Hikari Mini Sponge Filter 5 Gallon Tank, Is It Enough?

I’m in the process of setting up my new Aqueon 5 gallon MiniBow. So the filter included uses filter cartridges and just doesn’t look adequate to me. So I bought a Hikari mini sponge filter, hikari check valve, tetra whisper air pump, and penn place airline tubing. Does anyone have any experience with this sponge filter or air pump, and will this sponge filter be enough on it’s own to properly filter my water? If not what else should I add? Also the air pump is going to be below my aquarium either on a shelf on the aquarium stand or on the floor. Can anyone tell me if it’s okay to put an air pump on the floor? Thanks!

 

The mini sponge should be perfectly fine for a 5-10 gallon tank.I see you have a check valve so if you need to put your pump on the floor then knock yourself out.

 

I don’t have any electrical items on the floor. A brick would be the minimum to keep the electrical leads off the floor. Should you spill water on the floor you don’t want to pop the power outlet safety switch and lose electricity as well as have a low level in the tank.

 

I don’t have any electrical items on the floor. A brick would be the minimum to keep the electrical leads off the floor. Should you spill water on the floor you don’t want to pop the power outlet safety switch and lose electricity as well as have a low level in the tank.

Oh yeah I hadn’t thought of that. I’ll just stick it under the tank on the shelf of the stand. Thanks!

The mini sponge should be perfectly fine for a 5-10 gallon tank.I see you have a check valve so if you need to put your pump on the floor then knock yourself out.

I’ve read a few people have had trouble with check valves. What happens if the check valve fails and water runs into the air pump?

 

I’ve read a few people have had trouble with check valves. What happens if the check valve fails and water runs into the air pump?

You usually need a new pump.