Equipment Review and Discussion :: Fluval 4

[311guy1]

Hi. I'm thinking about buying this filter. I really can't afford anything more expansive. Has anyone used this filter before? Or can anyone recommend a filter? I have 10 gallons filled in a 20 gal tank, but I'm going to fill the tank all the way once I get this new filter .Currently, I have one of those cheap Repto turtle filters that really doesn't do anything. i have to change the water nearly every week, and it's a pain.

[Rubicon]

A 4+ should easily be able to handle a full 20 gallon tank. You really wont have a bio load so definitely stay up on water changes.

[steve]

I use a Fluval 4+ in a 100 gallon stock tank (55 gallons of water), it's barely adequate for the job.

[311guy1]

Ok, so I should stay clear of the Fluval 4? Can anyone recommend a good bio filter for my 20 gal setup?

[marisa]

I'd stay clear of the Fluval Plus series, period (exception: the 2+ with tiny hatchlings). For a 20-gallon long with one smaller (2 - 3 inches) painted, I used an Aquaclear 70 (hangs on the tank), which worked well. BUT, the water level needs to be high (you said you're going to increase it) or something (like a piece of plexiglass) needs to be added to the output to quiet the noise (if you like the sound of a waterfall, no problem ).

[Rubicon]

I would take a 4+ over a hang on any day of the week.

[311guy1]

Is that because you're trying to sell one Rubicon?

[Caphits]

and because its not "splashy". That gets annoying pretty fast.

[jozzep]

Just buy a real filter and forget about trying to save money with these little toy filters...
Get a fluval 304/5 for that 20 gallon and the water will be amazing!
If you can't afford it, then save till you can...You may find a used one for $50 if you know where to look.

[Caphits]

http://cgi.ebay.com/Fluval-304-Aquarium ... :1|294:200



http://cgi.ebay.com/Multi-Stage-Filter- ... :1|294:200


You might get lucky.

[Rubicon]

Is that because you're trying to sell one Rubicon?

Nope I used mine in my 55gallon for months with no problems. I've got my 4+ outside in a pond now.

[marisa]

I have both the Fluval 4+ and the Aquaclear. There is no comparison. (And the Aquaclear takes up no room in the tank.) A 4+ in a pond???

[megcornell]

I have a 4+ and I think it would take up quite a bit of space in a 20g tank. I'd look for something smaller or buy a good filter and find a stock tank or used tank to fit the filter.

[mike hill]

311-g I understand the $ issue. A 20 gallon tank is a hard place to be with turtles. It seems like the filters are too small or too large. I have a 29 with a 350gph and that does fine. The water has a little swirl but keeps it super clean. You may be stuck with water changes until you can get a larger set up. When you are ready the folks here will be glad to help. m.