Filtering Through the Options: Exploring the Differences in Aquarium Filtration Methods
Filtration is commonly referred to as the heart of an aquarium, and we would agree. Running the proper filtration for your aquarium is vital to its functionality and health. Luckily for hobbyists, there are many filtration systems to choose from! Before we jump into the different types of filters, let's break down why you need one in the first place.
Why Your Aquarium Needs Filtration
If the filter is the heart, think of the water as the blood that keeps the aquarium running. Water needs to constantly pass through the filter's media in order for the aquarium to stay clean and keep a constant flow. Stagnant water creates dead space that allows ammonia to build up and decreases the amount of oxygen in the water, whereas moving water allows for nutrients and oxygen to spread throughout your aquarium and support the life inside of it, including beneficial bacteria. With proper filtration, your aquarium’s water should be clear and your inhabitants should thrive.
Hang-on-Back Filter
Hang-on-back filters, or HOBs, are the most common beginner filter and for good reason! These filters do their job well and are simple to set up and install. True to their name, hang-on-back filters hang on the backside of your aquarium. A single pump will pull water into its chamber, through media, and spill back into your aquarium.
HOB’s are most popular because they’re affordable and low maintenance. Some hobbyists prefer other filtration systems over HOB’s due to their unsightly appearance and inability to properly filter large aquariums.
Canister Filter
Canister filters are powerful systems that are small enough to hide in an aquarium stand. These filters also utilize pumps, so they are not completely hidden and need intake and outake pumps to remain in your display. While more pricey than HOBs, canisters are great for larger, livestock heavy aquariums.
If you have an aquarium stand, most times a canister will fit perfectly in it! These systems are easy to clean and give your aquarium a neat look without anything balancing on your glass.
Sump System
Sump systems, our personal favorite, are typically an additional small, glass aquarium installed underneath an aquarium stand. Sumps are large enough to hold many different pieces of equipment such as protein skimmers, algae scrubbers, additional media, and more. With a large enough sump, it can even be utilized to quarantine a feisty fish!
Sump systems are plumbed into the actual aquarium and subsequently cannot be seen from the outside. This gives an aquarium a clean, modern look and keeps your aquarium crystal clear. Sumps are pricey, but also the most effective, long lasting, and need the least amount of maintenance. If any of this interests you, reach out and we can price out a quote!
