Canister or HOB??

[Damsel7]

Starting a 55 gal tank. Will be the biggest tank I have set up. I have always used HOB filters but am considering a canister. Any advice or help would be appreciated.

 

[mcgyvr]

Neither...
IMO "natural" methods like relying on/creating sufficient bacterial populations and otther natural consumers is better than any mechanical filtration..
Mechanical filters are almost useless in this hobby unless cleaned almost daily..

Rock/sand of sufficient quantities allows tons of surface area for all the bacteria on would need..

 

[OldReefGuy]

IMO, Canister over HOB as it will be more quieter and you wont have to see it. I would look at the Hydor Pro as they are super quiet. And keep up with your maintenance watch the nitrates and you are OK. Surprised the Canister police hasn't jumped on this thread yet, LOL.

 

[humphreyhh]

I heavily rely on natural bio filters (live rock, etc.). I have a hob but only have sponge in it.the use of it is for the surface. I have minimal bio load though.


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[OldReefGuy]

I'm not belaying use of LR,as I have a ton in my mixed reef.
Also, OP what you keeping in that tank?

 

[Roy Arena]

Take a look at the Tunze 3162 or 3168. They use very little power and are inside the tank. They are silent. You can also connect the osmolator for your top off water.

 

[Damsel7]

Will have live rock. Not really sure about what else yet.

 

[Akram]

You should get a HOB skimmer, and a couple of powerhead to keep the water agitated.

That’s just what I would do.

 

[nereefpat]

55 is just getting into the display size where a sump makes sense, in my opinion.

If going sumpless, I too would vote for neither. Powerheads and live rock...and if you can find a decent h.o.t. skimmer, that's fine, but not an absolute necessity.

 

[Damsel7]

I am starting to think no on the canister. Maybe just a simple HOB until everything is well established?

 

[Akram]

If you go with the hob filter, just switch out the pad weekly or as soon as it turns brown. Otherwise, just don’t even put one since that gunk will be in your water anyways.

 

[Fourstars]

I vote neither.