New Canister Filter

[sutherland]

I currently have a 37G running two Penguin 200 filters up top (both running aftermarket Imagine BioGold filter media) and would love to add an additional filtration unit. The tank (weekly 20% water changes) houses several African Cichlids and one Synodontis and I would like to further improve the conditions they live in.

This isn't a means to address rising ammonia levels, the tank runs EXTREMELY clean (even on the day of water change with levels below .02 ppm). I would like to eventually phase out the biological media on the HOBs and use them strictly for chemical filtration (easier removal of media if dosing the tank is necessary) and allow the canister to handle that particular load once the sponge is established.

Does anyone have any suggestions for a good canister filter? I know they are great and always beneficial...just don't know which ones to consider.

 

[ProblEmZ]

Any companies you prefer? High flow rate or Low flow rate? Any that interest you that you have questions about?

 

[sutherland]

Any companies you prefer? High flow rate or Low flow rate? Any that interest you that you have questions about?

I see threads involving problems with FX5 filters, so that may be out of the question. The Marineland Penguins already demand enough attention to maintenance and upkeep.

The Eheim Classic filter line and Rena (not too familiar with) seem to perk my interest. In terms of flow rate, currently the Penguins each have 200gph, perhaps that is where I am miffed.

I would like to either shorten the intakes on the Penguins and let them pull the upper half of the tank and allow the canister to pull from the lower half (where most debris settles).

 

[sterling_mcdaniel]

Well a Fx5 is a little big for a 37 i would recommend a xp2 or xp3.

 

[chiphead]

I got two Rena XP4s on a 125g running but only for a couple of weeks now. So far I am very pleased with them. Very easy assembly with lots of options.

 

[ProblEmZ]

I use an eheim 2213 on a 29g with a couple of Emp. I have only bio and the pad that came with it. Saving the carbon insert for when i have to remove meds.

 

[hybridtheoryd16]

I like the magnum 350 canisters. i have 2 and they do great for me. They have the ability to change out the media for a micron polishing filter to clean up any algae or bacterial blooms or just make the water crystal clear.

 

[Bderick67]

Personally I think you are wasting your money adding a canister to your tank. If your water params are you to par and the tank is crystal clear then whats the point? Removing the bio wheels will not make the penguins more efficeint mechanical or chemical filters.

To answer your question an Eheim 2213 canister is the best value for you. It comes complete with media and will be more then enough bio filtration for your tank. You could even go with the 2215, but IMO it is not needed.


Edit: reread your original post. I assumed your penguins have bio wheels, though you do not state that they do.

 

[heavyhitter]

^^ I agree with Bderick

 

[sutherland]

Personally I think you are wasting your money adding a canister to your tank. If your water params are you to par and the tank is crystal clear then whats the point? Removing the bio wheels will not make the penguins more efficeint mechanical or chemical filters.

To answer your question an Eheim 2213 canister is the best value for you. It comes complete with media and will be more then enough bio filtration for your tank. You could even go with the 2215, but IMO it is not needed.


Edit: reread your original post. I assumed your penguins have bio wheels, though you do not state that they do.

I will point out one major issue I have with the Penguins, and that is the "annoying" amount of maintenance and re-assembly I have after each water-change. Breaking down and cleaning the assembly and impeller. They are serviceable and I intend on using them till they completely cease up, but long term, it's not the best medium.

I am not opposed to running two 2213 canisters and fully replacing the HOBs. I just want the most reliable and efficient system that will continue to provide the best most optimum conditions.