If you want to invest in an aquarium with domestic fish, you know for sure how important it is to choose the right equipment for them to have a good life, enough oxygen, and food, but also good care. However, there are so many things to keep in mind when choosing a filter, such as the quality of the water you use, the types of fish in the aquarium, the instructions you receive from the breeders, and where the entire system will be placed.
Your aquarium is a complete ecosystem for your fish, and it should be similar to their natural habitat. But, we all know that water can easily get dirty, and you need to clean it regularly, so you can protect the beings living there, including the water plants too. In nature, the water is cleaned and well-maintained by itself, but that’s not really possible with your big box at home. That’s why all the professional growers will recommend using a water filter, so it can destroy the bacteria and algae, and fill the tank up with enough oxygen for the fish to survive. So, we can say that a good filter must provide mechanical, chemical, and bacterial filtration, and that’s crucial for you to have healthy and happy tiny fish.
In order to do that, you need to pay attention to the complete concept of your tank but still manage to invest in a good filter. Our article and Paint a Fish will help you figure that out.
1. Listen to the grower’s recommendation
Source: itsafishthing.com
This person knows the fish so well, and they are aware of their basic needs. So, when they tell you to invest in a particular brand with some exact features, you probably have to listen to them. Don’t be that person who thinks they are trying to sell you some product because they earn more money from it. When it comes to pets, and yes, fish are pets, you need to take care of them properly.
2. Understand the stages of filtration
Source: vivofish.com
It’s not enough just to pour fresh water into the tank. You can’t wash it all the time too, because fish may suffer some shock because of that. Maintaining the temperature is just one of the crucial things you can do for the tank. The filter is the part that takes care of keeping a good water quality. Mechanical filtration includes removing the debris and dirt from the aquarium, ensuring there is nothing to mess with the balance. When the waste is decomposing in the water, it changes the quality, and some fish may get sick or die because of that. By using active carbon or other chemicals, the filter absorbs the toxins, ensuring every fish in the tank is getting the best life there. And of course, bacterial filtration is an advanced level of cleaning the tank. But, make sure that it doesn’t destroy the good bacteria too, because that may lead to broken balance in that tiny habitat.
3. Understand the types of filters
Source: aquariumcoop.com
There are so many of them, and you need to find the right one for you. The corner filters are installed in the corner of the tank, and they are pretty gentle. Because of their size, they are not the most wanted choice. They can be very visible, and affect the natural looks you are trying to copy. Under gravel, devices are a better choice for that. They look like a plate, and you install them first and then pour gravel over them. Keep in mind that their chemical features are excellent, but the mechanical ones are not that good, because they are literally below the gravel, and their physical filters are full of dust and dirt. That means you will need to maintain it regularly. And remember, they are good for mechanic and biological filtration, but you will have to use additives for chemical cleaning.
Sponge filters are great for smaller aquariums with just a few fish inside, or for those who can live in every habitat. It collects the debris and can enrich the water too, but it’s not a good chemical filter. And of course, the power filters are those that include all the types of filtration. You can use them for larger tanks, and it’s indeed an advanced type of filter that covers most of your needs.
Also, you need to be aware of the canister filters too, because they are bigger devices you need to install under the tank. So, you are getting a quality filter, that is very big, so you have to plan on how to put it under the tank and where to install the complete aquarium. It requires regular maintenance too, but you really don’t need something like that for smaller tanks with just a few fish inside.
4. Be aware of the potential mistakes
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Regular maintenance is what’s needed for the fish to stay healthy. You must clean the gravel, wash the tank, clean the filter, but make sure you don’t kill the beneficial bacteria. Always make sure that the filter fits the aquarium because not every type of it is suitable for them all. As a responsible owner, you need to follow the instructions and don’t do anything before you consult with a professional. After you gain enough experience and knowledge, you will be able to maintain it properly by yourself.
You can also visit the site for more information about fishes and aquariums.
Conclusion
The size and type of the tank is the first important thing you need to keep in mind when buying a new filter. Also, consult with the seller, and they will help you choose it according to the fish that will live there. They know what they need to survive, so it’s better to follow their instructions because filtration is imperative for those who want to have an aquarium at home.
All the things we mentioned are possible only if you find a reliable salesperson and store, who know their job, and know how to help the customers make the right choice. We hope this article was helpful for you to understand the importance of tank filters.
