New Filtration System Questions

[jmcclain]

I'm new here, but not new to aquariums - although I admit that I'm not into the fine, fine details of aquariums... I've had a 29 gallon freshwater aquarium for about 8 years now. I have an Eclipse filtration system that uses a bio wheel with carbon cartridges. Lately, I have spent too much time maintaining the filtration system due to noise, clogs, bio-wheel problems or other problems. In addition, I'm not happy with the level of filtration (cloudy water...).

My tank right now is pretty bare (3 fish no plants), but I would like to change that by adding some plants along with getting a proper mixture of fish.

I've been reading about canister filters. Price is not a big issue, so I'm considering an Eheim 2026/2126 (w/heater). The question I'm looking for help with is whether I need any additional filtration, powerheads or a bio-wheel unit (ugh...). Any advice on any additional equipment that I should consider would be appreciated.

 

[rich311k]

If you go with the 2026 you will have over 8.5 gallon an hour turn over. You will not need any additional filtering. The added bonus of a cannister if you decide to add CO2 in the future, cannisters are the perfect filter for that. Little or no surface agitation.

 

[jmcclain]

I think I'll go with the Eheim 2126. It looks like the $183 deal on Dr Fosters is pretty good?

Should I look for anything special in terms of the packaging? I know that one poster mentioned this elsewhere...

 

[FishFingers]

Go for the pack thats included with the special deal. Usually it fills the canister completely but it contains a lot of carbon pads (well mine did). So buy some more Substrat pro (re-usable) and keep the pads for removing meds from your tank.

I have 2 Eheims (2022 and 2128 pro 2 thermo) and I love em. So quiet.

Good luck.