Pre buy/setup filter questions?

[melisphillips]

I would like to know what people suggest for a filtration system for me. I want a 30g tank (that is as big as I can go), fish only (maybe inverts in the far future). My idea is a canister filter and a protein skimmer and maybe live sand??? Please write and give me all of your opinions. I would like to see many different ideas so I can learn more. Thanks!

 

[loganj]

A canister would work in this type system. If you can do it without breaking the bank, a FOwLR (fish only with live rock)tank might prove easier to maintain. You'll need some decent lighting and 30-45lbs of LR. If you can do it that way, all you'll need in the way of filtration is a good skimmer. The LR will serve as your biofilter and the LS will help with it also. You might want to consider a DSB (deep sand bed) too as these, once they mature, will control your nitrate levels.
Logan J

 

[aimeovaldi]

Got to agree with LoganJ about the LR and DSB as well as a GOOD skimmer, this will serve well in bio filtration. If you are as concerned as I am about filtration though, you can also add a hang on filter to assist in filtration. I use a prism skimmer and a skilter filter on mine. It just makes me feel better and I like the sound of the constant moving water.

 

[melisphillips]

Thank you so much! This helps a lot.

 

[reefrunner69]

I'll third the LR and LS as your biofilter with a good skimmer. If your not wanting to do LR (although I highly recommend it...more natural and less stressfull on the fish), a good alternate choice ofr a thirty might be a CPR backpak, skimmer biofilter combo.

 

[melisphillips]

What would be the best protein skimmer for the buck for me? I am on a budget but do want quality products.

 

[reefrunner69]

For a 30g the cheapest (decent) would be the Prism by Red Sea, next would be the CPR bakpak (better...with or without the biomedia), next would be the Aqua-C Remora. All three are HOB models if you plan on going with a sump, well the field just broadens from there.