Filter Choices

[crashar]

Ok

I am starting to obsess on filters now.  I have a 90g planted tank running a Rena Filstar XP3 filter.  I have a fish load that is starting to grow but is not overloaded yet.  I just want to err on the side of caution and have a real good margin of error.  I was thinking about picking up another filter to supplement the one I have.  I love the XP3 but wonder if it is overkill to invest in another one.  I have also been looking at fluidized bed filters (Lifeguard Aquatics (formerly Pentair)).  They seem kinda cool and tend to be cheaper than canisters.  I just don't have enough experience or information to know. 

Would like to hear you experiences and recommendations.

[zima]

Like I shared at the reactor build workshop on Saturday, I am running an XP3 over my 75 gallon, and another Eco Classic 2213. I don't seen it as an overkill at all (mind you I'm a huge fan of over-filtration). If I was to recommend a canister, it would definitely be an Eco (I still use the Rena and the Fluval ones because I have them from old times and never bothered selling. however, all my newly-purchased canisters are Eco). I have no experience with fluidized bed filters, but would certainly like to know more about them!

[fischkopp]

Over filtration is never a bad thing, although other may argue it is a waste of money. Here is my take: I try to have two times the rated capacity, and if I have an extra filter just sitting around, than I will hook it up too.

The advantage of having several filters is that you can use each one for a different purpose. The canister filters are very good bio filters by default. So I try to max out the bio filter capacity in there. And use NOB filters like aquaclear to do the the mechanical part. I really like the eheim classics too.

Currently, I am using 2 FSB (Lifeguard FB300), with two more to be set up. Other than the fact that I had to reseal them (got both used) I am quite happy with them. Each of them is running on a 30gal - that is at least 1/10 of what they are rated for - with good results so far. The good thing with them: they are self-cleaning and virtually maintenance free. Plus, they are way cheaper than any canister with comparable capacity.

FSB have another advantage: they can support anaerobic bacteria in the upper levels of the sandbed, which will reduce nitrate. This is depending on various factors like flow rate, FSB height and oxygen content (make sure there is enough oxygen for the aerobic bacteria in the water). I can't say if that is really happening with the FB300, but I have the feeling that it does (but I don't know, because didn't measure nitrate). So, that may or may not be a good thing in a planted tank, depending on the dosing regime. One of my FSB is running on a planted tank, but not for long enough to make any conclusion whether its good or not. But I do like them overall.

[exv152]

Running a second filter is always a good idea if one of the two breaks down the other can carry the load until you fix the problem.  Run each filter on either end of the tank and run the input tube next to your heater(s).  Eheim canisters are by far the best on the market - worldwide.

[crashar]

Thanks for the replies.  I think you kind of confirmed what I was thinking.  Robert, I am very interested in hearing how the FB filters work for you long term.

I picked up a great Eheim Pro II off of usedottawa.com today.  Set it up tonight and it is running like a charm.  My filtering obsession is under control for now.   

Now on to my next obsession....   .... lighting, feeding, dosing, quarantine... 

Gotta love this hobby.