Filter for a 5 gallon

[rossmort]

A while back I got a 5 gallon kit aquarium that had the filter and hood and all that good stuff all together. The filter that is running right now is a "Whisper 2-5" and I really hate it. I don't think it does a good job at all for filtering so I think its about time to upgrade for the little fishies. I was wondering everyone's opinions on Aquaclear filters versus Penguin. I would probably run a Bio-Wheel 125 or a AquaClear 200 (Same price online). I know they are both probably overkill but I was thinking that when I set up my 125g I can thow it on for polishing or something and use the 5 for fry.

Any other filters can be thrown into the mix also!
Looking at: (The 2 mentioned PLUS)
Eheim Liberty Filter 150
Penn Plax Cascade 150


Thanks in advance!

 

[AdamsZoological]

Personally, AquaClear, bar none, I've used both types for a long time, and find that AquaClear are by far, the best HOB filter on the market, you cant beat their capabilites, and their life, the things never die.

 

[rossmort]

Thanks for the quick reply! I just sat down and looked at the water in my tank and said decided I needed to get on the ball for that thing. Good to hear about the AquaClear, 'specially since they are cheap!

Thanks

 

[AdamsZoological]

Yep, you cant get much cheaper, and like I said, I feel, for average sized tanks, they are the best, I've yet to see another HOB that rivals them

 

[rossmort]

Do you think that a AC200 would be too much flow for a 5 gallon? I have a betta, a leapord pleco, and 2 cory's

 

[AdamsZoological]

Might be a bit strong, I'd go with a Mini, or 150...besides, saves you a bit extra cash too

 

[Guest]

I'm a big fan of the Aqua Clears...I've tried them all..

 

[AdamsZoological]

Great filters, they've definately made a classic. The basics of them havent changed in 20 years, and no one has come up with a simpler, yet so effectvive of a design

 

[rossmort]

Might be a bit strong, I'd go with a Mini, or 150...besides, saves you a bit extra cash too

Yeah, I guess it is just hard for me not to spend the 50 cents to upgrade from the 150 to the 200

 

[AdamsZoological]

lol didnt realize they were that close where you were getting them. Well, that aside, would probably be a hit better for that size tank.

 

[Guest]

I'm a big fan of the Aqua Clears...I've tried them all..

 

[AdamsZoological]

See? Thats 3 votes for AquaClear tonight

 

[rossmort]

Yup, I will go with one, I just can't seem to find dimesions on the filters. I see that I can decrease the flow for the 200 down to 33% so I would like to get that one BUT I want to make sure it isn't too big.

 

[AdamsZoological]

Actually, a decreased flow on the 200 would probably work, never thought of that

 

[rossmort]

Does changing the flow like that stress the motor?

 

[AdamsZoological]

Nah, they do fine that way, wont strain on the motor at all

 

[rossmort]

I really wish sites had dimensions on their products. so annoying not being able to find out how big the thing is!

 

[AdamsZoological]

How much space you have to fit it in?

 

[rossmort]

Probably 6 inches but if it was that it would be dominating! I am curious how deep it is because that would make me have to pull the aquarium out to fit it if it is more than 3" which I bet it is.

 

[AdamsZoological]

I think its about 4" deep, so, if you only have about 3" in depth until you have to move it, chances are, you'll need to