Are canister filters good for saltwater tanks?
We know we need to filter our saltwater tanks, but is it necessary to buy an expensive sump system when you already own an external filter? Saltwater aquariums require mechanical, biological and chemical filtration, what is the best way to do it?
Canister filters have the ability to handle all of an aquarium’s filtration needs, but fear of the ‘nitrate factory’ and the maintenance required have many saltwater hobbyists turning to alternative options.
To help you decide whether to use an external filter or an alternative system, this article will answer the question can I use an external filter for a saltwater tank?
Use of an external filter as the only filtration system
Many people use a single external filter as the sole means of filtering the aquarium, and as long as it is kept clean and regularly maintained, there is no reason why you need to use it in conjunction with other systems (but it is arguably a better option).
In terms of mechanical filtration functionality, it attracts small, free-floating pieces of particulate matter and effectively removes it from the water. However, you may prefer to use a different device for mechanical filtration, such as an under gravel filter.
It’s also great for getting rid of those little white specs you see floating around in your tank, or to put it more technically, the larval blooms of copepods and amphipods. But in general, these filters, in my opinion, are best used during tank cleaning for their mechanical filtration functionality.
When you need to improve the quality of your saltwater, you’ll need a chemical filtration system. You can boost the mechanical filtration capacity of your canister by placing granular activated carbon in the media chamber, which will help remove odors and contaminants.
Many of these filters are designed primarily for their biological filtration capabilities and usually work quite well with smaller aquariums. Although, in my opinion, it would be better not to rely on the vessel solely for larger tanks.
Using an external filter with various filtration systems
Canister filters require cleaning at least once a month to maintain their effectiveness, which is why you might consider using it in conjunction with other filtration systems to avoid problems that can occur when a filter becomes too clogged.
I would certainly suggest using at least one other system for biological filtration, such as live rock or a trickling wet/dry filter. Most cartridge filters do not have the capacity for the amount of organic media needed to effectively remove contaminants from the water.
At a minimum, you should use two hanging canister filters for medium sized tanks, but I would suggest looking for another source of biological filtration along with a canister filter for larger tanks.
I can imagine that saving money is a huge factor in why you’re wondering about the usefulness of canister filters for saltwater aquariums, but I suggest you at least consider a sump system if you want a long lasting single filtration system.
Considerations – Water Flow Rate
You can usually find out the flow rate of your filter by referring to the manual or instructions, but keep in mind that the measurement you read is usually based on the filter not having to pump water up.
If you use additional materials, which could include sponge, dental floss, or micron pleat cartridges, in the media chamber in an attempt to improve the filtration capabilities of your canister, you will likely decrease the flow rate of your filter and, in fact, reduce its effectiveness.
If you plan to store your container at the bottom of your aquarium, the pressure from the head will likely reduce your maximum water flow and consequently negatively affect its usefulness as well. Also, your item may have to work harder and result in higher energy bills.
Consideration: the ‘nitrate factory’.
As I mentioned, one of the problems associated with external filters is how often they require cleaning to avoid a nitrate problem. Nitrate problems are most often due to a buildup of debris and debris that rots and decomposes inside the filter.
Unfortunately, this ‘nitrate factory’ effect is often unavoidable, especially in saltwater aquariums. You should try to keep your nitrate levels in saltwater tanks below 5 ppm, as higher levels can result in excessive algae growth.
A manageable amount of algae growth is actually quite healthy for your aquarium, but too much of it results in high phosphate levels, and that can be very unhealthy for your fish, not to mention that algae can be difficult to remove once it has settled. the problem is already solved. of control.
Maintenance
The biggest factor affecting those in the ‘no’ camp regarding the question ‘can I use a canister filter for a salt water tank?’ is your need for regular cleaning. You may have liked the idea of a boat if you are a reef beginner, but monthly maintenance is required.
You can learn how to clean an external filter for use in your aquarium, but it involves breaking down the components, cleaning the individual parts before reassembling. To avoid algae growth and nitrate problems in saltwater, you will need to clean it often.
If you don’t keep up with maintenance, you also risk other harmful contaminants being pumped back into the tank, in addition to the risk of algae, phosphates, and nitrates.
So are canister filters suitable for saltwater tanks? If you’re just getting over your freshwater days and have a canister filter to spare, I’d say you can go ahead and use it in your saltwater aquarium until you can switch to a different system.
However, if you are a passionate saltwater aquarium hobbyist, I would suggest installing a sump system because I believe they have superior efficiency compared to any other system, but they are not the cheapest or simplest filters to install.
Do you agree with my opinion? Is there something I’ve missed? What are your experiences with using an external filter for a saltwater tank? Drop a comment below and share what’s on your mind.
The verdict
So are canister filters suitable for saltwater tanks? If you’re just getting over your freshwater days and have a canister filter to spare, I’d say you can go ahead and use it in your saltwater aquarium until you can switch to a different system.
If you intend to use cartridge filters on an ongoing basis, you can opt for a product like the API FilStar XP-XL series which is already loaded with features to take care of all mechanical, biological and chemical filtration systems.
However, if you are a passionate saltwater aquarium hobbyist, I would suggest installing a sump system because I believe they have superior efficiency compared to any other system, but they are not the cheapest or simplest filters to install.
Do you agree with my opinion? Is there something I’ve missed? What are your experiences with using an external filter for a saltwater tank? Drop a comment below and share what’s on your mind.
