charliego23

what's a good filter for a 3g tank aside from a sponge filter? i'm really a fan of sponges..

Lucy

I have a small whisper 3i filter that I use sometimes. It's ok, never had a problem with it. The flow rate isn't adjustable and it works with an air pump, which can be annoying.
It has cartridge with carbon but I usually stick a sponge in there instead.
I just bought an Elite mini filter from Hagen. It's really quiet. It has an adjustable flow but even on the lowest setting, it's pretty strong. I covered it with a knee high stocking, that helped. It does have a sponge inside, no carbon or catridge.

haedra

You might try this: http://www.petco.com/product/12148/R...t=OnSiteSearch

It is a mini HOB filter designed for tanks of that size. It also has an adjustable flow.

It looks to be very similar to what Lucy is describing.

Lucy

I was at petco a few days ago, didn't see the one in the link haedra gave. I've seen several members recommend that one.

The Elite mini is an internal filter....which is what I needed for the kritter keeper (I didn't want to cut the lid to accommodate an hob).

haedra

I don't think the Red Sea is available in all of their stores; I ended up ordering mine online from Petco.

Lucy

Well, that explains it.

haedra

I've got to say, the only thing I don't like about it is that it's clear, and not opaque. I'd been having quite the algae problem in my mini bows, mostly diatoms that never seemed to go away, while my 10 gallon cleared up on its own like it was supposed to.

Now, wiping off diatoms is not a problem, except when they coat the inside of that tube. Taking it apart is a little risky IMO, just because the plastic seems a weaker type than other HOB filters. And even with my bendy filter brush I never seemed to get it all out.

So aesthetically, the goo on the inside of the tube is the only problem I've ever had with it.