Freshwater filter suggestions

[daveverdo]

Any suggestions for a filter for a 14g freshwater hex tank? Is there any consensus on which is most effective or easy to use?

Need to buy some equipment for a gift (filter, heater, ...)

Thanks,
Dave

 

[der_wille_zur_macht]

What will the livestock be? That'll really determine it. There are lotsa different ways to attack FW.

 

[Tonynlo]

I always used marineland bio wheels on my cichlid tanks. They are a pain to prime if you are a novice but certainly an effective filter, espescially if you plan to run media.

 

[teamdulski]

I always used marineland bio wheels on my cichlid tanks. They are a pain to prime if you are a novice but certainly an effective filter, espescially if you plan to run media.

This is what I always recommended but, with the 14 hex the sides are too narrow to be able to fit a biowheel of a nice size, if you could find someone getting rid of a small canister filter (marineland or fluval) you'd be set.

 

[block head]

f water is pretty easy IMO. anything + a python for big arse w/c.

 

[der_wille_zur_macht]

anything + a python for big arse w/c.

This would probably be my approach, unless the stock list was heavy or really dirty. Even one of those little foam airlift deals would probably be fine, assuming water changes once in a while.

 

[mr86mister]

Aquaclear 50 would be good for a HOB filter. I love the basket and it's easy to modify. Even with freshwater I like to get a slightly larger than recommended filtration for a system. My 20L Planted I have an AquaClear 70, just turned down to the lowest setting. I also run an AquaClear 20 on my daughters 10 gallon Paly tank. Great filtration with a ability to change amount of flow is what I always look at. If not, a great canister filter is always the way to go if you have the room.

 

[daveverdo]

Thanks everyone. Looks like an Aquaclear is the highest rated that can fit on this tank.

Thanks
David

 

[zooman72]

I am a big Aquaclear and Tetra Whisper fan myself - either one would be good, so it looks like you made the right choice!

 

[MD Ocean Girl]

Aquaclear filters are awesome...they are easy to modify. If you're looking for a canister filter, eheim is the way to go. I'd definitely recommend getting a filter that is rated for more than your tank size....the more filtration you have, the easier it is to take care of the tank. I have two freshwater tanks myself, and I've learned that lesson the hard way....