Tank stand ideas?

[Zeon]

All filters, even sponge filter have the potential to leak. But if you use a good check valve, a sponge might be your safest bet. I’ve flooded my house with a canister before( an eel pushed the return hose out while I was away. So a sponge would be the safest, then a high quality HOB and then a canister IMO

I found an ac 50 for $30. I might put it with my tetra 45. That should be good

 

[tlindsey]

I’m not able to do another hob filter because my last one leaked and my parents don’t want me to get another one.

I suggest you get a sponge filter. I believe in keeping parents happy.

 

[Deadeye]

Much greater margin of error with a canister IME, I’ve almost leaked mine pretty much every time I try to clean it. They aren’t fun to clean either.
I can’t comment on the sponge as I’ve never used one as the only source of filtration.
A good hob shouldn’t leak if well maintained, but best to do what your parents want. Plenty of filtration options out there.