WolfPack21

Ok so I was talking with my friend who was a canister filter (fluval 205) on his 29 gallon, while I have two Aquaclear 50 filters on my 29 gallon. We could not agree with whos filter was more efficient? Any thoughts?

peacemaker92

It actually depends. Both choices wouldn't matter because they're both filters and as long as they are fully running and keeping your fish alive, there shouldn't be any debate on it But I'm not really familiar with canister filters so wait for a member who knows more about a canister filter let you know yeah?

WolfPack21

Sounds good to me...I think it can be a very interesting topics because my filters cost around $90 dollars and cycles 400 GPH, where his filter cycles around 175 GPH, I think. However, his filter cost him around $130.

aquarist48

Good morning. I'm partial to the hang on back (HOB) and to the Aqua Clears especially. I like the "ease" of having them and being able to see my filter media. I had the largest Fluval canister a few years back and it did very well but it didn't last as long as some of my hob's have. I just removed an old Whisper V that I've had for 10 years. It was just getting a little too loud but it was still filtering well.

Too, it's really a matter of choice. Use what is best for you and your fish/tank. With the economy the way it is I like the idea of more gph for your $.
Ken

mathas

Well-designed canister filters, by design, tend to be more efficient than HOB filters with a comparable flow rate. In a canister filter, there is typically a significantly reduced chance of water bypassing the media, requiring a HOB filter to have a greater turnover to achieve the same result. I've often heard 10x turnover is desirable for HOB filters while 3-5x turnover is appropriate with a good canister filter.

Assuming all of these numbers are correct, I'd say you guys are pretty close in terms of filtration efficacy, but if it's a question of efficiency, I might give the nod to your friend. His canister filter uses approximately 3W less of power than your combined two HOB filters... similar results with less power means more efficient.

aquarist48

Great points Mathas! There is always a lot to take into consideration when selecting a filter. Wolf you may find even more information in the "reviews/filter filtration" section of the forum.
Ken

WolfPack21

Thanks everyone! I'll let him know what the experts had to say