Chas' Compilation: Fish Tank Filters: HOB vs Old Fashioned Box
He pointed out that he uses them in all his tanks, and credits the filters with keeping the tanks so clear. When I told him I was running an Emperor 400 HOB filter, he promptly told me it was no good. There's a local fish shop in Lewiston, Maine I visit about every 2-3 weeks or so. The owner is a gentleman I'd guess to be about 70 years old who says he's been in the business for 40 years. For about $30, he set me up with 2 large filters, and enough carbon and polyester fiber to last at least a few years. but also stated that he's got filters he hasn't touched in 3 years. On the way home, I got to thinking about my little aging air pump, so I stopped at Walmart and picked up a more powerful Tetra Whisper Air Pump with dual air outlets for about $20. Less than an hour after I got home, both filters were up and running. He recommended that I install a couple large Lee's corner filters. The unit seems quite fragile and I imagine it wouldn't take much to break it. However, I'm already liking these filters. I'd estimate he's got well over 100 tanks running in his store. I asked if I should go with a canister filter.