How To Select The Right Aquarium Filter

Well, I hate to burst your bubble but fish tank filters are not created equal. It is tru that some perform better than others while there are also filters that are suited for specific conditions and perform specific tasks. The also differ according to price and how often they need to be maintained. In this article I will expose you to the various choices of fish tank filters that you have and what you can do to select the ideal filter for your aquarium..

Very important, in fact fish tank filters are an absolute must in any aquarium. Along with fish tank heaters, aquarium filters form a system that ensure the living conditions in a tank is just right for healthy and vibrant fish. 

Choosing the right fish tank filter for you is also a matter of personal choice. While different types of filters function is different ways, they all perform the same functions which is to filter the water of debris and externals that would reduce the water quality.

Fish tank filters do one or more of the following tasks when filtering: chemical, mechanical and biological. 

Chemical filtration involves the removal of toxins and dissolved matter usually through activated carbon. The carbon filter is extremely porous and traps waste and phosphates in its pores. Other than these, it will also be able to remove odor and ammonia from the water. While it really isn't all that important to perform chemical filtration, it can be useful especially in a tank meant for quarantine to filter out the excess chemicals used for treatment. 

Mechanical filtration is the process of removing large waste and sediments from the tank. This is the most basic filtration but is no less important. 

Biological filtration is a very important filtration task. Biological filters utilize a colony of beneficial bacteria to filter out toxins and decay from the tank. If you wish to have healthy and thriving fish, then biological filtration is an absolute must.

Usually almost all fish tank filters perform mechanical and biological filtration. You will find chemical filtration as an add on to the more epxensive range of filters. Your choice of aquarium filters to use should depend on the size of the tank, the quantity of fish, how sensitive the fish are, how much you are willing to pay for the filter and finally how much time you are willing to set aside to clean it. Here is a general look at the various types of fish tank filters being sold today: 

Box Filters: Also known as Corner Filters, this is usually a clear box that contains filter floss and other media. Air is push through an air stone which then pumps water into the filter, through the floss and filter media which performs mechanical filtration. After some time, there will be a build up of bacterial colony providing biological filtration . Box filters are cheap but should only be used in small tanks as they are generally not that efficient. Most fish enthusiasts today also do not favor them because the box which is placed inside the tank tends to stand out like a sore thumb against the beautiful decoration. They require weekly cleaning but are easily to clean.

Undergravel Filters: These consists of a raised plastic platform with a layer of gravel on the top. By utilizing a pump, water is suck from beneath the gravel, forcing it to flow through the gravel which performs mechanical and eventually biological filtration . Undergravel filters are usually sold as a complete beginners set. The weekly cleaning that you need to do involves vacuuming the layer of muck that will accumulate just above the gravel. 

Sponge Filters: These fairly efficient filters are usually used as a secondary filter attached to a main filter to further increase the filtration process. Sponge filters are cheap but the maintenance can be a bit messy because you will have to to remove the sponge from the tank and clean it before replacing it back again. 

Power Filters: These are the most common filters used by most fish enthusiasts. They are very efficient and provides a complete filtration process. Some the reasons why they are so famous is because of the mid range price, efficient filtering and simple maintenance. Just right for a mid size tank.

Canister Filters:  Meant mainly for larger thanks that need a powerful finter. Canister filters are expensive but they provide the perfect filtration solution. They require very little maintenance usually just a couple of times in a year. Also, because the filter is totally outside of the tank, you never have to touch the aquarium water to clean it.

Think carefully about the fish tank filter that you wish to buy because it should be an investment that is supposed to last you for many years. Choosing the correct fish tank filter will ensure not only healthy and vibrant fish but a hobby that will be totally satisfying. If you like more help on deciding on the right fish tank filters to buy or for great deals and discounts for top aquarium filter brands, visit Fish Tank Filters at http://fish-tank-filters.org now.