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View Full Version : Best HOB filter?

dbondi
08-22-2010, 03:10 PM
Hey guys im looking to replace a HOB filter on my 55g. Im looking for more flow(mechanical filtration) than bio filtration since my tanks have sponge filters.

I had a Marineland penguin that was given to me, but the motor crapped out. The filter never really impressed the be quite honest.

It seems the aquaclear filters are more reliable and move lots of water.

Ive heard real good things about the marinelands. Should I give them another shot?Whats the difference between the Marineland emperor and the penguin?


Also at my LFS they have the new Fluval series. I would get the c3. Has anyone tried these? They're a little pricey.
DJRansome
08-22-2010, 03:22 PM
Last 2 HOBs I bought, after comparing, I bought AquaClear.
clayn
08-22-2010, 03:32 PM
Do you have sand in your tank?
dbondi
08-22-2010, 07:27 PM
Do you have sand in your tank?

Nope just carribsea ivory coast blend. Why do you ask?
fischfan13
08-22-2010, 07:38 PM
Don, this is comparing apples and oranges...
AquaClear 110 vs Emperor 400

AC 110 can turn 500 gph.
It can have two AC sponges inserted to get great colonization of beneficial bacteria. It can have a pre-filter attached to the intake for more beneficial bacteria and to prevent fry being sucked up into it.

The Emperor 400 can turn 400 gph.
It has dual bio-wheels that some people believe detoxify ammonia and nitrites and add O2. It is about $35-40 cheaper than an AC 110.

I have had both and like both.
clayn
08-22-2010, 10:34 PM
Sand shortens the life of the impeller. Emperor's impeller sits in a well which collects sand. Aquaclear's impellers do not sit in a well.

I like the Aquaclear 110 as a mechanical filter. Double sponge it and the amount of waste it will collect is incedible.
TwoTankAmin
08-28-2010, 08:25 PM
For mech filtration on not huge tanks consider a HOT Magnum. Run it with the micron cartridge with the blue sleeve added on. If you really want to polish the water, add a couple of tablespoons of diatomaceous earth,
TOMMYN3D
11-28-2010, 01:27 AM
Hey Don, just wondering on which filter did you go with? and how do you like it so far?
nick a
11-29-2010, 09:54 AM
Emperor's impeller sits in a well which collects sand. Aquaclear's impellers do not sit in a well.

Where exactly do they sit?
:whistle:

I have had both and like both.
X2....pros/cons both ways.