smileyfish

My tank looks kind of cloudy and im thinking that part (not all) of it is the filter... Its also on the back because of a large light fixture. Could this be a flaw too?

aquarist48

Hey Smiley...as far as your filtration is concerned your filter should process 8 to 10 x the volume of your tank. So if your filters' GPH is 400gph or better everything should be fine. If not, you may want to consider a larger or better yet an additional filter.
Ken

alicem

Hi Smiliefish,
It would be good to know, if you could tell us, what brand and model your filter is.

Often the manufacturer will "expand upon" the filter's actual gph rating.
This is a pretty good load for a 40G tank if your filter is a little small for the job.
You may very well need a second (additional) filter or you can clean the single filter more often.
More frequent cleaning, with only 1 filter, can be tricky to do w/o creating a ammonia spike.

HOBs are fine for your size tank, if they are efficient enough.
Or is it one of those models that's built into the light hood?
alicem

rt12

If there is carbon in your filter it helps keep the water clear. If you do then do a 10 to 2o percent water change every day or two until it clears up. A water clarifier will also help. If its still cloudly then like everyone else said you may need to upgrade your filter.

PaganGodess

You don't want to use a chemical like water clarifier if you can help it. Start with the water change, 20% would be best, give it a day or two to cycle and do it again. Make sure to vacuum out your rock and if you haven't changed your filter recently, change it.

aquarist48

Hello PaganGodess. This is an old thread and the problem is probably and hopefully resolved by now. Be sure to check the dates of the original post.
Thanks! Have a great weekend.
Ken