“Alright, I remember when I first dove into setting up my aquarium. I thought, ‘How hard could it be?’ You get some fish, a tank, and you’re good to go, right? Wrong. The moment I noticed murky water and stressed fish, I knew I had a problem. Turns out, the filter I was using was not up to par. That’s when I started researching the best external filter fish tanks, especially those available in the UK, and I learned quite a bit. Here’s the lowdown.”
Best External Filters for Fish Tanks in the UK
When it comes to keeping your fish healthy and your aquarium water crystal clear, an external filter is a game-changer. These powerful units sit outside the tank, providing superior filtration without taking up valuable space inside. Let’s dive into the top options available in the UK.
1. Fluval FX6 High-Performance Canister Filter
When it comes to heavy-duty filtration, the Fluval FX6 is an absolute powerhouse. It’s known for handling large aquariums up to 1500 litres, making it perfect for those serious about their fishkeeping.
- Features:
- Multi-stage filtration with biological, mechanical, and chemical media.
- Smart Pump technology for efficient performance.
- Self-priming feature – no manual siphoning needed.
- Easy water change system.
- Pros:
- Excellent for large tanks.
- Very quiet operation.
- High water flow rate (up to 3500 L/hr).
- Cons:
- Bulky and heavy – not suitable for small tanks.
- Higher price point.
2. Eheim Professional 4+ 600
Eheim is a brand that always comes up in conversations about reliable aquarium equipment, and the Professional 4+ 600 is no exception. This model is great for tanks up to 600 litres and offers a balanced combination of power, efficiency, and ease of use.
- Features:
- Integrated ‘Xtender’ button to bypass clogged media.
- High-performance ceramic shaft for durability.
- Low energy consumption.
- Pros:
- Self-priming and easy to maintain.
- Silent operation.
- Trusted brand with great customer support.
- Cons:
- Smaller capacity compared to some competitors.
- Pricier than entry-level options.
3. Oase Biomaster Thermo 600
If you’re looking for an all-in-one solution that takes care of both filtration and heating, the Oase Biomaster Thermo 600 is a fantastic choice. It’s designed for tanks up to 600 litres and comes with an integrated heater.
- Features:
- Easy Clean pre-filter module.
- Built-in heater for precise temperature control.
- Adjustable flow rate.
- Pros:
- Saves space inside the tank by combining filtration and heating.
- Efficient and easy to clean.
- High-quality build.
- Cons:
- More expensive due to integrated features.
- Requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal heating performance.
4. Tetra EX 1200 Plus
The Tetra EX 1200 Plus is a popular choice for medium to large aquariums, handling up to 500 litres. This model is known for its affordability and ease of use.
- Features:
- Multi-stage filtration for optimal water quality.
- Quick-start mechanism for easy setup.
- Sturdy construction with robust hose fittings.
- Pros:
- Good value for the money.
- Easy to assemble and maintain.
- Reliable brand with years of experience.
- Cons:
- Not the quietest model on the market.
- Occasional reports of leaks if not assembled correctly.
5. Aquael Ultramax 2000
For those with larger tanks and a need for serious filtration, the Aquael Ultramax 2000 offers an impressive 2000 litres per hour flow rate and is designed for aquariums up to 700 litres.
- Features:
- Pre-filter cleaning without opening the canister.
- Quiet operation due to high-quality bearings.
- Flexible media options.
- Pros:
- Great flow rate for larger tanks.
- Efficient and user-friendly design.
- Built-in flow control.
- Cons:
- Takes up more space compared to other models.
- Higher initial cost.
What to Consider When Choosing an External Filter
Selecting the right external filter for your fish tank is essential for maintaining a healthy environment for your fish. Here are some key factors to consider:
Filtration Power
- Tank Size: Ensure the filter matches the size of your tank. A filter that’s too weak won’t maintain water quality, while one that’s too strong could stress the fish.
- Flow Rate: Look for a filter with a flow rate that is about 5-10 times the volume of your tank per hour. For example, a 200-litre tank would need a filter with a flow rate of 1000-2000 L/hr.
Noise Levels
- Quiet Operation: Fish are sensitive to vibrations, and a noisy filter can be stressful. Consider filters known for their silent operation, like the Eheim or Oase models.
Ease of Maintenance
- Self-Priming: Models like the Fluval FX6 and Eheim Professional 4+ offer self-priming, making them easier to start after cleaning.
- Pre-Filter: Some filters, such as the Oase Biomaster, come with pre-filters that are easier to clean and prolong the life of the main filter media.
Additional Features
- Integrated Heater: Models like the Oase Biomaster Thermo save space and add convenience by including a built-in heater.
- Smart Technologies: Some filters come with smart features like the Fluval FX6’s Smart Pump technology, which optimizes performance and energy use.
Conclusion
So, what’s the best external filter for your fish tank in the UK? It all comes down to your specific needs—tank size, budget, noise tolerance, and additional features. Personally, I lean towards the Fluval FX6 for large setups due to its power and reliability. For smaller to medium tanks, the Eheim Professional 4+ 600 or the Oase Biomaster Thermo 600 offer fantastic performance with great additional features.
Make sure to match your filter choice with your tank’s needs, and you’ll keep that water crystal clear and your fish happy!