Instructions
Know your tank size. When you choose the type of filter you want, you'll need to purchase the size needed to work in your aquarium. If you aren't sure how many gallons your aquarium holds, measure your tank and compare it to the labeled sizes offered at a pet store.
Think about the types of fish you plan on keeping before you purchase any filters. Some fish are dirtier than others and may require a stronger filter for fewer fish in the same size aquarium.
Consider the amount of time you have to devote to maintenance. Even though all filters need to be scheduled on a regular routine to keep your fish healthy, some filters, like the undergravel filters, need significantly more maintenance than others
Select a power filter for a convenient filter that hangs on the outside of the tank and is easy to maintain in minutes. While it will need monthly maintenance, the power filter works well in tanks that aren't overstocked or overfed.
Purchase a canister filter for messier fish, like goldfish and cichlids, because it can do a stronger job of filtering the water with less frequent, every-other-month cleanings. But if left unmaintained, the canister can clog and stop all water flow in the tank, which is dangerous for your fish.
How to Choose Aquarium Filters
Whether you have kept fish before or are just getting started, having the right filter in your fish tank can make all the difference in your water quality and make keeping fish a breeze. When getting started, it can sometimes seem difficult to choose aquarium filters because there are several models and brands of filters available. With a few considerations, it's easy to learn which type of filter you need.