Best filter 170 gallon

[Tipton34]

What would yall suggest filter wise for a 170 gallon freshwater tank. Money is an issue

 

[HUKIT]

I would recommend 2 Fluval FX5's, which can be purchased for around $440 shipped. This would meet and exceed your requirements for filtration in that sized tank.

 

[Tipton34]

Ya but being a college student, thats way too high. What about one or another brand?

 

[HUKIT]

That sized tank unless very lightly stocked with require alot of filtration and IMO one will not be sufficient, I'm sorry but it's a expensive hobby when you start getting into the larger set ups.

A FX5 with media turns over around 600gph and with substrate and decor that will turn your tank over around 3-4x per hour, this applies to other comparable filters in the same category.

 

[Link119]

You could probably diy a few canisters. Half of the cost of each canister would probably be from the pump, the media can be cheap, and the canister itself must be a good one (meaning thats gonna cost you a bit to find a good one).

 

[Tipton34]

Would it be better to build a sump for it? I guess the only expensive part would be an overflow and return pump. I can cut glass myself and I have plenty of left over glass.