Habitat - Indoor :: 155 gallon tank set-up, 1 or 2 filters?

[2Daughtry8]

I currently have a rena xp3, in a 55 gallon tank that I was cleaning monthly, but recently started to clean every 2 weeks because I noticed the flow of the water slowing down. I just purchased a 155 gallon tank and plan to use that filter in this tank as well, but was wondering if I should get another xp3 or an xp4 to run 2 filters, or just continue with the 1 filter.

Would it be better to run 2 filters, or is the xp3 sufficient?

[papoopeepoo]

The more filtering power, the better. Get whatever you can afford. In the long run it will equal less cleaning, less water changes, and a happier turtle.

You may also consider getting one really powerful filter, like the Fluval FX5 or one of the nicer Eheims. This will lower your cost on filter media, and keep your unit to one thing to clean instead of two.

[seanwb]

As you are noticing the flow of water slowing down, I would add a filter when you set up the new tank.

I personally would keep 2 filters going, as you can guarantee that if one fails, it will fail at the worst possible moment. Much better to lose 1/2 your filtration rather than all of it.

[2Daughtry8]

So since you are suggesting 2 filters, would I get another xp3, or run an xp3 and an xp4?

[PcBuilder14]

Have at least a XP3 and XP4 in my opinion.

[rockyntrixi]

The 'rule of thumb' when it comes to turtle is that your filter system should be rated at 3 times the size of the tank (using 1, 2, etc. filters). So, if you have a 155 gallon tank than you should have enough filtration that you would normally use for a 465 gallon tank. I think that's alot, but that's how I've always understood it. I have a high-end eheim filter for my 55 gallon tank that I really, really love. You have to be careful that there is not too much 'suction', so that the turtles don't get caught in the filter system.

I'd just get the best filter you can get....xp4 or xp5 and use both of them.

[2Daughtry8]

So apparently my new tank is only 130 gallons, I remeasured the tank, the person that sold it to me was wrong. I currently have an xp3 on a 55 gallon tank, I still dont know if I should keep my current filter and use another xp3 or xp4 with it, or just run an fx5 by itself.

What do you think? I'm moving the beginning of September and need to purchase this filter before then.

[untsmurf]

I have a 125 with two xp3's and it works well. Would I trade in one or both of my filters for a stronger one? Heck yes!

You should clean out your xp3 to make sure it's running properly, then add the biggest filter you can afford. Then run both! The more filtration the better!

[papoopeepoo]

I have a 135 gallon tank filled enough that I have about 120 gallons of water in my system (including the sump). My FX5 is having no problem keeping my tank clean, which has one small turtle and a few minnows. I only service the filter about once a month and I barely ever do water changes because my tested levels of contaminants are perfect.

If you don't want to spend the money for a new FX5 you could just supplement your current filter with a second, more powerful one.

[mikee]

2Dau-8 I would suggest an Fluval FX5 filter. It is large and will handle a 135 very well. It in not cheap but worth it. It is my next filter when I up size for my turtles. m.