Sponge filter questions

[Tsquad]

Hello, I am setting up a new 55gallon tank and want to use a sponge filter on it as I hear they are quieter. I have never used one. My questions are, do I need anything other than the filter and the air pump? Such as extra air hose, or any fittings/valves? Also, what size air pump do I need? Do I need one to match the size of my tank? Or is that not necessary? Anything else I need to know? This is for a community tank with tetras and guppies.

 

[BBradbury]

Sponge Filtration

Hello, I am setting up a new 55gallon tank and want to use a sponge filter on it as I hear they are quieter. I have never used one. My questions are, do I need anything other than the filter and the air pump? Such as extra air hose, or any fittings/valves? Also, what size air pump do I need? Do I need one to match the size of my tank? Or is that not necessary? Anything else I need to know? This is for a community tank with tetras and guppies.

Hello T...

I would set up a dual sponge filter on opposite ends of the tank. Active Aqua has a good air pump. Get some airline tubing to connect everything and you're good do go.

B

 

[tunamanphd]

If your pump will below the tank - install and airline check valve.

 

[Tsquad]

Sounds good. I went with the 60-100 whisper air pump for good measure. Only ordered 1 sponge filter but I did order a t splitter, check valve, and extra air hose as I was thinking about adding an air stone, but I can do another filter too. I’m not sure what I’m putting in the tank other than my 6 white skirts and 4 guppies. Thinking either a bunch more guppies, or a big group of another smaller fish.

 

[tunamanphd]

I would definitely add a second filter vs. an air stone

 

[Tsquad]

Ok, I will order a 2nd sponge filter. I have never used them before, so I wasn’t really sure how many I would need.

 

[tunamanphd]

If interested, I sell them plus many other hobby related items including fish and plants . Send me a Pm

 

[Tsquad]

If interested, I sell them plus many other hobby related items including fish and plants . Send me a Pm

Just finished ordering it from the Aquarium Co-op. That is where I got the first one and I wanted them to match. Sorry :/

 

[Tsquad]

I wouldn’t mind taking a look at your shop though. Ya never know what ya might find lol.

 

[Barliman]

Ok, I will order a 2nd sponge filter. I have never used them before, so I wasn’t really sure how many I would need.

One sponge would probably be enough as far as biological filtration goes (unless you have messy fish like plecostomuses), but I would use two, one in each corner, to give better flow through the tank. Also, make sure you have a check valve on each to prevent backflow in case the power goes out.

 

[Tsquad]

One sponge would probably be enough as far as biological filtration goes (unless you have messy fish like plecostomuses), but I would use two, one in each corner, to give better flow through the tank. Also, make sure you have a check valve on each to prevent backflow in case the power goes out.

Yea I have one in there now, still waiting on the 2nd. The flow on the opposite side of the tank is VERY low. I do have a check valve on the one. Will have to order a 2nd one.