Setting up sponge filter in betta tank

Hi everyone,

I'm planning on setting up a sponge filter for a 5 gallon low-tech planted betta tank. I've always used HOB filters, but in my last Fluval tank thought it created too much turbulence for the betta. I understand the concept and that the sponge filter is connected to an air pump. Are there any technical issues I should be aware of? For example, how brisk does the bubbling need to be to generate adequate filtration? Since I've never used a sponge filter before, any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

The more powerful airpump you have, the faster the water will flow through and the faster the water gets turned over. Most people will tell you to get a sponge filter rate for 5+ gallons and an airpump that is rated for a 5gallon tank. A lot of times it is trial and error you want to have enough air flowing that the detritus is being picked up. Because you have a small tank, a typical air pump will probably be sufficient. You might want to invest in an inline air valve so you can control how much air is flowing through. I generally go with a more powerful pump than what I think I will need, because it's easier to tune the air down if it's too much.

Maintenance of the sponge filter can be a little tricky. You want to remove the sponge from the tank without dripping too much of what is being caught in the sponge back into the tank. You can use a container and pull off the airline tubing while the filter is in the container. Also after long use, there will be biofilm/gunk buildup that blocks proper airflow, and you might want to clean the plastic parts of the filter with a toothbrush.

 

So, I was just introduced into sponge filters myself, through this website actually! A sponge filter would definitely be my choice for any kind of small fish because it doesn't have a strong current. I ordered my air pump of Amazon for $17 and it also came with the supplies. I've not heard of any common issues with sponge filters and I've never had any. The instructions do say to be sure and keep the air pump higher up then the filter. I attached mine to the top of the tank and it's been working perfectly. The filter I bought doesn't have an option to turn the bubbles up or down. However, I've heard from some others on this website that you can get a something to attach onto your hose to turn the pressure up/down. You'll have to research that though. The filter I have works great just how it came, so I never bought anything extra. I hoped this helped

 

Hi everyone,

I'm planning on setting up a sponge filter for a 5 gallon low-tech planted betta tank. I've always used HOB filters, but in my last Fluval tank thought it created too much turbulence for the betta. I understand the concept and that the sponge filter is connected to an air pump. Are there any technical issues I should be aware of? For example, how brisk does the bubbling need to be to generate adequate filtration? Since I've never used a sponge filter before, any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

Sponge filters are very simple and about all I use anymore, size the filter per manufacture specs per gallon, because the uplift tube will the be the right size for moving the correct amount of water thru the filter. If enough air is filling the tube for you to see water moving up that's about all you need to know, then adjust to your liking for turbulence. I like lots of air personally. 2nd consideration is, I run two in every tank and clean one for maintenance during water changes and follow up on the other next week.
I squish them out with the water I remove during water changes so they are cleaned in the exact water type they have been operating in because accidental cleaning in chlorinated or different temperature water risks destroying your good bacteria, so your second filter continues on undisturbed. I run a central air system for multiple tanks. Easy to maintain and doesn't take too much time and my risk of having a infestation across multiple tanks is very low. Love sponge filters and they can be combined with canister filters or any other type pretty much and you won't lose babies in your filters.

 

What you will need to run a sponge filter is of course the filter and an air pump. Just about any air pump will work for operating one sponge filter.

Second you need a check valve. This prevents water flowing back through the pump should you lose power. As long as the pump is sitting above the water line that won't happen but with a check valve the air pump can be set anywhere convenient. Be sure to blow through it and you will see that air will only go in one direction.. Be sure to install it in the right direction for the air flow.

Airline (AL) of course, a T connector and 2 control valves. one to control the amount of air going to the filter and one for a bleed off to make sure there is no back pressure on the air pump.

It sounds complicated but is in fact pretty simple and straight forward.

It all goes in this order: Air pump-3 or 4 inch piece of AL tubing-check valve-3 or 4 inch piece of AL tubing-T connector- short piece of AL tubing on one side of T connector with one control valve on the other end-AL tubing long enough to reach top of tank on the other side of T connector with other control valve on the top end-AL tubing long enough to reach down into tank attached to the other side of the control valve and the other end attached to sponge filter.

The 2 control valves will allow you to fine tune exactly how much air ends up going to the sponge filter without creating any back pressure on your air pump.

List of things needed:
Air Pump
Airline tubing
Sponge filter
Check valve
T connector
2 Control valves