75 gal filtration

**gronlaura** · 09-06-2012, 10:21 PM

Now that I've decided on a tank, I can look at all the other equipment. The tank size decision was pretty easy (with help from all you kind folks), but now there are many more choices for the remaining equipment. I like to do (or buy) things only once (if possible), making the correct decision the first time.

I've been doing a lot of research on filters and filtration, but am still not sure what is best. I have read the filtration stickys and many of the posts. My tank would be in my living room (where I watch TV) so the filtration needs to be as quiet as possible. I have read that the Eheims are very quiet and only need maintenance every few months. Is that really true? I know many here recommend them. From what I have read here, an Eheim 2217 canister and a HOB should do the trick. Aquaclear vs Fluval for the HOB?

For this piece of equipment, the more I read, the more confused I get! Filtration is the one thing (along with cycling) I really want to get right.

**Northerly** · 09-06-2012, 11:19 PM

I think that would be an excellent amount of filtration, and honestly i use both AC's and the fluval c series and my opinion is that the c series gets dirty quickly, but is an EXCELLENT filter. The AC's get dirty too(Depending on the media setup you use) but not as quickly and are also a very high quality filter.

I run an Aquaclear 110 on my 75g and it does very well, I recommend it as the fluval c series only goes up to 70g. They are all quiet filters though, so the final decision will come down to personal preference.

EDIT: keep in mind that the AC110 is 4.5 inches wide, and will need about 5 inches of space between tank and wall. I made this mistake and my lid doesnt fit on my 110 anymore.

**Rocksor** · 09-07-2012, 01:17 PM

Depending on your tank stocking, I would just get 2 2213 or 2 2215 eheims instead. It will be dead quiet compared to the HOBs.

**Cliff** · 09-07-2012, 01:26 PM

From what I have read and first hand info I have received, you can't go wrong with two Eheim filters. However, just with any filter you should clean it about every month.

You could also look into Rena filters as two Rena XP3s should be able to handle a very good stocking level in a 75 gallon tank, or a Fluval FX5 and a Rena XP2 is also another good option to consider and is what I currently have on my 90 gallon tank.

**Rocksor** · 09-07-2012, 01:38 PM

The fluval fx5 is such a beast to maintain. From having to remove it from under the aquarium to opening and rinsing the media. It sure is a chore. Personally, I would rather get two smaller canisters, and maintain those.

**Cliff** · 09-07-2012, 02:57 PM

That is a common complaint about canister filters with a very large media capacity. It can be a trade off sometimes. I personally prefer to have as much bio-media as possible, even if it adds a little more to my monthly filter cleaning. Two smaller canister filters (smaller than the FX5) will also work.

**gronlaura** · 10-15-2012, 11:41 PM

I apologize - I didn't realize this thread was still active and I posted a new thread re filtration to the beginning freshwater forum on Saturday. I have settled on 2 Rena XP3's but have a question. Please see my post "Getting my first tank in 2 weeks".

I am also considering 2 Via Aqua 200W Titanium heaters rather than the Jaegers.

Thanks for all your help.