Table of Contents
Criterion 1: Deciding on the right design
Basically, filters can be divided into three distinctions. For one thing, there is Internal filter, which are mounted directly in the aquarium. On the other hand, there is the group of external filter, which usually find space in the base cabinet and then there are still special shapes of filtering that of Hamburg mat filter with an appropriate air filter. This is the first decision you should make before going into detail.
Criterion 2: decide according to the size of the aquarium
Let's come to the second criterion of the size of the aquarium. Once you have decided whether it should be an internal filter or an external filter, you must first select the respective types and devices according to the size of the pool. Internal filters are no longer available from a certain aquarium size and you should use one or more external filters. Compared to an internal filter, these can hold more filter media and do not take up any space in the tank. In addition, cleaning may also be easier. Disadvantage is the piping outside of the aquarium. A certain amount of carelessness can quickly lead to water damage.
That's why you should carefully consider which way to go. Especially in the range below 200 liters, an internal filter can still make sense. Usually no more about that. External filters are increasingly being used here.
Criterion 3: According to the flow rate
Each filter has a corresponding one flow performance which is given in liters per hour. This should definitely be observed. It is difficult to say exactly what you need, because the required flow rate depends on many factors. The stocking can play a decisive role here, but also the stocking density. Depending on how many fish are in the aquarium, the more a filter has to perform. Of course, it also depends on the capacity of the aquarium. A 200 liter aquarium usually requires filters in the 400 l/h category and an aquarium with only 100 liters will get by with less. Usually you can also read from the rule of thumb that you need 2 times the water content in terms of filter performance. A certain percentage of reserve should then be added to this.
Criterion 4: The power consumption of the filter
Of course, when making a purchase decision, you should also examine and compare the power consumption of your favorites more closely. Since energy is becoming more and more expensive, a closer look at the Upkeep contemplate. The power consumption of the individual devices is usually in the single-digit watt range, but since these filters run for 24 hours and 365 days, a few watt savings can make a difference. We therefore advise you to pay attention to this.
| # | Preview | Products | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | Tetra Aquarium external filter EX 1000 Plus - powerful filter for aquariums up to 300 L, creates... | 99,99 EUR | View product | |
| 2 |  | JBL CristalProfi e902 greenline external filter for aquariums | 104,99 EUR | View product | |
| 3 |  | Eheim 7006281 Professionel 4+ 350 external filter | 154,00 EUR | View product |
Criterion 5: The assembly options
Especially with the external filters there are a lot of possibilities for assembly. Here you can use everything from filter gravel to filter floss. Different filter sponges are also possible. peat filtering can also be applied. With the internal filters you usually have fewer options. Nevertheless, the larger models also offer some scope for assembly. Depending on the attitude and profile of the respective fish, you should get more information here. This is the only way to determine the need accordingly.
Criterion 6: The possibility of adjustments
Many new aquarium filters have electronic adjustment options. On the one hand, you can do a simulation of day and night there. Here the flow is varied differently. Sometimes there is a strong current and then again there is a weak current.
The cleaning of the filter is also indicated accordingly in the high-tech models. In addition, each filter should have the option of limiting the flow. You should definitely pay attention to that. The other setting options are not absolutely necessary. Nevertheless, this represents an optimal reproduction of the natural habitat. The current there is not always constant and varies.
In any case, you should be able to adjust the flow on the filter. This feature is absolutely necessary.
Criterion 7: The customers' opinions and the tests and ratings
Anyone who spends a lot of money on a new aquarium filter today should get the opinions of customers who have already bought such a model. Here you can find out relatively quickly where possible quirks lie or whether the customers are completely satisfied. In addition, tests are repeatedly offered by aquarists. Here you have a very quick overview of the function, quality and satisfaction of the device. Unfortunately, there will always be new filters where there are no tests or customer reviews.
Criterion 8: The price of the filter
Ultimately, the filter can be as good as it wants, if it doesn't fit the budget then it's of no use. The price is certainly always a decisive criterion before making a purchase. Depending on the size, you can spend a few euros up to hundreds of euros here. There are also big differences between the different manufacturers such as Eheim, Juwel, Fluval, Tetra and many lesser-known manufacturers. That's why it's called comparison here. Be it the performance characteristics or the quality. The most expensive devices are not always the best.
Criterion 9: The choice of accessories
If you buy a filter, you should take a look at the accessories beforehand. Above all, the different filter media should be mentioned here. But not only that, but also connecting pieces. Hoses, jet pipes and outlets, intake hoses, diffusers and much more are offered by good and well-known manufacturers. This should influence the purchase decision accordingly, especially if you already know what you need.
Criterion 10: The choice of spare parts
Finally, the service also comes into play, because if you buy an aquarium filter for several hundred euros, it should last for some time (years). It may be necessary to replace certain parts due to defects or wear. Many manufacturers offer a wide range of service and spare parts. This should also be taken into account when making a purchase decision.
10 factors all of which should be taken into account. Of course there will not be the perfect aquarium filter and you will always have to find a consensus on certain points. Nevertheless, you should take your time and pay close attention to the advantages and disadvantages of each model.