New hood?

[Minderella83]

I have had an Eclipse 2 for about 10 yrs and have been happy with it for the most part but I do think it is time to get a new hood. I the Eclipse system still the best or is there something else that is better? I have been toying with the idea of getting a regular flourescent hood and filter or buy a new Eclipse hood. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[jbeining75]

Upto you. What size tank is it on a 15 or 20 gallon???

30 watts lighting so if the tank is unplanted it should be fine. The eclipse two covers 24X12....

Hood light and filter al in one it does fine as long as you haven't had problems. Just use the old filter media so the tank doesn't recycle of course.

[randompete]

Is open-top a possibility? I just did that to a tank that had been covered with an Eclipse hood and I really like it. Because I didn't want to start having stuff hanging off of the back I put in a Duetto in-tank filter, but I know there are plenty of other choices. The open-top with a light up on stilts or even hanging down, if you can afford it, really adds a new dimension to a tank. It allows for plants that flower above water and can just make the tank feel more like a part of the room, IMHO.

However, if you are enjoying the clean look of the Eclipse hood I would stick with it.:4:

[Minderella83]

It is a 20 H, I have had the tank for about 15 yrs too. I like the eclipse but it is expensive

[A340]

All really depends on what kind of tank you have, reef, planted, community, etc.

I like the idea of an open tank myself, especially on a planted. But, if it's just a typical community tank. I'd go for an Aquaclear 50 filter, glass top and a basic Coralife Aqualight (freshwater) T5 double light strip.

The Aquaclear is by far the best and most versatile HOB filter on the market, and the AC50 will provide you with more than adequate filteration. The Coralife Aqualight has a full spectrum light as well as a plant light, so it provides good lighting for basic plants while bring out the colours in your fish.