Changing filters....got a questions

[NewFishGuy]

Hey everyone. I am gonna be switching the filter on my 10 gal fw setup. I currently have a HOB that is made for a maximum of 10 gal (it came in a box with the tank.) I am wanting to switch to a bio wheel setup. Any suggestions? I am thinking something that will handle, say, 30 gal even though I only have a 10 gal tank.

What you think?

Another big thing is what should I do BEFORE switching out the filters? I am imagining I will have another cycle since the new filter will not have any biological filtration. Can I run this filter in a bucket for 2-3 weeks with something to help set-up some biological "friends" on the bio wheel? Should I run both filters on the tank for a while to do this? Or should I just sya my fish-friends are in for a couple weeks of hell on their gills (I REALLY don't like this option.)

Throw some ideas at me if you would

[Fishyfanatic]

Run both filters at the same time for a couple weeks. The bio-wheel is a great idea. If you run them both until you have enough beneficial bacteria, you won't go through a cycle. I recommend a month. But again, I am cautious when it comes to my fish.

[FishLover14]

I assume your bio wheel filter is the Penguin Mini, if so GREAT choice, and juts like Fishfiantic said run them boht for about 1 month together the nremove the old one.

HTH

[NewFishGuy]

Very close FishLover14. I was actually thinking of the Penguin 150....will work for up to 30 gal tank.

This brings up another question. Is there a problem with getting a filter that is TOO big for the tank. I know if I get a filter for a 200 gal tank it is gonna be WAY too much water flow. But what about one for up too 50 gal. Or even the one I am looking at which is for up to 30 gal.

[czcz]

Gourami might not like it as its a labrynith fish and I believe much flow from biowheel will distrub surface too much. With other fish it seems there's no such thing as too much water flow (hillstream loach, for example).

FWIW, when I changed my biological filtration method I just floated old media for two days with no cycle in a similarly sized tank. This was in a planted tank though. I only mean to state that surely the advice you've been given will allow bacteria colony to survive the change.

[krap101]

you could just toss the filter cartridge in... wont look very nice though