Best Aquarium Filters for Your Fish Tank: Everything You Need to Know
Aquariums are one of the most beautiful and calming sights to behold. They are like miniature underwater worlds with an abundance of colors and marine life. However, to maintain a healthy aquarium, one needs to have the right equipment. One of the most essential pieces of equipment is an external aquarium filter. This article will discuss the best external aquarium filters available in the market.
Introduction
The importance of a good external aquarium filter cannot be overstated. A filter is responsible for removing debris, uneaten food, and waste products from the water in your aquarium. Without a filter, the water in your aquarium can quickly become cloudy and toxic, leading to sick fish and plants. An external filter is an excellent option as it can be placed outside the aquarium, saving space and reducing noise.
Types of External Aquarium Filters
There are three types of external aquarium filters: canister filters, hang-on-back filters, and sump filters.
Canister Filters
Canister filters are the most common type of external aquarium filter. They are versatile and can be used for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums. Canister filters are ideal for larger aquariums as they have a high flow rate and can handle large volumes of water. They are also easy to maintain as the filter media can be changed without disturbing the fish.
Hang-On-Back Filters
Hang-on-back filters are the easiest type of external filter to install. They are hung on the back of the aquarium and are ideal for small to medium-sized aquariums. They have a lower flow rate compared to canister filters, but they are still effective in keeping the water clean.
Sump Filters
Sump filters are the most advanced type of external aquarium filter. They are designed for large aquariums and are placed beneath the aquarium. Sump filters have a high flow rate and can handle large volumes of water. They also have space for additional filter media and equipment like heaters and protein skimmers.
Top External Aquarium Filters
Now that we know the different types of external aquarium filters let's take a look at the top options available in the market.
1. Fluval FX6 Canister Filter
The Fluval FX6 Canister Filter is one of the most powerful and efficient filters in the market. It can handle up to 400 gallons of water and has a flow rate of 563 gallons per hour. The filter has a multi-stage filtration system that includes mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration. It also has a self-priming feature that makes maintenance easy.
2. Marinel and Magniflow Canister Filter
The Marinel and Magniflow Canister Filter is another powerful canister filter that is ideal for large aquariums. It has a flow rate of 360 gallons per hour and can handle up to 100 gallons of water. The filter has a multi-stage filtration system that includes mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration. It also has a quick prime feature that makes maintenance easy.
3. Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium, Power Filter
The Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filter is a hang-on-back filter that is ideal for small to medium-sized aquariums. It has a flow rate of 200 gallons per hour and can handle up to 55 gallons of water. The filter has a multi-stage filtration system that includes mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration. It also has a LED indicator that alerts you when it's time to change the filter cartridge.
4. Aqua Clear Power Filter
The AquaClear Power Filter is another hang-on-back filter that is ideal for small to medium-sized aquariums. It has a flow rate of 150 gallons per hour and can handle up to 50 gallons of water.
