I have a 55 gallon (overstocked). I run an Aqua Clear 70, Fluval C4, Seachem Tidal 75, and a Fluval U3. I use sponges, Filter floss, matrix, biomax and an 11.74 ounce bag of Chemi-pure elite. The Aqua Clear 70 and Fluval C4 have Filter Max prefilters. All my water perimeters are perfect and the tank is crystal clear. I purchased all of them except the Aqua Clear out of curiosity.
I love the Aqua Clear and the C4.
The Tidal 75; Works well, but requires to much maintenance. If you don't clean it once a week, you get to much by-pass. The odd shape of the filter basket makes cutting sponges difficult. The media basket is huge, but if you fill it more than 3/4 full, you either have to turn the flow down to approximately 50% or live with the by pass.
The Fluval U3; not really sure what to think. I guess it works, but it really doesn't seem to get dirty and the flow isn't very strong. I left it stock and i imagine the biological media is helping. Not sure I would buy another. Yes it is to small for my 55, I just wanted to test one. I imagine they all work at some level, but the Aqua Clear and Fluval C4 are the best in my opinion. I would much prefer a canister, but the tank location doesn't allow it. This set up will make cycling a new 55 we are soon to purchase much easier.
I love the Aqua Clear and the C4.
The Tidal 75; Works well, but requires to much maintenance. If you don't clean it once a week, you get to much by-pass. The odd shape of the filter basket makes cutting sponges difficult. The media basket is huge, but if you fill it more than 3/4 full, you either have to turn the flow down to approximately 50% or live with the by pass.
The Fluval U3; not really sure what to think. I guess it works, but it really doesn't seem to get dirty and the flow isn't very strong. I left it stock and i imagine the biological media is helping. Not sure I would buy another. Yes it is to small for my 55, I just wanted to test one. I imagine they all work at some level, but the Aqua Clear and Fluval C4 are the best in my opinion. I would much prefer a canister, but the tank location doesn't allow it. This set up will make cycling a new 55 we are soon to purchase much easier.
