Equipment Review and Discussion :: How loud are powerhead filters?

[biomanz]

I'm deciding between a Marineland Penguin and a Hagen Aquaclear to hang to the back, but not sure how loud and smooth the water stream is. I just got a 40g tank and the water level is around 5in below the top, so I'm guessing the water sound will be quite loud. I was hoping the output hits the water as a steady stream without splashing.

The alternative is an internal filter, a Fluval 3+.

I don't have the space for an external filter.

What do you think of these filters? Of course, better alternatives would be appreciated.

[Caphits]

I am running 2 HOT filters. You kinda get used to the noise. I have no experience with these filters though.

You could always go with some sort of canister filter...

[Rubicon]

A few people here have siliconed a thin piece of acrylic to the water fall part so the filtered water just runs into the tank.

[grem89]

What you could also do is get an old filter pad and stick it under the output (the same as recomended with the plexiglass) so the water trickles down that into the water. It can act as a great bio media in this situation.

[seanwb]

A Fluval 3+ would be a poor choice for a 40g tank.

It will turn the tank over at nearly 5x per hour, but it has a very small filtering area.

It is only rated for 34g fish tank. You really need to be looking at something rated for a tank of 80g+ for a turtle (some will say 120g+).

[Chrisbarnett]

Also, Vinyl tubing sliced and slipped over the lip will work too.

The pumps on these filters can also be kind of loud. All the Marinelands I have are loud compared to canister filters. And so is the one Aquaclear I have.

[biomanz]

Actually I'm gonna settle with the Fluval as the HOB filters probably can't reach down (according to the store worker) to my water level and the water will splash too far down. My tank won't be filled with 40 gallons, more like less than 30, so I'll give the 3 plus a try.

[Bascomb]

Try and get a canister as it is more efficient and easier to clean and quieter. They cost a little more but worth it. b.

[Rubicon]

I've got a used Fluval 4+ if interested.

[biomanz]

Already got the 3+ and non-refundable now. >< Thx though!