Wyphy

I'm setting up my 29G freshwater fish only tank again after it's been stored for several years.

I have an Eclipse 3, which I really liked; made it look very sleek I thought.
Problem is that I need to replace the pump system as it's very noisy, and actually I think it was getting that way when I took it down.
It's an old Eclipse so I can't just get a new impeller as they don't make them anymore; so I'll need to get a new pump, impeller, and flow diffuser. Total cost would be around $40.
I may also need to replace a lamp starter, but they are pretty cheap and easy so I'm not worried there.

Or I could get an AquaClear for about the same price.
They have great reviews and I've seen a poll or two here with them as the clear winner.
I have a hood that came with the tank, though it's only a 1 lamp fixture instead of 2 with the Eclipse, so there isn't any extra expense going with the AquaClear.

I've heard mixed reviews with the Eclipse systems, though I always had good luck with it, but I am tempted by the AquaClear's configuration flexibility (would probably go with 1 sponge and 2 BioMax as a normal config, unless someone would suggest something better).

Kind of a tough choice to me, so what are your opinions?

pinkfloydpuffer

I love my Aquaclear, and I use 1 sponge and 2 biomax

fishlover78

well, I also have heard mixed things about the eclispe systems, I would get a reg hood which isn't hard to find and a aquqaclear 50 would work nicely, and I am biug with mechanical filtration so I would do 1 foam pad, 1 bio max and a big wad of filter floss, you don't have to buy the name brand filter cartridges, alot of times you can find the media bags and loose media very cheap.

pepetj

Hi Wyphy:

If you like the looks of your Eclipse hood which have better lighting than the standard I figure repairing it as a good idea.

You might be able to adapt a cheaper but fairly well built pump in it, just make as accurate measurements of the old pump, including intake/output diameters and try to find one as similar as possible so it fits well.

Good luck

Pepe
Santo Domingo

ccb04

The Eclipse hoods do offer a sleek look. Personally though, I'm a big fan of AquaClear filters. You could get the AC 50 (200 GPH) ... or get the AC 70 (300 gph), which would give you the 10X filtration many recommend.

And like PFP, I am using 1 sponge and 2 biomax. I've also used dual sponges with 1 biomax. I prefer the single sponge with 2 biomax a bit better. And at cleaning time, I let the two biomax sit inside the tank ... and soak and swish the sponge in a container of tank water; then I go about any other necessary maintenance which is also easy.

I really like the various media configurations that can be used ... and if you wanted to, you can even add an AquaClear surface skimmer attatchment.