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External filter recommendations
Posted: Thu May 15, 2025 2:56 pm
by Nimblox
Looking for a solid external filter for my 55 gallon planted tank. Need something quiet, reliable, and easy to maintain. Budget's around $200. What's everyone using these days?
Re: External filter recommendations
Posted: Thu May 15, 2025 3:41 pm
by barbsforlife
Dude, just grab a Fluval 407. It's kinda pricey but worth it. My barbs love the flow, and it's dead silent. Plus, you can mess with the media baskets however you want.
Re: External filter recommendations
Posted: Thu May 15, 2025 4:06 pm
by armoredfish
The Fluval 407 is a good choice, but if you're looking for something with more customization, check out the Oase Biomaster Thermo. It's got a built-in heater, which saves space, and the pre-filter is super easy to clean. I've had mine running for two years with zero issues.
Re: External filter recommendations
Posted: Thu May 15, 2025 4:42 pm
by stormer99
armoredfish wrote: ↑Thu May 15, 2025 4:06 pm
The Fluval 407 is a good choice, but if you're looking for something with more customization, check out the Oase Biomaster Thermo. It's got a built-in heater, which saves space, and the pre-filter is super easy to clean. I've had mine running for two years with zero issues.
I second the Oase recommendation. The heater integration is a game-changer, especially if you're tight on space. Just make sure to clean the pre-filter weekly to avoid clogging.
Re: External filter recommendations
Posted: Thu May 15, 2025 5:40 pm
by Nimblox
Thanks for the suggestions. Leaning toward the Oase now. How's the noise level compared to the Fluval?
Re: External filter recommendations
Posted: Thu May 15, 2025 6:15 pm
by barbsforlife
Oase is chill, but Fluval's quieter in my experience. Then again, my tank's in my bedroom, so I'm picky about noise. Either way, you can't go wrong.
Re: External filter recommendations
Posted: Thu May 15, 2025 6:36 pm
by armoredfish
The Oase is pretty quiet, but it's not silent. If noise is a big concern, you might wanna stick with the Fluval. Both are solid, though.
Re: External filter recommendations
Posted: Thu May 15, 2025 6:42 pm
by stormer99
Another option is the Eheim Classic. It's not as fancy, but it's bulletproof and whisper-quiet. I've had one running for five years with no problems. Just gotta clean the impeller every few months.
Re: External filter recommendations
Posted: Thu May 15, 2025 7:20 pm
by barbsforlife
stormer99 wrote: ↑Thu May 15, 2025 6:42 pm
Another option is the Eheim Classic. It's not as fancy, but it's bulletproof and whisper-quiet. I've had one running for five years with no problems. Just gotta clean the impeller every few months.
Yeah, Eheim's a classic for a reason. Super reliable, just kinda a pain to open up for maintenance.
Re: External filter recommendations
Posted: Thu May 15, 2025 7:38 pm
by armoredfish
True, Eheim's are tanks, but the media baskets are tiny compared to the Oase or Fluval. If you're running a planted tank with heavy bio-load, you might outgrow it fast.