Another Filter? Power Head?

Hey everyone. I’ve got a question. I’m currently cycling my 55 gallon (fish in, long story). Anyway I’m only running a Marineland 400 currently and need water movement at least. Should I get a power head like a Fluval 70? Or another filter? Maybe something like an aquaclear 50 or 70? Thanks.

 

I would personally always go with more filtration over just moving water. Your current filter seems about right for a 55 gallon tank but, an AquaClear 50 adds another 200gph and a 70 would add another 300gph. Both should add more movement as well.

 

I just put an Aqueon AT40 internal power filter in my 45 as supplemental filtration for a similar HOB I had been running, and have been very satisfied with the result. That model adds about 150gph more, and cost me about $25. Since it's easy to move around the tank, it serves a similar purpose to a powerhead, while also giving you more filtration.

 

I like power heads as you can also aI'm them at any dead spots. If you get two hobs you might as well get a canister and use spray bar.

 

if you're adding a 2nd hob, i'd suggest adding a Tidal 110 for $63 from KensFish.

dead spots shouldn't be a problem with 2 hobs, and if you're doing large weekly water changes and vacuuming.

 

it's not a bad idea to throw in a giant sponge filter too

 

Well, I picked up a Fluval 50 power filter this afternoon for a good price that I’m going to use with the Marineland for now. At the time I posted this I was already on the way to the store because I’m extremely impatient so I didn’t see these answers. I’m not familiar with the tidal 110. Wish I would’ve seen that before going. I know I’ve seen a lot of people say they like the Marineland bio wheel filters. Maybe it’s just mine but since the first day, 1 wheel spins very fast while the other about half the speed. Seems the sprayers aren’t quite aligned right in the one side.