Benefits of multiple filtration

[Crispy]

having multiple filters also comes in handy if you ever need to instantly cycle a new tank, hospital tank, friends tank, etc.

another thing is that some filters with high flow are best for mechanical filtration and removing particles from the water column, while others like sumps are best for biological filtration. I run 8 filters on my 190g (2x ac110s, fx5, 55 wet/dry, and 4 sponge filters) and I wouldn't have it any other way.

[Cermet]

Excellent article. I have been making this point for a while (extra filters for better cleaning - didn't think about the filter cleaning issue, through!) I use a canister, Bio-wheel HOB, and a UGF (reverse). Besides protecting from a mini-cycle when I clean one unit, I noticed my canister, even after four months of operation, is almost perfectly clean. The HOB really helps - that is the unit that helps add oxygen (I no longer need an air stone/pump.) Why I have to make a lot of large WC (for the discus), the water, even with heavy feeding, stays clean. Of course, phosphates are an issue and a reactor just does not cut it even with my weekly 80% WC and 20% mid-week. But that is an other story ... .

[Gogi]

I have two filters on my 4 gallon betta tank. An aquaclear20, my favorite, and a small bio maxx nano filter HOB. They run on the lowest setting keep water stable and crystal clear. My betta, Crimson, loves to sleep under the waterfall lol.

[Lady Hobbs]

While no one should ever "cheap out" when it comes to any aquarium equiptment, the very last place you should ever cut corners is filtration! It is the backbone of a quality aquarium.

Well said and right on target. Two filters also prevent dead spots in the tank and it's so nice to have that second filter so you can do a good cleaning on the remaining filter when it's needed without loss to your cycle.

[beefy]

great post ordered internal fluval u4 should get it tomorow as second filter on my 130ltr so 550lph and 100lph should be good as im having problems clearing water with the 550lph overhead trickle filter,looking forward to crystal clear water and happy fishes

[beefy]

great article,i just added a fluval u4 1000lph to my 130ltr which has a 550lph overhead trickle filter it was struglling due 2 overstocking now my water is crystal clear an my fishes will surely appreaciate the extra filtration as i do,again thanks to the ac for the info

[-Rachel]

im glad i read this i have been debating in my mind if i should get another aquarium filter and i think i will! thanks for the info

[MetalMike415]

Excellent read thank you for your time in writing it I will be adding a second one shortly

[FPF77]

Add filters to the sump...that's an awesome idea!

I don't have a sump at the moment, but when I upgrade the tank, I'll remember that.

I have run multiple filters ever since I got back into FW (a canister and internal surface skimmer), and you're spot on with the benefits. My neons are the picture of health. IMHO, that's well worth the small extra cost of a second filter.

[Westbeef]

Just purchased my second, it's on its way :).

Have a Fluval U3, and a Aquaclear 30 now for my 110Litre.