Equipment Review and Discussion :: Any GOOD/quiet filters???

[tlcthis]

I have a 75 gallon tank with about 35 gallons of water with a 70 AquqClear that has just died (had it about 6 months). Not happy with how loud it was. Sounds like all the filters have some negatives to them. Are there any out on the market that are specifically designed for turtles?

here is a link to a previous post on Turtle Talk if you need more info on my set up
www.redearslider.com/forum/viewtopic.ph ... highlight=

One res his shell measures 6.5"

Thank you for any help in my research for the perfect filter (LOLOL)

[marisa]

Filters are pretty much made for fish, and those that are marketed for turtles aren't that good.

AquaClear filters do tend to be noisy, especially if you don't modify the output with something like a piece of plexiglass. They also work better with the water level higher, and I'm wondering why with that size tank the water level is that low...BTW, the Aquaclear 70 is too small for that tank. A 110 would have done a better job (with a higher water level).

Anyway, for your size tank, look into a good canister filter. A Rena Filstar, either the XP3 or XP4, would be good. There are a number of posts on this filter if you look. I've used the XP3, and if you follow the instructions for setting it up, it's virtually noiseless. Some people also like Fluval canisters.

[tlcthis]

Marisa,

I did modify with the plexi (check the previous posting as you have replied to it) and it was still "noisy". If I wanted noise I would turn on a radio.

At least one person has posted that they had s leak with their XP3. Have you ever had this problem and how long have you used the XP3?

Instructions for hooking up being what? I read that it needs to be below the tank (not a problem) any other special requirements as I have never used a canister style filter?

[marisa]

If a 75-gallon tank had only 35 gallons of water in it, how long was the plexiglass lip you added. But wait---are you the person who posted pics of their Aquaclear 70? (Sorry, I don't have time go back and look). If you are, I remember saying that the AquaClear 70 was pushing it in a tank that big. (If you're not, I apologize for being mistaken).

OK, let's forget the Aquaclears. I used my XP3 for 2.5 years. I stopped using it because I had it on the floor next to a stock tank and realized I was going to wear it out using it that way (it had been on the floor like that for over a year). If you're sensitive to noise, you don't want to get one if you can't put it on the floor under the tank. When I used it as was intended, I couldn't hear any noise. The only time I had minor problems with it (never a leak) was because of something I did (put the impellar in wrong when cleaning, not having the media baskets set in properly, etc.).

As for special instructions, the manual says the filter should be 24 inches below the water level. If you don't want to hear any water, keep the spray bar or spigot (your option as to which you use) under the water line.

I remember only 1 poster who had a leakage problem with the XP3, why, or whether it was defective, I don't know. On balance, the people who've bought them and like them is overwhelming greater than those who have had problems.

Perhaps someone who uses a canister other than the XP3 (or 4) will be able to give you a different perspective.

[ajozwiak]

I have a XP filter and LOVE it. It is the best investment I've made for this aquarium by far. It works so much better than the Aquaclear that I was using and it's silent! Definitely worth the money if you can get one!