HOB Filter on 40 Gallon Reef

[Pea Puffer 67]

Hello! I am considering buying a 40b tank for saltwater and I’m thinking of experimenting and using a HOB filter. Now I know a HOB filter will NEVER be as good as a good old sump but I believe it can come somewhat close. I would put in some chemi pure blue, a poly filter pad, and possibly some carbon every month or so. Now since I’m not a pro at this yet, I need suggestions. What are some upgrades I can do to turn a HOB filter into a good filtering machine for a Reef?

 

[geddavis]

for polishing that is fine however depending on your stocking you may want a HOB skimmer. I have also seen people use HOB refugiums but I have never used one and so can not talk about how good they are. I would agree that with a properly sized HOB filter you should be fine. I would recommend something that is rated for a tank twice as large so a hob rated for 80gs or more.

 

[cww81]

The Aquaclear 70 HOB Filter is one I recommend because I use It personally. I did a lot of research when I was in your position and found out this was the best choice because the media chamber is quite large. You can even find threads on here where people mod It into a refugium. I also agree with geddavis that you will need a skimmer as well, i'm running both and my mini reef is doing great.

 

[newbie2014]

That’s should be fine.
When I switched from FW, I try to use what I had on hand, HOB ( AC110) and Eheim canister. Since you have to clean the sponge more often, it would be much easier with a HOB filter. In the first year or so, I also used a HOB Aquamax skimmer to solve GHA and phosphate issues. I also acquired a TLF reactor, which I use now for GAC.

As you see my tank only has a mechanical/chemical filtration in a form of a carbon reactor, which I’m running 24/7.

sorry for the blue iPhone picture