Filtration - Internal or External

[ridgewalker]

I'm setting up a new mbuna tank which is 4ft long about 55g. Has anybody got any filter recommendations?

Previously I have always used internal fluval filters but I am swaying towards the external filter as the mbuna tank needs greater filtration due to higher stocking levels.
External filtration seems to be more complex with the need to change the filtration media, so running costs appear higher, as well as the additional purchase cost. I have also seen mixed reports about the external fluval filters and previous recommendations for Eheim's.
Is it necessary to regularly replace the filter media?

 

[Purple]

nah - you just need to clean it once a month or so - maybe not even that often - depends on the set-up

a F204 will do nicely on your tank - get some foam blocks for the bottom baskets - then you can clean them and re-use the same foam - the ceramic hoops that come with it are great, and hardly need cleaning at all

Eheims are probably better - it's just a price issue

 

[jclif1995]

i'd suggest either to canisters or a canister and a HOB filter. The Eheim pro II has a flow indicator and a rather impressive amount of bio-media capacity.

 

[TaffyFish]

Definitely get a canister to handle all that mbuna waste.

Which canister you get will depend on your own value for money reckoning. You don't need to change filter media for many years, perhaps only the fine filter wool if it refuses to rinse clean, use of carbon is another subect.

Don't see many HOBs in the UK so that's probably not an option.

 

[ridgewalker]

OK Thanks!

I'll check out some prices on the Eheim's to see what deals are about. I have also seen the F304 for sub £80 including media so may go for that to get a decent flow rate.

Thanks for the advice.