What's a good HOB filter and protein skimmer that won't break the bank?

PJs_Bucket_List_Reef_75 · Jul 12, 2024

I have a 45 gallon, undrilled tank. The tank is tall and narrow, and I have very little accessible space in the stand cabinet for a sump, so HOB it is. This is a new setup for a new hobbyist, and I can't break the bank starting out. What do y'all recommend?

Cichlid Dad · Jul 13, 2024

PJs_Bucket_List_Reef_75 said:
With my specific circumstances, I'm hoping to keep my setup as simple as possible without sacrificing quality of life in my ecosystem. Do you have any stocking suggestions?

I would search in r2r for threads showing who are running their tanks this way, also you tube has videos. I believe you can have any Reef safe fish you want as long as they are ok in a 45 gallon. Coral would be lps, softies and sps that need nutrient rich water. You will have to test your water often until the tank stabilizes and you learn when you need to test and do water changes. Each system is different.

jft · Jul 13, 2024

dkline said:
I’ve used aquaclear and now have seachem. Both are good. I think I may like seachem better because the pump does self prime, big media box that is easy to remove and the filter has a skimmer function so it not only pulls water from the standard tube but pulls surface water as well. So you are filtering from surface and closer to the bottom from the same filter.

Yeah BUT they Grind like Crazy if water level drops and You cannot use them in aquaterrariums, Aquaclear More media space and bang for the buck. Trac record of over 30 years, Good luck!

dkline · Jul 13, 2024

jft said:
Yeah BUT they Grind like Crazy if water level drops and You cannot use them in aquaterrariums, Aquaclear More media space and bang for the buck. Trac record of over 30 years, Good luck!

That is true. The water level needs to be kept above the pump. Would not be good for an aquaterrarrariums but I I did not think that was the intent. For a fish aquarium or small reef tank you would not let the water level drop that much and so in that application it is a great filter. As is aqua clear.