So done with sicce whale 120. looking at oase filter !!

Hello!
I have limited space for my canister filter and so I got a Sicce whale 120. It’s horrible. It’s so finicky and I got a brand new free replacement bc mine was so bad after three months and now this one stinks.
I assumed it was user error because it was my first canister, but I’ve since gotten a Fluval 307 for my other tank and that works like a dream—no problems ever. Anyway, I still have the limited space under this tank and I am done with this filter. I refuse to use it anymore, but I also am obsessed with canisters now because of the quietness—so how is the oase filtosmart? I know the oase bio line is amazing but I need the filtosmart bc of the dimensions. And yes I looked into cutting into the area to create more space and I can’t sadly.

Look into the company Aquael. Hands down they produce the quietest canister filter on the market. They have a HUGE media capacity and much better flow than the Oase canisters, which every Oase owner I know has complained about.

Look into the company Aquael. Hands down they produce the quietest canister filter on the market. They have a HUGE media capacity and much better flow than the Oase canisters, which every Oase owner I know has complained about.

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So i have my first aquael on the way but they are a much larger filter then the op needed.

I believe you had special requirements and i think the zoo med 30 would fit the bill - they can leak in some cases but generally they are simple and pretty reliable. I would adjust the media they provide a bit and not use the ceramic but over-all i'm happy with mine the oldest being around 5 years.

The problem sounds less like user error and more like an unreliable filter. If a replacement unit is having the same issues, the trouble may be related to the design, priming system, seals, hose connections, impeller, or limited cabinet clearance.

Before buying another filter, measure the entire space, including the room needed to remove the lid and connect the hoses. A compact canister may fit physically but still be difficult to prime or maintain if the hoses are bent or the lid cannot be opened comfortably. Check for trapped air, clogged intake or output lines, damaged O-rings, loose connections, and an impeller that may be dirty or worn.

Since the Fluval 307 has been running reliably for you, your experience suggests the Sicce is the issue rather than user error. A different compact canister may work better, but confirm its actual media capacity, flow after head loss, hose size, replacement parts, and maintenance access before purchasing. If the cabinet is extremely tight, a hang-on-back or compact internal setup may be less frustrating than forcing another canister into the space.

How about the Fluval 107 it's 5 inches taller though than the whale. If that can work for you it could be an option. I've had a 107 for over 2 years with no issues.