Canister Filter - good or bad

GoLowDrew · 06/05/2006, 11:20 PM

I tried the search and my membership won't allow me to.

Are Canister ok for a FOLR tank? My bio wheel filter died and I need a replacement ASAP. I don't know enough about skimmers or sump systems, and don't want to spend big $$$ since I'm not ready yet.

I don't have an example on-line. But has 4 compartments for different types of filters.

TIA

TIA

kraze3 · 06/05/2006, 11:49 PM

You can run a canister filter but you are better off with a sump and skimmer IMO. The canister filter will need to be cleaned weekly.

Blown 346 · 06/06/2006, 12:07 AM

I agree, if they arent cleaned frequently, you will find yourself battling algaes and bad water quality.

chip721 · 06/06/2006, 07:52 AM

I have a sumpless 29g also. I run a Magnum HOT canister for the additional flow, but with Granulated Activated Carbon only. I clean the canister weekly and replace the GAC bi-weekly. But I also have a HOT Remora skimmer. If you elect to use a canister, don't ignore the maintenance. It will silently, slowly, and certainly start causing water quality issues. I've found that reduced flow can be an indicator the unit needs some attention. Meanwhile, I'd also start researching HOT skimmers. Ask for suggestions on this forum before you spend your money. There are lots of good and not so good ones; all in the same general price range. Nothing special, but here's a couple quick pics of my 29g. Excuse my clutter, I've got some renovation projects going on through-out my house. Notice the HOT Remora skimmer on the left and the HOT Magnum canister on the right.

06/05/2006, 11:20 PM	#1
GoLowDrew No Title Join Date: Feb 2004 Posts: 390	Canister Filter - good or bad I tried the search and my membership won't allow me to. Are Canister ok for a FOLR tank? My bio wheel filter died and I need a replacement ASAP. I don't know enough about skimmers or sump systems, and don't want to spend big $$$ since I'm not ready yet. I don't have an example on-line. But has 4 compartments for different types of filters. TIA TIA __________________ Thanks for answering my questions. Current Tank Info: 29G with 30lbs Live Rock, powerhead, one Clown fish.

06/05/2006, 11:49 PM	#2
kraze3 Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: RI Posts: 2,373	You can run a canister filter but you are better off with a sump and skimmer IMO. The canister filter will need to be cleaned weekly.

06/06/2006, 12:07 AM	#3
Blown 346 Registered Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Rockford, Illinois Posts: 6,596	I agree, if they arent cleaned frequently, you will find yourself battling algaes and bad water quality.

06/06/2006, 07:52 AM	#4
chip721 Premium Member Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Alexandria, Virginia Posts: 1,260	I have a sumpless 29g also. I run a Magnum HOT canister for the additional flow, but with Granulated Activated Carbon only. I clean the canister weekly and replace the GAC bi-weekly. But I also have a HOT Remora skimmer. If you elect to use a canister, don't ignore the maintenance. It will silently, slowly, and certainly start causing water quality issues. I've found that reduced flow can be an indicator the unit needs some attention. Meanwhile, I'd also start researching HOT skimmers. Ask for suggestions on this forum before you spend your money. There are lots of good and not so good ones; all in the same general price range. Nothing special, but here's a couple quick pics of my 29g. Excuse my clutter, I've got some renovation projects going on through-out my house. Notice the HOT Remora skimmer on the left and the HOT Magnum canister on the right.