Habitat - Indoor :: type/size of filter for 150 gallon tank

[bradhart]

I know this has probably been asked 100 times, but I can't find an answer when I search for it. I'm getting a 150 gallon tank (1/2 inch glass). I need a new filter, but there's so many kinds out there, I have no idea what kind to get. UGF, external, bio-wheel, I have no idea. The tank has 2 threaded bulkheads on the bottom, but I don't know if there's a filter that can use those. Can anyone point me in the right direction for researching it?

[N4784N R4613]

Do you know if the tank has overflow boxes(just a glass, or plastic "box" around the bulkheads)? And with tanks this big you should go with a canister filter.

[bradhart]

from the pictures, I don't think there are overflow boxes. I'll start looking into canister. thanks

[WyredHardware]

I am a recent fan of canister filters. I got one of the Eheim classic series canister filters. It is super quiet and does a great job.

[steve]

Hey.. whats up?

Are the bulkheads set to be used with a sump? I would look into an XP4, Eheim Pro or the Fluval FX5. If those are out of your price range, I'd go with a XP3 and an Aquaclear 110.. which is what I'm using in my 125 gallon.

[bradhart]

steve,

That sounds good. I have an AC110 already.

[bradhart]

does a sump pump act as a filter? I'm new to the world of large tanks... I can handle small, but this is my first big one.

[N4784N R4613]

No, the sump just pumps the water to the filter, which, in most cases, is a customized wet/dry filter.

Which looks something like this...

[DavidY]

Just cap off the bulkheads on the bottom and make sure to use teflon tape on the cap threads for a good tight seal. If you do decide to use the bulkheads and a sump or wetdry filter, you will need to use a standpipe in each one set to the height that you want the water level to be. Then use flex tubing or pvc to plumb the tank to the sump beneath. Water will then overflow into the pipes and down to your sump. That way you can put your heater in the sump along with the filtration, etc. You then will need a water pump to get the water from the sump back up to the tank. It's a great way to get all the wires and junk out of the display tank and it will also keep the water level the same in the main tank (good for the basking ramp).