Proteus55
Aquarium Advice Apprentice
I realize there are a million possible answers to this age-old question and that the subject of filters is very subjective. However, I have been diligent in my research and have basically come around to several possibilities: Eheim 2215, Eheim 2217, Ecco 2236 or--against my better instincts--an Aqua-Clear 500. My tank is a 55, will contain no real plants, will be a community tank (barbs, tetra, etc.) and will be in a living room. Currently, I have an old 20 year old Penguin 330 biowheel on a 37 which is great but noisy (rattling impeller. I really would want the Ecco 22366 for the ease of operation and maintenance, but some have said it is rated too low at 80 gallon and 164 gph flow; also, I have heard horror stories about the handle breaking and flow rate gradually diminishing over time. Everyone seems to love the Eheim 2217, but it looks like overkill at a rated size for up to 165. The 2215 looks right, but some have said "you need to go way above the tank ratings." Also, I have never had a canister before (though I date back to the 60s and slate-bottomed tanks, metal frames, and Dyna-flow filters). Plus, this will be on a carpeted floor, and I don't know if I want to risk leaks. Now, the Aqua-clear 500--rated for up to 110 gallons and 500 gph looks great on paper, but I have heard it is a little noisy, backs up, won't restart after a power failure, could back up and spill water, and my wife wants quiet. Anyway, any suggestions based on experience would be helpful. I am new to this forum but have a lifetime of interest.
