Aquarium Filters Melbourne
Either you have an existing Aquarium and your current filter is not keeping it clean or you have just purchased yourself a new one and need the correct filter. We have stores located in Hoppers Crossing and Ferntree Gully.
If you are looking for a new filter for a new aquarium we can go through the different types of filters and which ones are more suitable for your aquarium.
Aquarium Filters are complicated so stick with us here at Waterlife and we will show you how EASY it can be.
First of all check out the video below of our store and our complete range of filtration then read on further down the page to explain as simply as possible ‘Aquarium Filters’.
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How to avoid the 7 BIGGEST Aquarium Mistakes
Types of Filtration
Before delving into the various types of Aquarium Filters, it’s essential to grasp the three primary forms of ‘Filtration’:
Mechanical Filtration:
This method involves passing water through a sponge or wool filter pad using either an air pump or water pump. The filter pad traps floating debris, effectively aiding in maintaining water cleanliness.
Biological Filtration:
Here, toxins and harmful substances like ammonia (resulting from fish waste) are eliminated from the water through the action of live bacteria. Filter media, often in the form of filter noodles, are placed inside the Aquarium Filter. As water flows through the filter, the live bacteria break down the harmful ammonia present in the aquarium. Given that ammonia is a significant threat to fish in aquariums, biological filtration holds paramount importance.
Chemical Filtration:
In this type of filtration, chemical media is introduced into the filter to facilitate water purification. These chemicals come in various forms, with the most commonly used ones being activated carbon, zeolite (known for its ammonia removal properties), and materials like peat moss or volcanic rock, which serve as phosphate removers. Chemical filtration aids in enhancing water quality within the aquarium.
Choosing the Right Aquarium Filter
Now here is the confusing bit for Aquarium Beginners. What type of Aquarium Filter does does your fish tank require? Do I need all 3 types? What water flow do I need for my size aquarium? Which filter do I choose?
The question you need to ask yourself is ‘How often do I want to be doing a 30% water change on my aquarium?’ If your answer is ‘as least as possible’ the best choice is definitely a Canister Filter.
Check out some photos below of Canister Filters and links for further information.
Click the links below for more detailed information on Filtration.
Aquarium Filters Melbourne – Prices
Prices for Canister filters vary between $150 up to $500 depending on the Warranty, Flow Rate, whether there is an Ultra Violet Steriliser, Type of Filter Media inside and obviously the quality.
At Waterlife we only stock the well-known brands that come with a minimum 3 year warranty so they will last longer.
BEWARE
of cheap no name brands of aquarium filters online because parts are either hard to get or non-existent especially a year or so down the track. We deal with these issues every day in our store. A customer buys a cheap filter and the tap breaks and parts aren’t available. They end up buying a quality aquarium filter and have the peace of mind for years to come.
Aquarium Filter Flow Rate
To determine the required flow rate for your Aquarium Filter, calculate how many litres of water in the aquarium. You can do this by multiplying the length x width x height in mm then divide x 1000.
Example
Suppose 90cm x 35cm x 45cm. Calculate .9 x .35 x .45 = .141 x 1000 = 141 Litres. Then multiply the litres x 4 (minimum). So the flow rate for 141 Litres will be 564 Litres per Hour minimum. We always recommend an aquarium filter around 700 litres per hour for an aquarium around 150 Litres.
If you are happy to change a minimum 30% of the water in your aquarium weekly, an Internal Filter may be adequate. Remember that you get what you pay for so obviously a $50 Internal Filter won’t do the job of a Canister Filter. Internal Filters generally only have ‘Mechanical Filtration’ therefore the regular water changes weekly are recommended to remove the harmful ammonia as there is no biological filter media.
Low Budget?
If your budget is low and you need to purchase an internal filter we recommend that you add a small amount of filter noodles inside the chamber that houses the sponge. You will need to remove some of the sponge to fit in the filter noodles. Also cut the sponge in half then alternate the cleaning. Always keep one sponge dirty as this is where the live bacteria lives.
There is also a budget range of filtration. Internal Sponge Filters which operate on air, Under Gravel Filters and Hang On Filters.
The first 2 mentioned are ‘Old Style Filters’ and modern technology have left this type behind (except for use in commercial breeding tanks for housing baby fish). The Hang on Filters work adequately however they require cartridges containing sponge and carbon which need to be changed monthly.
Visit our stores in Hoppers Crossing or Ferntree Gully today to discuss the best form of Aquarium Filter for your needs.
Ready to Buy an Aquarium Filter and live in Melbourne?
CLICK ‘Enquiry Button’ or CALL us now to discuss what Aquarium Filters are best suited for your needs.
Hoppers Crossing - 2/2 Shaft Court 3029
Ferntree Gully - Shop 58 Mountain Gate Shopping
Centre, Ferntree Gully Road 3156
Hoppers Crossing Opening Hours
Monday | 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM |
Tuesday | 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM |
Wednesday | 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM |
Thursday | 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM |
Friday | 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM |
Saturday | 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM |
Sunday | 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM |
Ferntree Gully Opening Hours
Monday | 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM |
Tuesday | 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM |
Wednesday | 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM |
Thursday | 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM |
Friday | 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM |
Saturday | 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM |
Sunday | 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM |
What Our Happy Customers Have To Say
Check out some testimonial videos of our happy customers below.
For inquiries, please fill out the form below and one of our staff will get in touch with you. Thank you for your interest in Waterlife Aquarium.
YOU CAN FIND US
Hoppers Crossing - 2/2 Shaft Court 3029
hoppers@waterlifeaquarium.com.au
(03) 8360 8880 or 1300 MY FISH
Ferntree Gully - Shop 58 Mountain Gate Shopping Centre, FG Road 3156
ferntreegully@waterlifeaquarium.com.au
(03) 9989 3344 or 1300 MY FISH
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