Filters??

[cfposi]

Hi there, I just got a 20 Gallon tank and it came with a power filter and a heater. I was doing some searching and I found that there exists submersible internal filters as well. Are these any good? Which are better? The model I am looking at is the Hydor EKIP 350 Thermofilter 100W 125 GPH. Info at http://www.aquariumguys.com/hydorekip1.html

Please let me know what is best, keep the old, or get the new. Also, what are the benefits?

Thanks,

Greg

[gottahavepets]

What fish are you planning to put in your tank? Sponge filters need to be cleaned more often than hang on filters. I'm guessing your aquarium came with an aqua-clear model. I have the 50 or 200 model, it is a very good filter for a twenty gal tank. needs monthly maintenence which is easier to do and disturbs the residents of the tank less. Reaching in to clean the submersible will disturb your fish as you don't clean the filter at the same time you change the water and clean the gravel. My advice would be to stick with the one that came with the tank and do some more research before changing to a new filter. Sorry this is so long but I don't want you to make the same mistakes I made with my fish tanks. With fish simpler is often better. If the heater in the submersible went haywire the tank would be out both a filter and a heater. Your call ultimately though. Good luck with your fish tank. {Please don't rush introducing fish, big mistake}

[dodo]

AC are good for 20 gallons.You dont need to use other filters.What fish are you planning to put?

[Sneaky]

Personally,
I wouldnt waste your money on one of those
internal filters there.
If you have an Aquaclear Filter, they are alright filters,
but there are many better. Cascade for one, makes a
superior hang on filter, so does Penguin/Emperor.
If you want top quality filtration though, nothing can
beat a canister filter. For canisters, the top of the line
ones are
#1: Eheim Canisters
#2: Rena XP series Canisters

Hagens Fluval series canisters are also good, a 104 or 204 would be
excellent on a tank that size and keep it crystal clear.
Canisters are also low maintenance, only requiring cleaning every 1-3 months.

[dodo]

That 20 gallon is going to cost a lot with a cannister......lol

What types of fish are you planning?

[Sneaky]

Dodo,
a canister filter can be purchased
for not much more than that
internal filter he has chosen up there.
A fluval 104 or rena xp filter will run you
about 60.00, but will do the work of
6 Aquaclear 200 filters.