filtration for a 55 gallon

[doctawife]

As some of ya'll may have noticed from posts in other sections, I'm getting ready to set up a 55 gallon. The tank will be the largest I've ever had, and is probably the largest my 900 square-foot apartment can accomodate.

So, do I stick with HOB filtration or change to canaster filtration? I am planning on putting my Eheim Aquaball in the new aquarium (since the 29 gallon will be temporarily retired to the storage area) and I definitely believe in overfiltration. The other problem is that I have to get as much bang for my buck as possible. I also need the most convenient option - I'm still spending every fourth night in the hospital (since I'm a pediatric resident) and I don't have a huge amount of free time.

Suggestions definitely appreciated!

 

[1979camaro]

I like my fluval 304 and i know others have had great success wtih this filter as well. i would say go for a canister on a 55, but thats just me...im sure others will argue otherwise

 

[CoronaFan023]

I have 2 penguin biowheel 330 hob filters on my 55. It's crystal clear They are pretty cheap if you buy them online. I got 2 at petsmart.com for 22 bucks each and at the petsmart store they are 45 bucks. I have never had a canister, but I hear good things about them. Its really a matter of preference as long as they provide a good gph rate.

 

[FiSh15]

on one of my 55 gal i have an azoo 1200 canister filter with a penguin 170 biowheel. the water is really clear. i dont even think i need the penguin filter there but i have it so might as well use it. on my other 55 gal i have this really long overhead wet/dry filter on it. its 4 feet long the same length as the tank by about 5 inches wide. there's 2 rows of stackable trays where you could put filter media. it is also really easy to change media as opposed to my canister. this kicks butt. the water is crystal clear. it was kinda costly but i think it was well worth it. most things are costly here on guam due to shipping. it doesn't have a particular brand name. it was made in taiwan, then again what isn't?

i know this doesn't help much, but i hope you find a right filter for u.

 

[doctawife]

I was thinking about using an Aquaclear 300 and my Eheim Aquaball. The Aquaclear is 'rated' for a 100 gallon tank, but I know the ratings stated on packaging are iffy. I also know that a formula (x number of GPH for x number of gallons) exists, but I forget what it is.

Would the Aquaclear/Aquaball combo give me enough filtration?