Hello all!

[MommaLoock]

Hello to everyone! We just found a 29gallon tank with stand at a garage sale for $25. I knew it would take a bit to get it going, but I never imagined I'd be close to an extra $100 to get it set up. All it came with was the gravel which is pretty cool, parts of an undergravel filter, a broken pump, and a 50w heater. So now I'm trying to decide which is better and honestly less expensive to filter and aerate a freshwater tank properly. Do you need an air pump either way with an undergravel or power filter? I'm really looking forward to having a fish tank again, and the boys are super excited to get their fish, and I want to do everything right. Last time we killed about $60 worth of fish before we got it right. Thanks in advance and I look forward to learning from all of you!

 

[shellyx]

Hi, welcome to the forum no you don't need an air pump with your filter, I use to have one running in my tank but the noise drove me mad lol now it's just my quiet filter

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[zasz1234]

Welcome Momma!

With an undergravel filter an air pump is necessary for it to work. With a hang on back power filter if it has decent flow you most likely won't need the air pump for extra aeration.

You're least expensive option is a power filter. They're easy to set up and use and can give you all he filtration you need for a 29. Get one hat can cycle all the water in your aquarium 2-3 times an hour. Good luck on your setup!

 

[shellyx]

Sorry! I didn't read it correct thought you were referring to a airstone. Thanks for correcting me Z.

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[Slade]

Toss the underground filter and look into either this sunsun canister:

New 3 Stage 265GPH External Aquarium Canister Filter 75 Gallon Tank Kit HW 302 | eBay

Or this Hang on back

Aquaclear 70 Power Filter

 

[MommaLoock]

Thanks everyone! I've decided to go with the power filter and a small air pump to run up to two decorations for the kids to enjoy. I've had an undergravel filter before and talk about tedious, but it was also a 75 gallon tank. I think the 29 is a better way to get started again

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[melosu58]

Welcome aboard. We are glad you found us here at AA.

 

[MommaLoock]

Thank you!

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