I was thinking of buying a large canister filter, maybe rena xp4 for a 29 and 30 gallon tank?
Would this work? Anyone ever done it before?
Would this work? Anyone ever done it before?
1 canister filter for 2 tanks?
- Thread starter drunkenmastera
- Start date
This has been discussed multiple times on the forums and usually people get discouraged after what they hear, sorry!
You run the issue of spreading diseases to both tanks as well as it being very difficult to balance the input/output and not risk the chance of overflowing one.
It has however been done before so it is possible. I'll let some more experienced folks chime in with some precautions to take.
You run the issue of spreading diseases to both tanks as well as it being very difficult to balance the input/output and not risk the chance of overflowing one.
It has however been done before so it is possible. I'll let some more experienced folks chime in with some precautions to take.
You would almost have to bridge the tanks so you eliminate the risk of overflowing one while draining the other if an intake or output should get clogged.
No... plumbing is a headache and you lose massive amounts of flow by plitting the line.
Get 2 filters that offer at least 2x recommended flow. Add a HOB for micron filtration.
Get 2 filters that offer at least 2x recommended flow. Add a HOB for micron filtration.
exactly... a water bridge... essentially making one large tank in 2 places... but you have to be able to make the bridge. of course it would have to be clear. stock would all have to be compatible still.
otherwise, a sump can have 2 ouputs.
Pardon my terrible artistic skills, but this is essentially what is would look like:
Now, the tops of both tanks need to be level with each other. The PVC U could be made with clear PVC or standard white - clear is really expensive, and would probably mean that a second filter would be more attractive.
The major opportunity for failure is the U bridge between the tanks. If air gets up in there or it becomes clogged with plants, fish or other debris, the filter will happily overfill the tank that has the output. A solution to that problem is a float switch on the tank with the output which would kill the filter if the tank started to get too full. Again, that would add expense and I think you are looking for ways to save money.
Now, the tops of both tanks need to be level with each other. The PVC U could be made with clear PVC or standard white - clear is really expensive, and would probably mean that a second filter would be more attractive.
The major opportunity for failure is the U bridge between the tanks. If air gets up in there or it becomes clogged with plants, fish or other debris, the filter will happily overfill the tank that has the output. A solution to that problem is a float switch on the tank with the output which would kill the filter if the tank started to get too full. Again, that would add expense and I think you are looking for ways to save money.
absolutely... doing it right would be a waste of money. i wouldn't use pvc, personally for example... for the reasons stated. i'd use flat panels and make a large square bridge if i were to do it.
http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=229976
this is my post regarding a similar thought. the only way to do it is to make one a sump and put in an overflow!
this is my post regarding a similar thought. the only way to do it is to make one a sump and put in an overflow!