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I am looking to buy I better filter, because I am sick of the 318 filter. I only have 20 gallons in the tank, and both (yes I have two) can't keep it clean for more then half a week( 3 to 4 days and I lose that clear look to the tank).

I am looking to upgrade my filters, but anything I get I won't be able to take to my next tank,(which I am hoping to get this fall) because of size(I want to get an FX5 for my next set up, but don't have the money right now, plus I don't know what the current would be like in 20 gallons).

So, is there anything cheap out there that will keep my tank clear, for at least a week? Or should I just get an XP1, 2, or 3(I really don't want to spend $100 on an XP3 just for 8 mouths though)?

Thanks for any suggestions in advance,

Nathan Radle.

You have 20 gallons of water in how big a tank (or is the tank itself 20-gallons)? You could try an Aquaclear---look at Rickiew04's post on the Fluval 2+ for some comments on the Aquaclear.

29 long with 20 gallons in it. Thanks allot.

If I were you, I'd just put up with it for a while, and save the money for a good filter that can be used with a new tank when you upgrade. It'll save you in the long run. I'm not familiar with the FX5 (that's fluval's newest right?). I use the fluval 404 for my 125gal and it keeps everything pretty clean. The output isn't incredibly strong and you can use it above or below the water line. I think it would work great in a 20gal.

Thanks everyone for the replies! I forgot I had a Marineland Emperor 400 rotting away in my garage. Quick run to the pet store, and 30 bucks later I had all new media(the old media had mold all over it, I had to scrub the filter itself for a good 15 minuets!!). I primed and started it, but it was unable to keep the water flow. It was only lifting the water five and half inchs, but it just wasn't powerful enough. So you know what that means...

ABOVE TANK BASKING AREA!!! YAY!!!

If it's like the AquaClear, I sometimes have to move the flow lever back and forth a bit before the water starts to get pulled upward. Sometimes adding more water to the filter helps as well.

Yeah I tried all that(worked on it for about 30 minuets). I was planing on building one anyway to maximize space. Because I won't be able to afford a new tank until at least this fall. So I want this one to last as long as possible.

Everything is ready to go I am just waiting until a turtle ramp comes in(the one that industrial girl has). I made a cover that fits around the filter. I spent 26.98 on overnight shipping, so I could work on it Saturday, and its not going to get here until MONDAY!!! Oh well what are you gonna do?

UPDATE: Just a quick update, ever sine I installed the above tank basking area, and raised the water level( http://www.redearslider.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=7719 ), the Emperor 400 has been doing grate!! It has been over a week, and the bottom of the tank is spotless!! I know this doesn't mean I should stop doing water changes, but it sure is nice having it clear, between them!!