you're at it...what's an OHF filter?

 

[Backfromthedead]

Lol I'm thinking ohf is overhead filter and ios is...internal o_____ sponge????

Properly done an overhead filter can be very effective. Though, most of the examples I can think of are not high turnover/flow, so circulation may be an issue in a tank 300+ gallons.

 

[DRUKENMUNKY]

It all depends on your setup. A ohs is usually alot easier to maintain but there are alot of variables....first thing to consider is glass vs acylic...if u have a glass tank big you will need alot of media in the filter so with weight you can not put it directly on top of tank...with big acrylic tanks thought it usually thick enuff tobgold the weight without a stand or shelf of some sort. Also with flow rate involved a sump below the tank puts pressure on the pump so it's easier to direct the intake.....with a ohs the water will gravity feed down with not as much pressure. Biggest difference for me and mu ohs is maintenance..it is alot easier for me to rinse and change media with it on top and also no chance of flooding in a power outage..as long as the filter can hold media it doesn't matter if your tank 300 gallons or a 1000 gallons. Also with a ohs u can get away with less drilling and also if opted less turn over if that's a factor

 

[gordoncheers]

What is an IOS filter?

internal overflow system

 

[gordoncheers]

And while you're at it...what's an OHF filter?

its those overhead filters that are stackable

 

[DRUKENMUNKY]

I'm talking about a overhead sump..this one I made is 8 ft long and filters my 1000 gallon

 

[jjohnwm]

I'm talking about a overhead sump..this one I made is 8 ft long and filters my 1000 gallon

View attachment 1463062

Nice work. It's a pleasure to see a DIY project like this that is designed to work, rather than just to look pretty with colour-coordinated pipework and perfectly aligned fittings.

A question, if I may? The compartments containing what I assume to be some sort of ceramic blocks or tubes appear to be sealed at the bottom on both sides, with water only entering and exiting at the top. Is this intended to create a low-flow anaerobic chamber for nitrate removal?

 

[DRUKENMUNKY]

Those are just simple 6 inch ceramic stones usually found in pond supply stores.....no anaerobic action happening here....the filter itself is pushing almost 8000 gallons per hour so it's running fast. Only aerobic in my opinion....I assume my nitrates stay low because I service all the sponges weekly and do about 60 percent wc twice a week....my nitrates average 15 ppm