Instructions
Measure the size and capacity of your fish tank. Large tanks will need either one powerful or two slightly powerful filtration systems to handle the volume of water. Most filters will indicate what aquarium capacity they are designed for.
Define your aquascaping plans and designs. If you intend to maintain a planted aquarium that requires a thick substrate to anchor and develop plant roots, you will need an undergravel filtration system. A thick substrate without an undergravel filter could harbor harmful bacteria and gases in the undisturbed sand or gravel.
Consider the habitat requirements of the fish you want to keep. Some fish species do not thrive in strong water currents, which means an external filter that delivers filtered water back into the tank in a torrential waterfall is out of the question. Undergravel or submerged box filters would be the best option.
Consider the long-term cost of the filtration system. Some filters claim excellent filtration capabilities but they require the use of proprietary filter media. This can become expensive in the long run, especially with large fish communities that generate copious amounts of waste requiring frequent filter media changes.
Choose a filter brand that is known for durability and reliability. Some products are cheap because they are erratic and short-lived. Visit product review sites online for customer feedback.
How to Pick a Fish Tank Filter
With the numerous brands and types of fish tank filters in the market, choosing the right one that is both efficient for your aquarium habitat and economical in the long run can be a challenge. Typically, a powerful filter is ideal, but in some cases, rushing water is not suitable for the fish inhabitants. Some filters use expensive proprietary filter media; others are extremely complicated to clean. The best way to pick a fish tank filter is to start by outlining what your filtration requirements are.