The 8 Best Aquarium Filters of 2022
Aquarium Filter – Buying Guide, Opinions and Analysis
In order to ensure a healthy and safe environment for your pets, as well as your plants, in your aquarium, you must have a good filtering system installed so that you can trap contaminating particles from the water before it returns to the tank. A good option is the Hydor C01103 model, an external filter with a large capacity, so you can install it on tanks of different sizes. The second alternative could be All Ponds Solutions CUV-207. This model has an integrated ultraviolet light with which you can eliminate bacteria, accumulation of algae and any other microorganism that can put the health of your fish at risk.
The 8 Best Aquarium Filters – Opinions 2022
Aquarium filters are necessary to ensure an environment with the parameters and proper hygiene that guarantees the good health of your fish and in this list you can find some striking options with an attractive value for money:
external aquarium filter
1. Hydor 104I-HY/C01103 Prime 10 Outer Filter
Among filtering systems, the Hydor model stands out for its capacity, which allows it to work with tanks between 10 liters and 250 liters, so you have freedom when choosing where to install it.
On the other hand, this external aquarium filter also has a powerful motor, since it can move a maximum of 650 liters of water per hour, so that the environment inside the tank remains oxygenated and with a constant flow of purified water for your fish. plants and fish.
In addition, being external, the filter has a practical design in which a rubber base stands out that will serve to prevent it from moving from its place due to humidity or vibration of the motor. It has dimensions of 17.4 x 19.8 x 30.1 centimeters and its weight is 308 grams, so you can handle it comfortably when installing it.
This model could become the best aquarium filter of the moment and here we present its pros and cons:
Pros
Capacity: It has a wide and powerful capacity to work with aquariums of different sizes and offer optimal performance within its parameters.
Filter: The filter material for the system is already included with the purchase of the equipment so you do not need to spend additional money.
Silent: It is quieter than other models thanks to the shock-absorbing rubber base.
Installation: Its installation in the aquarium will be simple and uncomplicated, since it is practically ready to use.
Cons
Diffuser: It does not have a diffuser nozzle to be able to enjoy the production of bubbles, something that could make it versatile.
aquarium UV filter
2. All Pond Solutions CUV-207 UV Light Sterilizer Filter
All Ponds Solutions offers you an aquarium UV filter that you can install directly on the wall if you wish, as it comes with the corresponding mounting kit and screws. This will allow you to secure the system to a reliable surface.
It has dimensions of 23.8 x 9 x 7.6 centimeters with a weight of 998 grams, being compact in size so as not to take up much space and you can carry out its maintenance comfortably.
In addition, the opinions agree that it could be the best aquarium filter, since it has an integrated ultraviolet light bulb with which you can purify the water that passes through the system and thus return it safe for your fish and plants.
Regarding its capacity, the equipment has an engine with which it can work in tanks of a maximum of 4,000 liters of water, according to what is indicated by its manufacturer.
All Ponds Solutions is, perhaps, the best brand of aquarium filters and now you will know the advantages and disadvantages of this model:
Pros
Fall: The water outlet offers a soft jet fall for your aquarium when circulating the liquid, contributing to oxygenation.
Compatibility: It can be installed in both freshwater and saltwater aquariums without problems.
Accessories: With your purchase you will get a quartz tube and UV light bulb at no additional cost, so you can use it as soon as you take it out of the package.
Mounting: A mounting kit is included so you can easily mount it on the wall near the aquarium.
Cons
Manual: One of its disadvantages is that the instruction manual is in English, which could complicate its use.
internal aquarium filter
3. Tetra In Plus 300
If you need an internal aquarium filter, this Tetra In Plus model might interest you. It is a device of practical size and modest capacity for small and medium sized aquariums.
It has a size of 10.2 x 8.8 x 19.6 centimeters and its weight is 200 grams, so it will be easy to find the right corner where you can install it without disturbing your pets.
In addition, the aquarium filter has integrated suction cups that will allow you to place it directly on the glass of any of the sides of the tank, preventing you from having to modify the structure.
Regarding its capacity, this model is designed to work with tanks that have between 10 liters and 40 liters of water, since it has a power of 5 watts. On the other hand, it is highlighted that the system uses biological filter sponge in conjunction with activated carbon to be able to purify the water and trap all the agents that are harmful to the health of your fish.
If you have not yet been able to decide which aquarium filter to buy, we advise you to evaluate what the Tetra In Plus team offers you:
Pros
Design: This filter has a practical, compact and easy-to-use design so you can install it without problems.
Installation: It has suction cups so you can mount it without the need for tools and in just a few seconds.
Filtration: Filters the water using a biological sponge and activated carbon, so good performance is guaranteed.
Nozzle: The water outlet nozzle can rotate 180º so you can direct its fall where you prefer.
Cons
Maintenance: This model may require more frequent maintenance than other models.
aquarium backpack filter
4. AquaClear A6000
A600 could be one of the best aquarium filters of 2022 as it employs three stages to make sure to purify the water circulating inside your aquarium.
Specifically, the first stage is called mechanical filtration, designed to trap particles and solid residues, followed by chemical filtration, through which bad odors and impurities present in the water due to food and animal waste are absorbed. The last stage is the biological filtration designed to reduce the levels of ammonia and nitrites in the water, thus regularizing its hardness to improve its conditions.
In addition, this aquarium backpack filter has a practical design that takes advantage of the potential of the system. Its dimensions are 14.5 x 10 x 15 centimeters and it weighs 680 grams, being able to work in tanks of up to 114 liters with a flow of 190 liters per hour.
In order to determine which is the best aquarium filter, it is important to know it thoroughly and here are more details about this product:
Pros
Filtration: It has three stages of filtering for the water in your aquarium, each one with a specific action for purification.
Installation: It can be placed directly on the edge of the tank, being easy to install.
Flow: The motor offers a flow of 190 liters per hour, which will keep the water circulating and oxygenated.
Use: The components and capacity of this equipment make it suitable for freshwater and saltwater aquariums.
Cons
Noise: Since the waterfall is a waterfall type, this can produce annoying noises for the taste of some users.
20 liter aquarium filter
5. Sera Aquarium Internal Filter Fil 60 06843 380 l/h
In the search for a 20-liter aquarium filter, we found this Sera model, whose value for money is positively valued by its users.
Of this model we highlight that it is suitable for small aquariums of up to 60 liters, offering a flow rate of 380 liters per hour and a single power of 7W, in addition to efficient suction. For this reason, the aquarium stays clean longer.
Regarding the assembly of this device, you should know that it is flexible, therefore, it can be mounted vertically or horizontally, according to the design of the aquarium or according to your preferences. They can also be attached to glass with the included suction cups.
On the other hand, the filter system relies on a sponge and activated carbon that naturally remove harmful substances in the water, providing a clean and healthy environment for fish and other aquatic animals.
Below we summarize some of the pros and cons that we observed in this model.
Pros
Power: The motor has a unique power of 7 W that offers high suction power and a flow rate of up to 380 liters per hour, filtering a large volume of impurities.
Size and mounting: This filter measures 17.5 x 5 x 6 cm. A compact size that favors the vertical or horizontal arrangement of its assembly, being also possible to fix it to the glass by means of suction cups.
Cons
Replacement: This model does not include replacement filters, so you must take into account the purchase of these consumables for the proper functioning of the device.
Eheim aquarium filter
6. Eheim Pickup 160 Internal Filter
Pickup 160 is an Eheim aquarium filter that stands out for being delivered ready to use, since it has the filtering system and its components previously installed, as well as a pair of suction cups to easily adhere to the aquarium glass.
It has a practical and comfortable design to handle with dimensions of 7 x 8 x 22 centimeters to take up little space inside your tank and not affect the harmony of your pets and plants. Also, it is said that the motor is quite silent and does not affect or bother at all, even if it is kept on at night.
On the other hand, its easy maintenance stands out, since the design of the casing allows you to disassemble it with your hands, in order to remove the accumulated dirt and wash the sponges. This will ensure a flow without loss of power, as well as more appreciable performance and better health for your fish.
Eheim offers you a striking option that also has very useful functions for the care of your aquarium:
Pros
Design: It is a filter with a discreet and compact design that you can easily place inside your tank for water treatment.
Capacity: It is recommended for aquariums between 60 liters and 160 liters of capacity for a water flow of between 220 liters and 500 liters per hour.
Suction cups: It has suction cups to adhere to the surface of the tank safely.
Silent: The low level of noise produced by the filter when it is turned on has been highlighted, so it does not cause inconvenience.
Cons
Plug: Keep in mind that it comes with an English plug and in order to use the continental one, you will have to remove the screw from the base.
100 liter aquarium filter
7. WilTec SunSun HBL-802 Hanging Filter for Trailer
The HBL-802 model of the SunSun line corresponds to a 100-liter aquarium filter that has a 6W motor with which it can circulate a maximum of 500 liters of water per hour, being very practical for the daily maintenance of your aquarium..
It is a hanging type for easy installation that also offers a water flow adjustment system that will regulate both the suction and the output to suit the size of your tank.
Regarding its design, the filter has a size of 13.5 x 27 x 28 centimeters and weighs 1.7 kilograms. It is made of resistant plastic and will be able to withstand bumps or scratches to keep it looking new for longer.
Another of its advantages is that the filtering system is already ready to be used, avoiding the need to invest money in biological components after purchasing the filter.
Analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of each model will help you make a better purchase decision. Now, take a look at the WilTec filter:
Pros
Customization: In addition to the filtering agents included, you can integrate others of your choice, such as zeolite or filter rings.
Compatibility: You will not have performance problems regardless of whether you install it in fresh or salt water tanks.
Maintenance: Unlike others, this one does not require such regular maintenance, since a full month can go by without needing it.
Silent: It is silent despite its ability not to cause discomfort at home.
Cons
Weight: It is a bit heavy compared to others, so we advise you to install it carefully.
Biological filter for aquarium
8. Sera 8471 High Performance Self-Cleaning Biological Filter Media
If your interest is focused on a cheaper biological aquarium filter, the Sera brand could have a product that will be useful to complement your ecosystem.
Package 8471 contains a total of 145 grams of biological filter rings that you can place inside your aquarium filter to improve its performance and also create the ideal conditions for the growth of beneficial bacteria for the ecosystem. These bacteria will be able to degrade organic substances, such as waste and food scraps.
The filter rings have a diameter of 1.5 centimeters each, so you must first take into account the size of your filter tank before purchasing them. They have a three-dimensional porous surface that will serve as a home for bacteria colonies and are self-cleaning, so you can reduce the regularity of the maintenance process of your aquarium.
Being one of the cheapest options, this alternative could be a good option in aquarium filters if you don’t want to spend too much:
Pros
Structure: The rings offer tunnels and pores for the formation of biofilms necessary for the development of bacteria.
Degradation: Degradation effects also affect dead bacteria to prevent pore clogging.
Use: To use them, you only have to fill your filter with the rings, turn it on and that’s it, the biostart system will start working immediately.
Flow: When using these rings, the water flow will not be affected thanks to the type of structure.
Cons
Filter: You should know that this product does not include the aquarium filter, but rather it is a filter component.
aquarium accessories
sponge for aquarium filter
Naisicatar SamGreatWorld Filter sponge for aquarium
The aquarium filter sponge should be replaced when it has already reached the point of not doing the job well or being too dirty and that is when products like Naisicatar are more than useful.
The sponge has dimensions of 50 x 50 x 2.5 centimeters, which you can cut to your liking and need depending on the filtering system or where you want to place the sponge.
In addition to this, it is highlighted that the sponge material offers permeability and adequate density to allow the growth of benign bacteria for the biological filtration of water, offering a healthier and safer environment for your fish.
Shopping guide
If you are looking for a comparison of aquarium filters, you will notice that there are some crucial aspects that must be studied before choosing which one to acquire. In this guide to buying the best aquarium filter you will be able to find out what they are so that you can invest in the most suitable one for your tank.
filter type
It is likely that, if you are looking for an economical model, the first thing you need to check is the type of filter, since there are different systems depending on their installation and components.
Basically, you can choose between four types of filter: internal, external, sponge and box. The first two are usually the most popular due to their easy installation and overall performance.
In addition, the market for internal and external filters for aquariums is quite extensive, offering models of different capacities so that you can purchase the one that performs best depending on the size of your tank or the amount of water it contains.
In the case of internal models, these are usually simple to install and only need to be connected to a power outlet to start filtering the water, causing it to circulate inside the tank at the same time. The same could be said of external units, only these usually offer, in addition, a waterfall to cause a relaxing effect.
Structural design
Another aspect that can influence its performance and also how much a certain model costs is its structural design. Depending on the capacity of the filter, its size can be affected, which is why you should consider the size of your aquarium before choosing it. This way you will avoid taking up too much space inside your aquarium and bothering your fish.
On the other hand, the design also determines how the filter can be installed, be it internally under water, on the edge or even recessed into the nearby wall. This is important, because if you do not have the necessary space, this could affect its operation or even make it impossible.
In addition to this, considering the type of water outlet would not hurt, since a fall that is too high or noisy could become annoying both for the animals and for you.
capacity and power
The capacity and power of the aquarium filter of your interest is also of vital importance so that you can make the most of your investment.
When analyzing the different options offered by the market in this category, you must first know the size of your aquarium, as well as the amount of water it holds. This should be based on the capacity of the filter to circulate the water depending on the number of liters per hour.
As recommended, when you go to choose a filter, it must exceed the circulation of water by at least three times the amount stored in the tank to ensure proper oxygenation and purification of the liquid.
Filter Components
The following feature focuses on the components of the device’s filtering system. As you know, you can choose between different filtering agents for your aquarium based on the type of water, preferred parameters or also the type of living organism in the ecosystem.
Fortunately, there are aquarium filters that can work with different agents at the same time, so that you can attack the harmful elements present in the water without neglecting any.
Also, you could even buy models that use several stages of filtering depending on the type of waste. This will ensure that you offer your fish and plants a healthy environment in which to grow and develop.
Maintenance and care
Finally, the important feature that you should consider when reviewing aquarium filter models is the maintenance and care required by the system.
Normally, this tends to depend on both the type of filter agent and the capacity of the equipment. In general, the smaller the filter, the more regularly it should be cleaned, since it accumulates dirt more easily.
On the other hand, when verifying this aspect, you should not forget that, in order to properly clean a filter, you must be able to remove the accumulated debris in all the tubes and corners, which is why we advise you to choose a model that can be easily disassembled. This will help you get the job done in less time, with less effort, and more easily.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: How to use an aquarium filter?
Before installing your new aquarium filter, you must first know what type it is, as this influences its location requirements. Basically, there are three types of filtration system: internal, external, sponge and box, although the latter are rarely used in modern aquariums anymore.
Depending on its type, you will have to find the right position inside or outside the aquarium to prevent your fish from being negatively affected by its presence. Make sure that the water pressure is adequate and the discharge rate is not too high, as this could hurt your pets or the plants in the aquarium.
Also, taking into account the type of filter, you must apply the required cleaning and maintenance treatment, either by washing it frequently, changing the filtering agents or replacing essential components.
Q2: How to make a homemade aquarium filter?
If you want to make a simple internal filter for your aquarium, you will first need to acquire a pump with enough power to suck in and out the water and adapt it to work in conjunction with a sponge that serves as a filtration system.
The first thing you should do is get a plastic tube with the right size to insert around the vacuum nozzle. With a screwdriver you can open holes around the tube up to the height where it will be inserted inside the sponge, since this way you will be able to suck up the water more easily.
Now, connect the tube with the sponge to your pump and place it on one of the sides of your underwater aquarium using the suction cups.
Q3: Does the aquarium filter have to be running all the time?
Yes, as indicated by experts, the aquarium filter should remain on as long as possible, since there are aerobic bacteria that perish when they cut off the flow of oxygen in the water, which can negatively affect the health of your fish. fish and plants.
Q4: What is the carbon used for in the aquarium filter?
The main purpose of the activated carbon found in some aquarium water filtering systems is to act as a safety sponge capable of trapping all the harmful particles and chemicals that are produced inside the aquarium by waste and food remains..
Specifically, activated carbon can absorb heavy chemicals such as metals, medicine or toxins that may be in the water, thus helping to maintain purity and safe acidity levels.
Q5: How many liters per hour should an aquarium filter move?
According to the recommendations of some users and experts in aquariums, it is recommended that the filter that you place in your tank is capable of moving approximately three to five times all the water in the aquarium per hour. This guarantees correct oxygenation to keep the internal ecological system balanced.
Q6: How to place the inlet and outlet of the aquarium filter?
In general, aquarium filters include these pieces with your purchase, so you do not have to buy them separately and to be able to locate them correctly, you just have to identify which piece goes where, place them both in the filter inlet and outlet and proceed to test its operation.
Some advise placing the water outlet near the heater if you have one in the aquarium, in order to maintain a constant temperature in the circulating water.
Q7: Which is better, a biological or UV aquarium filter?
Biological filters are those that are created within the same aquarium, that is, they are part of the ecosystem and are maintained in a practically self-sufficient way, preventing you from having to constantly apply cleaning or change spare parts.
However, UV aquarium filters are designed for specific uses, since this type of light is capable of killing bacteria colonies, treating diseases, purifying water, etc.
Therefore, you must first determine the use that you are going to give the filter to be able to choose the most suitable for you and your type of aquarium.
Q8: How to clean the aquarium filter?
This will depend on the system you have installed. In case you are dealing with an internal filter, it is recommended to do it at least once every two weeks. Be sure to unplug it from the power before handling it to avoid accidents. Remove all parts and clean each one thoroughly with running water and a brush. This way you can easily remove any accumulation of algae or dirt before putting it back in place.
What you should know about internal aquarium filters
All lovers and fans of the aquarium hobby should know the benefits of an internal filter, which can be of greater or lesser benefits depending on your budget, but in general they have the same main function. However, you should know the advantages and disadvantages of these devices before choosing a certain model.
The internal filter is the most traditional and classic water maintenance system, which is why many users still consider it the best aquarium filter. Normally, it is included in the purchase package, consisting of the aquarium, heater, conditioning liquids and the filter. However, it is very easy to have doubts about the operation of the device, therefore, you must know how to use it optimally, since it is a necessary piece of equipment to promote the health and prolong the life of the fish.
Profits
main operation
The function of the internal filter is to absorb impurities from the water and provide a better ecosystem for life inside the aquarium, so it must be borne in mind that they are not devices to be used as accessories, but rather they respond to a basic need of the aquarium. aquatic ecosystem. However, you can get some advanced models, which in addition to carrying out the common filtering process, also allow chemical and biological filtration, recommended mainly for delicate or very exotic fish species.
To achieve effective filtering, the device uses a motor that passes water through a system of sponges that absorb dirt. In some cases, they also incorporate special compartments that purify the water. Depending on the thickness
