I have a very basic filtration set up..A whisper 30-60 gallon filter..the kind you hang off the tank and uses the cartridges. I do weekly 50% water changes, which keeps the aquarium clean. I also clean one of the cartridges once a week always rotating which one I wash as to not completely destroy the bacteria. I do plan on updating my current filtration system, but I was waiting to upgrade to 100+ within the next year. My question is can I just add a bio -wheel into my filter sitting behind the cartridge filters? In a way that the water was still causing rotation. Would it be effective, at least until I can up grade? Leo(My oscar) is growing rapidly and in good health. Tank parameters are also consistently within limits. Any advice on adequate filtration for a 55 gallon is appreciated.
Thanks

since your planning on upgrading your tank in the near future i would recommend getting a canister now and have it seeded so when your new tank arrives it will eliminate the cycling process,
since you have a 55 now and plan on upgrading to a 100 my advice would be to get yourself a fluval 405. this in conjuction with your hob should be sufficent to filter your larger tank when it arrives.

I really need to read up on canister filters, My knowledge is very limited on these. I'll have to research canister filters in greater detail. Fluval 405...I'll look into that right now.
Thanks

necromancer4 wrote:


X2 canisters are far better.

I just went through this exact situation - I had a HOB on a 55 gal and upgraded to a canister (I selected the Eheim Pro3). I'm now running a canister that has 450 gallons an hour flow and you wouldn't believe the difference.... the canister is silent and keeps the water crystal clear. Hopefully you won't make the same mistake I did - I changed the filter out without saving any medium from the old filter or running them in tandem. As a result, I lost 3 of my silver dollars because of the shock. So - either run them in tandem or save some medium.

Both very sound advice, Yes I took into account the filter media and decided when I upgrade to a Canister I will keep the HOB filter installed and run them in unison. Now I am just researching the best Canister filter to get. Fluval, Eheim, or Penguin. More researching now. Thanks for all of your advice I find it invaluable.

I just upgraded to a 100gal tank for a 50. For the 50 I used a fluval 304. When I bought the 100 it came with an aquaclear 110. So I use both on my 100 now. I would either buy the 405 or Fx5. The Fx5 being the best.

Well I decided on C-530 Canister Filter by Marineland and a HOB Marineland Emperor Bio-Wheel 400 Power Filter. I'll use them in unison. I think this will satisfy my needs now and I'll then transfer this system over to my larger aquarium when I get it. I think I'll stick to Marineland for my aquarium needs. They are a sound and innovative company. Thanks for all your input again it's been invaluable

Running them in unison is the smartest thing to do.
When you get your new tank you'll be ready to move your fish and filters at the same time!
And trust me, you're gonna wanna do this when you get your new tank.

Thanks...I am excited about this.