Top fin filter flow rate and electricity

Hello everyone,

So, TopFin silent stream filter has an adjustable flow rate option. My question is, by adjusting the knob, does it adjust the power/electricity use to the impeller (causing it to spin slower), or does it uses the same amount of energy and only restrict water flow through a smaller opening?

I only ask because I have a filter that filters at 400gph but I only need 200gph. I would rather use less energy/electricity than I have to.

 

I dont know that type of filter but i’d assume the latter option was correct.

 

I use 2 models of Silenstream filters.

Their rate of electricity use is fixed. The flow control knob only restricts the intake tube when turned.

The only filter that uses less electricity when flow is turned down are certain models of Eheim canisters.

I think my Silenstream 20 filter uses around 6-7 watts while the 75 model uses around 12-14 watts if I remember correctly.

I think you have the larger 75 model like I have with the side-by-side reservoirs. Even if you run it with the flow turned down half way, it's reservoirs can surprisingly hold a lot of media compared to most HOB style filters.

If it uses 14w of power, that's about $1/month to run.

If you bought a filter that uses half the power, it would save you $6/year. But if the new filter cost $24, it would take 4 years to break even to cover the expense of the new filter.

If you live in a country where it costs considerably more for electricity that in the States, then you might get a return on the investment of a new filter a little quicker.

 

I dont know that type of filter but i’d assume the latter option was correct.

Looking at the filter, this is what I am thinking. I believe you are right.

I use 2 models of Silenstream filters.

Their rate of electricity use is fixed. The flow control knob only restricts the intake tube when turned.

The only filter that uses less electricity when flow is turned down are certain models of Eheim canisters.

I think my Silenstream 20 filter uses around 6-7 watts while the 75 model uses around 12-14 watts if I remember correctly.

I think you have the larger 75 model like I have with the side-by-side reservoirs. Even if you run it with the flow turned down half way, it's reservoirs can surprisingly hold a lot of media compared to most HOB style filters.

If it uses 14w of power, that's about $1/month to run.

If you bought a filter that uses half the power, it would save you $6/year. But if the new filter cost $24, it would take 4 years to break even to cover the expense of the new filter.

If you live in a country where it costs considerably more for electricity that in the States, then you might get a return on the investment of a new filter a little quicker.

Wow! You just answered all of my questions! Thank you so much for the detailed information. I’m really enjoying this filter because, like you said, it holds some much media! My previous filter has always been the Aqueon filter, and that one is really quiet. This top fin silentstream 75 makes a little bit of noise.

 

Here is a link to a thread on the forum that might interest you...

Diy Media Guide For Top Fin Silenstream, Aquaclear And Other Hob Filters | Aquarium Filter Forum | 385506

I think towards the last couple of pages there are some pics of your model of filter.

Mine has been running for around 2 years with no issues.