Filter

[darrenahenson]

Is having a filter necessary in a saltwater tank. I ahve a 30 gallon with live rock and live sand. I also have a penguin bio wheel filter going. Do I need a filter also?

 

[DJ_Z]

I'm confused. You have a biowheel filter going, so are you asking if you need another back-hanging filter? Or were you asking about a skimmer or sump?

 

[darrenahenson]

Yea, it's a hang on filter. The question was is having a hang on filter necessary?

 

[Sidekick41]

If you have the right amount of live rock you do not need a filter period. Just make sure you have 1-2 pounds of rock for every gallon of water.

 

[darrenahenson]

It's a 29 gallon tank with 30 gallons of live rock. Would a hang on filter increase the nitrates?

 

[Sidekick41]

Yes it would so I would get rid of it.

 

[darrenahenson]

Do you use one with your tank?

 

[Sidekick41]

No I have a 55 Gallon with Live rock and my water is perfect.

 

[darrenahenson]

Do you use a sump or skimmer

 

[reefnoob]

When I had a canister filter, my nitrates were sky high. Within 3 days of detaching it (as well as a water change) my nitrates immediately dropped.

 

[ErinCahir]

+1 to the 1-2 pounds of rock per gallon.

Water changes are also necessary. The HOB (penguin) is not.