Canister filters
Canister filters are often sold by many
dealers as the next step up and as being
superior to in-tank and hang-on-the-back
filters for several reasons. They can
be placed below or slightly away from
the aquarium itself; they typically have
far more filter surface area and greater
flow rates; and they are easy to set
up, without the custom plumbing required
by other beneath-the-tank systems.
Bigger and better canister filters continue
to be invented, but be wary of simply
swallowing the claims and performance
of any one model or brand. Personal endorsements
by aquarist friends or store personnel
you trust should be given more weight
than advertising claims.
In particular, I caution you to check
on the cost of media and efficiency of
flow and volume of water produced per
unit of energy consumed. As usual, the
best and most reliable source of information
is your fellow hobbyists. Ask around,
and check the electronic bulletin boards
on your on-line service and Internet
interest groups. There is a huge disparity
in terms of electrical use, pump life,
ease of maintenance, and noise production. The better canister units are silent and consume only a few watts per
hour, and incorporate
large, three-dimensional
volumes of media. These require attention
only for cleaning - every few weeks
to once a month or so. Cleaning should
be facilitated with the use of on/off
valves with or without quick disconnects.
These adjuncts make the take-down and
restarting process much simpler.
|
Pressure Filters
Pressure
filters are canister-type units that
force water through
pleated paper cartridges
or other media, and they can really “polish” your
water while inflating your electrical bills.
Be careful to check the pump or motor rating
for energy consumption and to set up and
maintain your unit as recommended. For small
to intermediate home systems (under a few
hundred gallons), pressurized filters are
best for periodic use, such as cleaning and
gravel vacuuming. Remember to flush them
out when you are done, so they don’t
become anaerobic when idle.
Huge
aquariums with heavy bio-loads usually
stocked with large, big-eater livestock - may
do well with a pressurized filter plumbed
into the filtration loop. They rapidly
clear the water after feeding and cleaning,
but
be aware of their costs of operation and
need for regular maintenance. (Filter cartridge
do a wonderful job, but can clog rapidly
and are a chore... contact us for more info. |
