Aquarium External Filters

[MatthewH5]

Does anybody have any experience with external (canister) filters on aquariums?

I'm currently trying to decide on a filter for my second tank. I have an Eheim Professional external filter on my main 450L tank which is much easier to maintain than the internals I've had in the past, so I was planning on fitting a similar filter to my second (160L) tank.

I've found a filter (made by Marina - the "budget" brand of Fluval) that appears to be suitable but I've recently read various stories online about external filters leaking and flooding the floor. This is something I'd definitely want to avoid as I've just spent several weeks renovating the room!

Is this a common occurrence or is it mainly due to user error / lack of maintenance? I've heard that lubricating the o-rings with silicone grease every year helps prevent leaks, but I'm unsure whether to just take the safe option and use an internal filter.

Thanks.

[Turn7]

Eheim.

End of discussion.

All others are rubbish in comparison.

[Turn7]

Buy used Eheim over new cheap tatt, keep the filter in an enclosed unit, like those plastic underbed boxes - just in case of leaks.

If an Eheim does leak, its usually because the lid seal is old and has gone hard.

Eheim spares are readily available and sensibly priced.

[Mark300zx]

As above completely agree, if you put some inline taps into the hose you can use it to vacuum the gravel!

[paintman]

Eheim here too!
Inline double taps on both lines makes servicing a doddle.

Edited by paintman on Saturday 10th February 11:24

[marksx]

I had an APS budget filter on my tank that was great.

Also a Tetra ex 1200. I got this cheap, had heard stories of these leaking, but never had an issue.

Always wanted an FX6 to replace them both though.

Edit -also used inline taps as vacuum, and drain hoses for water changes. I pipe it through the wall!

[MatthewH5]

Thanks - it seems Eheim is the best then as suspected. I already have the Professional 3 2075 model but these cost £200+ new so I was considering other options. I'll check if there are any used ones locally.

I was hoping the Marina branded filter would be reliable as Fluval seem to have a decent reputation! I can't find many reviews of this specific filter online.

[Turn7]

Pro2 2028's go for around £60-70 used on ebay...

[Boosted LS1]

And when you clean the filter cartridge stand it in a washing up bowl. That'll protect your carpet :-)

[jackthelad1984]

I use a Fluval 206 on my main tank, got it second hand with the tank, had no issues with it. Easy to clean, quiet, no leaks etc. Also have a small eheim internal filter on a smaller tank that also has no issues.

[Oakey]

I have a 206, it's st. Aquastop has started leaking within 18months and despite it being a couple of rubber seals that need replacing you have to buy an entire new Aquastop which is either £20 (if you can even find an Aquastop sold on it's own anywhere) or £50 if you buy it as part of a package full of bits you don't need (which, unsurprisingly, is what most places stock). The entire thing only cost £85! Currently considering replacing it with an Oase.

[addz86]

I’ve got a fluval 306 on a 240ltr tank and can’t fault it so far, only had it since last July but does a good job and easy to clean