75 gallon tank, advice on filters?

**CosmicPixieDust** · 04-14-2013, 12:59 AM

Hello, I am about to acquire a 75 gallon fish tank..only it doesn't come with a filter system. My question is what is cheapest but not of terrible quality filter system I could get to start out with until I can build up some more money to get better ones? I would be getting two smaller ones to start out with (30-60 gallon?) I have a rather small budget at the moment because I am doing my soon to arrive son's nursery and the aquarium is for the nursery. Thank you for any advice you may have!

**mommy1** · 04-14-2013, 01:55 AM

Honestly, it would be better to save your money and get the filter that will stay on the tank and not a quick fix. Find a good canister filter rated for at least 150 gallons or two that are rated for 75 gallons. You might try craigslist and look for a used one, or two. Under filtering a tank is not a good idea at anytime. Brands to look for would be Fluval, Eheim, and Rena. If you don't want a canister filter than most here will suggest Aquaclear filters that hang on the back of the tank. I suggest two AC110 for that size tank.
I don't know your skill level with aquariums and fish so just in case, now is a good time to learn about cycling the tank, here is a quick guide to learn cycling, http://www.aquaticcommunity.com/aqua...ead.php?t=5640 Many people want to set up a tank and throw fish in there, but you need to cycle the tank first.

**Goes to 11!** · 04-14-2013, 02:53 AM

Originally Posted by Honey Badger 1

Honestly, it would be better to save your money and get the filter that will stay on the tank and not a quick fix. Find a good canister filter rated for at least 150 gallons or two that are rated for 75 gallons. You might try craigslist and look for a used one, or two. Under filtering a tank is not a good idea at anytime. Brands to look for would be Fluval, Eheim, and Rena. If you don't want a canister filter than most here will suggest Aquaclear filters that hang on the back of the tank. I suggest two AC110 for that size tank.

+1 This advice is worth repeating.

**imma24** · 04-14-2013, 04:41 AM

Agree with everyone above - your budget won't increase once the baby arrives either LOL

A 75 gal tank needs adequate filtration in place before you add any fish - I also think you should look for used components to save $.

Are you getting this tank used or new? Our advice here is always to get the largest tank you can afford, however, accessories can be pricey, especially for good quality - heater (unless doing goldfish or other coldwater fish), substrate (unless using sand), filter, etc. Do you have everything you will need except filtration? Including a liquid test kit & siphon too?

If you think that filtration will be out of your price reach, perhaps look for a complete set up used. Or, get a smaller tank and smaller fish?