Newbie help with filter choice

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
What are your water parameters? If your ammonia and nitrite are at 0, you've got enough filtration and more isn't going to make a difference. Do you have water clarity issues?
That said, if you want to spend $220+ on something you don't need, an FX5 is an excellent filter.

Posted on mobile.monsterfishkeepers.com
 
If you have the money I would get an Eheim 2262 or 2260 first. If you can not afford those then get the FX5. But believe me the Eheim is definitely a better filter.
 
nah FX5 is. :)

*not trying to start the debate between 2260 and fx5*
 
Hello and welcome to MFK!

It seems the FX5 is the most popular filter here. I have a Rena XP4 (which I like) but in terms of having access others to help you out if you're having troube, a FX5 is the way to go.

On a side note..you stated you have a Figure 8 Puffer in your stock list. This fish is a brackish water fish requiring a salinity of 1.005-1.008. You may want to consider taking him to your LFS and trading in for credit. While you're there, you could ask them if they have any used canister filters for sale :)

Good luck!
 
thanks for the help and suggestions. i am wondering about the whirlpool effect....should this be a concern? sounds like the goal is to filter water volume 4-6 times per hour (let me know if im on the right track)

this seems excessive. wont the fish end up in a whirlpool?
 
I would say 4-6 times an hour turnover rate (actual, rather than pump output) is what you should be aiming for. This isn't excessive, especially if the return flow is distributed by a spray bar. A lot of guys on MFK are in favour of overfiltration and may advocate a higher turnover rate, but that's really down to personal preference, it's not necessary for maintaining your water parameters.
 
Do you have any pics of your current setup?
 
Your F8 puffer belongs in a BW tank: http://www.**************.com/forum/library/puffers-in-focus/fig8/
 
I use a conditioning salt for freshwater. I was told to add one tablespoon per five gallons. I typically use one cup of the salt when i do a water change (which is typically 70 or so gallons on a change) I hope that will change with the addition of an external filter...

What do you think??
 
I think you are wasting salt. There is no such thing as "conditioning" salt & many FW fish will not appreciate any salt at all: http://www.**************.com/forum/library/misc/thesaltoftheearth/

As per my article, F8 puffers need a SG of 1.005, which is roughly, 1 cup of marine salt/5g.
 
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