Need a new Filter...???

[maites]

Hello all. I am brand new to this forum and already have an important question. I have the 54 gallon corner tank setup and just started it with saltwater for the first time. Of course my 35 year old hand me down (from my dad) eheim classic canister filter finally blew out. It had worked like a charm over the past 10 years while my tank was running with the freshwater setup. Anyhow, a buddy of mine gave me a fluval 403 a while back (I would have to buy all the tubing, intake, spray bar) and I'm not sure if its worth it to go buy those things and run his filter (8 yrs old) or go buy a new eheim 2213 ($80) and call it a day. My tank does not have fish in it yet but I do have live rock in there now curing. I am not planning on running a skimmer nor am I planning on doing any live corals for the time being. What do you guys think in terms of filters? Is there a better option? Would you go with one of those? I am going to have to pick one up asap since the live rock is now sitting in a still tank. And, I was damn near close to being ready for my first fish!

Thanks for taking a look and I appreciate any input! I am glad to be a part of this forum!

- Mike

 

[patsfan1130]

I wouldnt bother with the fluval. It's not a requirement on marine tanks. They are good for polishing water, additional flow and running media such as GAC. The live rock will be your main source of filtration. I recommend you reconsider your decision to go skimmerless. IMO a skimmer is an essential piece of equipment for a marine tank.

 

[maites]

Should I go with the eheim?

Skimmer- the issue is that i do not have an overflow in the tank. Since it is a corner tank, I want to keep it as close to the wall as possible. I have heard about the prizm skimmer but heard its not so great. If i put one underneath the tank, then I have to buy this whole shutoff system for if the power goes out (thats what I have been told). Let me know if any ideas on that as well

 

[patsfan1130]

If your tank is not RR then I suggest an external overflow box (Lifereef is a very reliable brand and I have never seen one fail). this will allow you to add a sump (extra water volume for more stability), potential for a refugium and a place to house equipment such as a skimmer Finding the right size vessal to use as a sump may be a bit tricky for a corner tank but anything can work (rubbermaid tote for example) It's a no brainer IMO