Aquarium Top Filter Vs Internal Filter
Keeping an aquarium is a fun and rewarding hobby for many people. However, it requires a lot of effort to keep the water clean and fresh for the fish and plants. One of the most important things to consider is the type of filter you use in your aquarium. There are two types of filters commonly used, which are the aquarium top filter and internal filter. In this article, we will discuss the differences between the two and help you choose the right filter for your aquarium.
Aquarium Top Filter
An aquarium top filter is a type of filter that sits on top of the aquarium. It is designed to pull water from the tank, filter it, and then return it back to the aquarium. The filter is usually equipped with a cartridge that contains filter media such as activated carbon, biological media, and mechanical filter pads. The filter cartridge needs to be replaced regularly to ensure that the filter continues to work effectively.
Aquarium top filters are easy to install and use. They are also easy to maintain and clean. They are usually recommended for smaller aquariums or aquariums with low to moderate stocking levels. However, they may not be suitable for larger aquariums or aquariums with high stocking levels as they may not be able to handle the filtration requirements of such aquariums.
Internal Filter
An internal filter is a type of filter that is placed inside the aquarium. It is designed to clean the water by pulling it through the filter media and then returning it back to the aquarium. The filter is usually equipped with a sponge or foam filter, and it may also have biological and mechanical filter media. The filter media needs to be cleaned regularly to ensure that the filter continues to work effectively.
Internal filters are suitable for both small and large aquariums. They are also suitable for aquariums with high stocking levels as they can handle the filtration requirements of such aquariums. They are usually recommended for aquariums with live plants as they provide better water circulation and oxygenation.
Which Filter to Choose
Choosing the right filter for your aquarium depends on several factors such as the size of your aquarium, the number of fish and plants, and your budget. If you have a small aquarium with low to moderate stocking levels, an aquarium top filter may be suitable for you. However, if you have a larger aquarium with high stocking levels or live plants, an internal filter may be a better choice.
It is important to remember that regardless of the type of filter you choose, regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to ensure that the filter continues to work effectively. You should also consider investing in a good quality filter media to ensure that your aquarium stays clean and healthy for your fish and plants.
Conclusion
Both aquarium top filters and internal filters have their pros and cons. It is important to choose the right filter for your aquarium based on your specific needs and requirements. Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to ensure that your filter continues to work effectively and keep your aquarium clean and healthy.
