Many new fish tanks have in-built filters, but this isn’t always the case, making it important to get the appropriate model for your home aquarium. This device performs a vital task––but the wrong-sized filter can cause problems for your tank. In this guide, we’ll look at everything you need to know about getting the right-sized filter. There are also different types, so we’ll examine the differences and discuss maintenance tips. Let’s get started!
First: Do I Need a Fish Tank Filter?
Most serious fish hobbyists have filters. For starters, filters trap waste, like leftover food and degrading plant matter. In the long run, this makes it easier for owners to keep a healthy aquatic environment. However, filters provide several other benefits beyond removing debris. Owners enjoy that they don’t need to clean the tank as often. This is even more important for saltwater tank owners who worry about contaminating their aquarium’s water chemistry while cleaning it.
Filters also help with water circulation, helping cycle oxygen throughout the aquarium. This reduces the risk of algae blooms and allows your fish to breathe (yes, even underwater animals need oxygen!). Meanwhile, filters also reduce ammonia buildups by converting them into nitrites. Ammonia is deadly for fish in high doses, so this is a crucial role.
Many people buy goldfish and put them bowls without a filter. Without this critical device, they’re not giving the poor fish a fair chance at survival.
Your Tank’s Size Determines the Filter’s Strength
As a general rule, we recommend that all the tank’s water passes through the filter four times per hour. The simple way to calculate this is by multiplying the size of your tank by four. For example, a common 20-gallon tank needs a filter with a flow rate of 80 gallons per hour. It’s better to get one that’s slightly more powerful than too weak. In this case, a 100-gallon flow rate is preferable to a 70-gallon flow rate.
However, be careful getting a filter that’s too strong for your tank. Owners should spot this because their fish will struggle to swim against the current. Fish may also demonstrate erratic behavior like lying on the tank’s base or hiding in corners. An overly powerful filter can stress the fish and trigger health problems. You may need to adjust the settings or get a weaker filter that’s more suitable for a smaller tank.
Owners can disguise their filters by adding more plants and decorative accessories.
There Are Three Main Aquarium Filter Types
There are three main types of filters that marine hobbyists get for their tanks. They differ in size, function, and design. Here’s what to know:
Internal Filters Are the Most Popular Type
These filters are the most popular variety on the market. They include quiet canister filters that contain one or two sponges to help clean the tank. They often serve the dual purpose of mechanical and biological filtration. Typically, they have adjustable flow settings. Owners can also change the direction of the nozzle. These filters are great for most home freshwater and saltwater tanks.
Air Powered Filters Have a Gentle Flow
Air-powered filters are no longer as popular these days, but they’re still useful for smaller tanks. That’s because they have a gentler flow. They’re ideal if you have an aquarium with betta fish.
External Filters Suit Large Aquariums
These are the largest filters as well as the most powerful. They typically have a flow rate of 130 gallons or more, so they’re not suitable for small tanks. However, they’re very effective and an excellent option for hobbyists with larger fish, like cichlids. They’re also more expensive, but they’re a worthwhile investment.
Aquarium Filters Need Regular Maintenance
You don’t need to clean your filter as often as the tank itself. Still, it’s worth checking your filter every couple of weeks. We recommend cleaning the most commonly clogged parts at one time, which is easier to do if you examine them regularly. Some fish enthusiasts clean their filters monthly, while others wait longer. It’s advisable to check the manufacturer’s guide because this will give you a deeper insight. However, if your fish produces excessive waste, like some foxfaces, you may need to clean more often.
When keeping your aquarium clean, another tip is to add a bottom feeder to your tank. This will reduce the strain on your filter because these fish love eating algae, decaying plant matter, and food waste. Popular tank cleaners include cory catfish and kuhli loaches.
Can Fish Survive Without a Filter?
Things may happen out of your control. There may be a power outage in the neighborhood, or your filter may simply stop working. Don’t panic if this happens because your fish won’t immediately go belly-up. Yes, you should replace a broken filter as quickly as possible. But your fish should stay healthy for a day or two if the old filter did its job properly.
We advise against feeding them for this period because this will increase the amount of waste in the tank. Measure your tank parameters and do a water change if you think it is necessary. Plants also help remove ammonia too, so it’s good to have a few in your home aquarium if possible. It’s good to prepare for this unfortunate scenario by keeping a basic USB-powered air pump or similar device to keep the water moving.
