Which filter should I get?

[Bronest!]

Hello! Im setting up a 40 gallon tank and I wanted to know if its best to have a internal canister filter or a HOB filter? I already have a fluval AC50 running on it but I wanted to know if there are better options out there.

I'm planning to have coral and a few fishes here and there.

 

[FUNGI]

IMO....you can't beat Fluval, either AC110 for HOB or 407 for canister. Tons of media space in both. Heck, if you can find a used FX2 even better....wont even need tank internal wavemakers with teh output on that.

 

[FUNGI]

I'll let others speak to getting the tank drilled and a sump etc etc.......

 

[Bronest!]

IMO....you can't beat Fluval, either AC110 for HOB or 407 for canister. Tons of media space in both. Heck, if you can find a used FX2 even better....wont even need tank internal wavemakers with teh output on that.

What about the 207? Would the work the same?

 

[twentyleagues]

I agree with @FUNGI with either a 110 hob or the external canister. I personally wouldnt use a internal on an actual reef tank maybe a qt tank. I used the biggest tidal on a 40g tank and that was pretty nice too. Not as much internal space as the 110 but the pump being submerged is very nice.

 

[FUNGI]

207 is ok....but Petsmart is having their sale:

$60 dollar difference in cost, but 407 is 100x better....IMO

 

[FUNGI]

if you decide on the HOB, I would get the 110 from Petco....$20 cheaper than Petsmart.....Tidal is a good filter too, but lacks the media space.

 

[FUNGI]

and finally, don't let anyone tell you that can't keep a reef tank with a HOB or a Canister.....

IMPOSSIBLE: MIXED REEF RUNNING ON CANISTERS

I was once told that it would not be possible for me to have a mixed reef running on canisters...its a set-up for failure. You can only keep softies....... Well, here is a little slice from my 125G. Equipment: 3 FX6's filled with LR - Once a year clean tub out/motor clean 1 Icecap K3-250 Skimmer...

www.reef2reef.com

 

[FUNGI]

If you decide you want a skimmer, I have a Remora you can have free...just needs pump and you cover shipping from 91344

 

[JusMeJim]

and finally, don't let anyone tell you that can't keep a reef tank with a HOB or a Canister.....

IMPOSSIBLE: MIXED REEF RUNNING ON CANISTERS

I was once told that it would not be possible for me to have a mixed reef running on canisters...its a set-up for failure. You can only keep softies....... Well, here is a little slice from my 125G. Equipment: 3 FX6's filled with LR - Once a year clean tub out/motor clean 1 Icecap K3-250 Skimmer...

www.reef2reef.com

I did just that for about 15 years (fish only) back in the day. HOB filter, skimmer, and appropriate amount of live rock. I now plan on doing it again with fish and corals. Just not willing to take a chance on a sump overflowing.

 

[MC Blowfish]

Seachem Tidal filters came highly recommended when I setup my tank. I have a Seachem Tidal on my 20 gallon. It does a great job with my tank.