Aquariums are a beautiful addition to any home or office, but keeping the water clean and healthy for your aquatic pets requires some effort. An internal aquarium filter is one of the most important pieces of equipment for maintaining a healthy aquarium.
In this blog post, we'll review the top five options for internal aquarium filters, and we'll discuss what an internal aquarium filter is, why you need one, how to select the best one for your needs, how to install one, and tips on proper placement.
An internal aquarium filter is a type of filter that is designed to be a filter placed inside the aquarium. It is typically powered by an electric pump that draws water through the filter media, removing debris, impurities, and harmful chemicals from the water. Internal aquarium filters come in various shapes and sizes, and they can be used in freshwater and saltwater aquariums.
How We've Made Our Selection
There are so many different types of internal aquarium filters on the market that it can be tough to figure out which is best for you and your fish.
We've taken the time to research and select the best options for you. Our editors have examined each product's company, studied product specifics, read consumer feedback, and independently selected the best options. This ensures that the quality of each internal aquarium filter is right for you and your home.
Top 5 Best Internal Aquarium Filters
1. Tetra Internal Power Filter, Whisper Filtration
The Tetra Internal Power Filter Whisper Filtration is the quietest internal aquarium filter on the market. It is an all-in-one air pump and water filter system which is designed to provide efficient and effective filtration for aquariums. With its universal design, this filter is suitable for a variety of tank sizes and types.
The internal design of the Tetra Filter is one of its greatest strengths. It mounts on the inside of your aquarium with a clip (included), making it a space-saving and convenient option for aquarium owners. The filter is also designed to catch debris and fish waste with its dense, dual-sided mesh, ensuring a clean and healthy environment for aquatic creatures.
With its air-driven design, the Tetra Filter filters up to 170 GPH while oxygenating the water. This feature is especially beneficial for aquariums with high oxygen demand, ensuring your fish and other aquatic creatures have the ideal environment to thrive in.
The Tetra Filter also uses large, easy-to-change Bio-Bag cartridges, making maintenance and cleaning a breeze. The filter mounts inside the aquarium, making it possible to place the tank flush against the wall, which is ideal for aquarium owners with limited space.
2. MarineLand Magnum Polishing Internal Canister Filter
Make aquarium maintenance easy with the Marineland Magnum Polishing Internal Canister Filter. This filter is designed to ensure clear, healthy water for your aquatic home without a hassle. With two refillable chambers ready to house carbon or customizable filter media, you can choose from everyday continuous three-stage filtration or polishing with the included micron cartridge - no priming necessary!
This powerful filter can process up to 290 gallons per hour and is ideal for aquariums up to 97 gallons, so you can trust it with larger tanks.
The black diamond premium activated carbon removes odors, discoloration, and water impurities, while the Rite-Size floss sleeve traps dirt and debris.
Thanks to its dual-chamber design, there is an expansive 153 square inches of surface area where Bio Spira bacteria can grow, neutralizing ammonia and nitrites. On top of that, a reusable pleated micron cartridge efficiently removes fine debris – leaving your water crystal clear!
Get the relaxed peace of mind knowing your fish are living in pristine conditions with the Marineland Magnum Polishing Internal Canister Filter.
3. Fluval Underwater Filter
Take your underwater aquarium experience to a whole new level with the Fluval U Series Underwater Filter!
It offers an efficient 3-stage filtration system, including BIOMAX biological filtering, that promotes a healthy aquatic environment.
The filter has adjustable settings so you can customize the flow output for maximum circulation and oxygenation, gentle ever for planted aquariums, or deepwater agitation. Its built-in flip-top lid allows easy access for maintenance or filter cartridge replacements.
This filter can be set vertically against the aquarium wall or horizontally in shallow water tanks to create currents and custom water flow patterns. It's even great for decorating your tank with waterfalls and other stylistic elements!
With its top-of-the-line features, user-friendly design, and budget-friendly price tag, the Fluval Underwater Filter is sure to make your aquarium experience truly enjoyable.
4. Aqueon QuietFlow Internal Power Filter
The Aqueon QuietFlow Internal Power Filter is an efficient and reliable choice for aquarium owners looking for a powerful, easy-to-use internal filter. With a range of features designed to improve water quality and reduce the frequency of water changes, this filter is a great investment for any aquarium enthusiast.
Installation is one of the most appealing features of QuietFlow. The filter comes with suction cups and/or hanging clips, making it simple to attach to the side of your tank. The auto-start pump also requires no priming, so it automatically restarts if the power is interrupted and restored.
This internal filter is also effective at cleaning and filtering water. It comes with external filters: a carbon cartridge for chemical filtration, a bioholster to foster biological filtration, and a coarse media sponge for mechanical filtration. These elements remove odors, discoloration, particles, debris, and toxic ammonia and nitrites from the water.
The QuietFlow E is designed for aquariums up to 20 gallons in size, making it a great option for small to medium-sized tanks. It efficiently cleans and filters water while remaining relatively quiet, ensuring a peaceful environment for your fish tanks and aquatic creatures.
5. Sun JUP-02 Aquarium Submersible Machine
The Sun JUP-02 is a 4-in-1 machine that functions as a filter, deodorizer, air pump, and water pump. It helps to improve water quality, remove odors, and reduce the frequency of water changes, providing your fish with a crystal-clear environment.
One of the most impressive features of the JUP-02 is its versatility. It can be used in freshwater and saltwater aquariums, making it a great option for aquarium owners with various aquatic creatures. Additionally, the machine is suitable for small tanks between 10-40 gallons in size, with a flow rate of 132 gallons per hour.
The JUP-02 filter unit is also designed to increase oxygen in the water, which is essential for the health of your fish and other aquatic creatures. You can adjust the oxygen levels according to your needs, ensuring that your fish have the ideal environment to thrive in.
After running the machine continuously for 2-3 days, you will start to see the water quality improvement, and the water becomes clearer gradually. The machine does an excellent job of filtering and deodorizing the water, and it's easy to clean and maintain.
The JUP-02 also comes with a 1-year warranty. The manufacturer will provide support and assistance for any problems or questions.
Why Do You Need an Internal Aquarium Filter?
There are several reasons why an internal aquarium filter is an essential piece of equipment for any aquarium owner:
- Maintaining water quality: An internal aquarium filter helps to remove debris, impurities, and harmful chemicals from the water, which helps to maintain a healthy environment for your aquatic creatures.
- Preventing disease: A dirty aquarium can be a breeding ground for bacteria and other pathogens that can make your fish sick. A good internal aquarium filter can help prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria, keeping your aquarium healthy and disease-free.
- Improving oxygenation: A filter that circulates water through the aquarium helps improve oxygenation and water flow, improving the health of your fish and other aquatic creatures.
- Reducing maintenance: With an internal aquarium filter, you'll spend less time manually cleaning your aquarium, as the filter will do much of the work for you.
An internal aquarium filter is a crucial component of any healthy aquarium. It helps to maintain water quality, prevent disease, improve oxygenation, and reduce maintenance, making it a must-have for any aquarium owner.
Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Internal Aquarium Filter
When it comes to choosing the best internal aquarium filter for your aquarium, there are several factors you should consider. These include tank size and flow rate, filtration type and media, noise level and energy consumption, and maintenance requirements.
Tank Size and Flow Rate:
When choosing an internal aquarium filter, the first factor to consider is your tank size and the required flow rate. The flow rate of your fish tank filter should match the size of your tank, as well as the needs of the aquatic creatures living in it. A filter that is too small for your tank will not be able to handle the filtration needs, while a filter that is too large can create too much water movement, which can stress your fish and other aquatic creatures.
Filtration Type and Media:
Another factor to consider is the type of filter and the media used in it. There are three types of filtration: mechanical, biological, and chemical. Mechanical filtration removes debris and particles from the water, biological filtration promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria, and chemical filtration removes impurities from the water. Consider the needs of your aquarium and choose a filter that has the appropriate type of filtration and media for your aquatic creatures.
Noise Level and Energy Consumption:
Some filters create an unnecessary amount of noise, which can be a nuisance in a quiet room. Additionally, some filters can use a lot of energy, which can add to your electricity bill. Look for filters that operate quietly and efficiently, and consider the impact on your energy bill.
Maintenance Requirements:
The fourth factor to consider is the maintenance requirements of the filter. Some filters require frequent cleaning and replacement of filter media, while others require minimal maintenance. Consider how much time and effort you're willing to put into maintaining your filter, and choose one that fits your needs.
Type of Aquarium:
Another factor to consider is the type of aquarium you have. For example, a planted aquarium may require a filter that does not disrupt the substrate or damage delicate plant roots. Similarly, a reef aquarium may require a filter that can handle the high level of waste produced by corals and other invertebrates.
Budget:
Budget is another important factor to consider when choosing an internal aquarium filter. Prices can vary widely depending on the size and features of the filter. Set a budget and look for a filter that meets your needs while staying within your price range.
Brand Reputation of Internal Filters:
Consider the reputation of the brand when choosing an internal aquarium filter. Look for well-known brands with a good track record for producing high-quality and reliable products. Read reviews and ask other aquarium owners for their recommendations.
Compatibility with Other Equipment:
Consider whether the filter is compatible with other equipment in your aquarium, such as heaters, lighting, and protein skimmers. Some filters may interfere with the performance of other equipment or require additional modifications to work properly.
When choosing the best internal aquarium filter for your aquarium, it's important to consider the type of internal aquarium filter you work for, your budget, the brand's reputation, and compatibility with other equipment.
Considering these factors, you can find a filter that meets your needs while keeping your aquarium healthy and clean.
How to Install an Internal Aquarium Filter
Installing an internal aquarium filter is a fairly straightforward process that can be done in only a few steps. Here's a step-by-step guide to installing an internal aquarium filter:
Step 1: Choose the Right Size and Type of Filter
Select a filter that is appropriate for the size of your tank and the type of aquarium you have. Make sure to read the manufacturer's instructions to ensure that the filter is suitable for your tank.
Step 2: Choose the Right Location
Choose a location inside the tank where the filter will be easily accessible and will not interfere with other equipment, such as heaters or protein skimmers. Leave enough space in the internal fish tank for your aquatic creatures to swim freely.
Step 3: Attach Suction Cups
Attach the suction cups to the bottom of the filter and use them to secure the filter inside the tank.
Step 4: Install the Filter Media
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to install the filter media, such as foam, sponge, or ceramic rings, into the filter.
Step 5: Connect the Filter to the Pump
Connect the filter to the pump by attaching the intake tube to the filter and the outflow tube to the pump.
Step 6: Plug in the Pump
Plug in the pump and turn it on to start the filtration process. Adjust the flow rate if necessary to avoid too much water movement in the tank.
Tips for Ensuring Proper Placement and Setup
Here are some tips to ensure that you install your internal aquarium filter properly:
- Place the filter in an area where it won't be disturbed by other equipment or decorative elements in the tank.
- Make sure to choose a filter appropriate for your tank's size and the type of aquatic creatures you have.
- Check the manufacturer's instructions for guidance on installing the filter and how often to clean or replace the filter media.
Common mistakes to avoid:
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when installing an internal aquarium filter:
- Installing the filter in an area that creates too much water movement or disturbs your aquatic creatures.
- Choosing a filter that is too small for your tank can lead to poor filtration and water quality.
- Not cleaning or replacing the filter media regularly can lead to the buildup of harmful bacteria and impurities in the water.
In conclusion, installing an internal aquarium filter is a straightforward process that requires careful consideration of the right size, location, and type of filter. By following the manufacturer's instructions and taking care to avoid common mistakes, you can ensure that your filter works properly and keeps your aquarium healthy and clean.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an internal aquarium filter and an external aquarium filter?
Internal aquarium filters are placed inside the aquarium, while external ones is placed on the outside. Both filters have advantages and disadvantages, but internal filters are generally more compact and easier to install.
How often do I need to clean my internal aquarium filter?
The frequency of cleaning your internal aquarium filter will depend on several factors, such as the size of your tank, the number of fish and other aquatic creatures in the tank, and the filter media you use. Cleaning your internal fish tank filter every two to four weeks is recommended.
Can I use an internal aquarium filter in a saltwater aquarium?
Yes, you can use an internal aquarium filter in a saltwater aquarium. Just make sure to choose a filter that is appropriate for the size of your tank and the needs of your saltwater creatures.
How do I know what size internal aquarium filter to use for my tank?
To determine the appropriate size of the internal aquarium filter for your tank, you'll need to consider the size of your tank water itself, the flow rate of the filter, and the needs of your aquatic creatures. Choose a filter that can handle at least four times the volume of your tank per hour.
Can an internal aquarium filter be used for a planted aquarium?
Yes, you can use an internal aquarium filter for a planted aquarium. Just make sure to choose a filter that does not disturb the substrate or damage delicate plant roots.
How can I reduce the noise level of my internal aquarium filter?
To reduce the noise level of your internal aquarium filter, you can try adjusting the flow rate, using foam or sponge media, or placing the filter on a soft surface to absorb vibrations. You can also look for internal fish tank filters specifically designed to operate quietly.
How do I know if my internal aquarium filter is working properly?
You can check if your internal aquarium filter works properly by observing the water flow and ensuring the filter media is clean and functioning. You can also monitor the water quality in your fish tank and look for signs of debris or impurities.
What Option of Best Internal Aquarium Filter is Best for You?
Ultimately, there is no definitive answer regarding picking the best internal aquarium filter. What matters is that you make an informed decision based on your preferences and lifestyle. Every aquarium keeper has their own unique needs and goals. With a careful understanding of how each filter works differently, you can create the best environment for your fish.
We understand if trying to pick out the perfect internal aquarium filter seems difficult, but have faith in yourself-you and have the knowledge within you to make a great choice!
At the end of it all, having a successful tank setup will be worth every moment of research or decision-making process.
With this knowledge, we wish you luck finding the perfect internal aquarium filter for your home!
Items reviewed:
1. Tetra Internal Power Filter, Whisper Filtration
2. MarineLand Magnum Polishing Internal Canister Filter
