Some people love the quirkiness of turtles. They are pretty cute and have basic maintenance needs. But they still need a friendly habitat to live freely and well enough.
To make that possible, you need the best canister filter for a turtle tank. It is probably not the only product you need, but the right canister filter can make the whole difference between a well-maintained turtle tank, and an ugly one.
Don’t rush out, though. We will help you find the ideal option by presenting you with a wide array of models to consider. And to make it easier, we’ll give you a small but handy guide on how to pick the right ones.
Care to learn everything we have to tell you about turtle tank filters? Then read on further and find out!
Do Turtle Tanks Need a Filter?
Just like any other water animal, turtles need oxygen and clean habitat to live on. So, you will have to make sure that they can swim freely, don’t get sick too easily, and eventually have a clean space to live on.
That’s why a filter sometimes comes as a critical feature to have. It offers the chance to keep the water in the tank clean while helping to get rid of bacteria or parasites that usually grow in stagnant waters.
Of course, not all filters are worth having. Some of them are better than the rest and vice-versa. So, choosing the right one is essential if you want to get the most out of it.
That’s the easiest and most reliable way to keep your turtles in a tank, being healthy, and with tons of space to enjoy.
Otherwise, the tank will get dirty fast, grow bacteria and germs, and possibly even make turtles sick. So, a filter is almost always necessary.
So, does a turtle tank need a filter? Yes, absolutely. Unless you’re cleaning the tank consistently or every few days, then you’ll need something to do it for you. A filter is a perfect way to do that.
Top 5 Best Canister Filter for Turtle Tank Reviews
We don’t want you to spend hours looking all across the internet trying to find the right model. Instead, we want to make the whole process easy and fast for you. For that, we’ve developed a review list with five models to consider. Take a look!
Number 1: Fluval FX6 Canister Filter
The first model is the Fluval FX6 Canister Filter: a pretty well-made and efficient model for those who want decent results.
What makes it so fantastic is the enormous capacity it offers. You can power up tanks of up to 400 gallons with this simple machine.
Another exciting factor is the multi-stage filter. It delivers a good water pumping process for freshwater, marine water, and aquarium water without problems.
But it is the flow rate or pumping capacity that stands out. You will get an exceptional 925 gallons of water per hour (GPH) out of this pump. That’s enough to power up entire aquarium tanks.
And to make it even better, you won’t have to start the pump yourself. With its automatic function system, it will immediately begin to filter when the water passes through. A smart pump function makes sure you get a consistent performance whenever needed.
Overall, this is an excellent choice for large tanks of several turtles at the same time. And it still manages to fit small places. If that works for you, then you won’t regret getting this model.
Number 2: Hydor Professional 600 External Canister Filter
Small but still pretty strong – the Hydor Professional is an external model for those who want a practical yet hugely useful option.
It all starts with its 95-gallon tank capacity. You can pair it up with this kind of tank for medium and small-sized tanks at home.
There’s no shortage of fantastic features on this filter. You get 164 GPH as well, so you can power up an entire tank without problems. It is not the largest out there, but it will still work well enough.
The entire design is practical as well, allowing easy installation. And it boasts 12/16mm for the inlet, and a 12/16mm outlet as well. That fixes all the different accessories, bars, and components to power up the filter without problems.
If you want to take your turtle tank to another level, then you should start by getting the Hydor Professional 600 canister filter.
Number 3: Penn Plax Cascade Elite Canister Filter
Affordability should never come underappreciated. That’s why we love models like the Cascade Elite Canister Filter from Penn Plax.
Also known as the Cascade 1000 Black Elite, or in any of its variations from Cascade Black 500 up to Cascade 1500 – it offers exceptional performance for all kinds of tanks.
The average model offers 100 gallons of overall handling. You can pump up tanks effortlessly and still enjoy its large-capacity media baskets that keep dirt & debris out of the water.
It also comes with all its OEM parts and components, so you can make it work almost as soon as it gets to your house. And what’s even more important, it comes at one of the best prices in the market, and it will still offer 265 GPH for extra performance.
If you don’t want to spend a fortune and still get a more-than-decent performance, then you’ll find this model ideal.
Number 4: Aquatop CF Series Canister Filter
Powering up turtle tanks of up to 175 gallons shouldn’t be a problem. That’s what the Aquatop CF Series wants you to know.
It offers 370 GPH in total, which is enough for both small and medium-sized tanks. Yet, it is not only its performance that makes it so amazing but the superb UV sterilizer that gets rid of bacteria and spores.
This pairs up with a set of 3 fine filter pads, a coarse filter sponge, and even a mechanical filtration system. Everything sets its performance to another level entirely.
It is still a quiet model to get and small enough to be easy to install. You won’t have to make much of an effort to make it work according to your needs.
You will also have a 264 GPH if you need a smaller model, or a 525 GPH if you need a larger one. The CF Series filter from Aquatop is not an option to dismiss.
Number 5: EHEIM Classic External Canister Filter
We love simplicity, but we appreciate superb results even more. That’s what you get with the EHEIM Classic External Canister Filter.
What does it offer that sets it apart from the competition? Well, it all starts with a 95-gallon tank capacity. That’s not the largest out there, but it can still handle most tanks – both small and medium-sized.
Apart from that, you get a unique permo-elastic silicone sealing feature. It allows you to open and close the canister more easily when you are doing maintenance.
Aside from that, you get excellent filter media with sponges. They add up to its high-quality filtering capacity.
Overall, it delivers 164 GPH, which is an excellent performance. And sure enough, it comes with all kinds of components and accessories to make it work without problems.
For those who appreciate low prices and simplicity with superb results, then this filter will come like a gem.
How to Pick a Canister Filter for Turtle Tank?
By now, you’ve probably already made up your mind about which filter to go for. But don’t rush. First, let’s go over the different factors that you need to consider – then you can decide:
Tank Size
This refers to how much water the filter can handle. The more gallons it can handle, the better it will be.
Regular filters can handle tanks from 200 up to 500 gallons. These are regular tanks for houses and decently sized for most.
But if you need to power up big tanks for aquariums and similarly large tanks, then you’ll need something that can handle at least 600 gallons. Some models go up to 1000 gallons or even a little more.
So be careful when choosing, you’ll want something that offers enough for your turtle tank. Otherwise, you will fall short.
Flow Rate
Similarly, to the tank capacity, you will find the flow rate just as important. It works along with the tank compatibility, as it tells you how much water the filter can pump per hour.
This is measured in gallons per hour (GPH). We usually recommend models with at least 150 GPH. That will be enough to power up large tanks of up to 500 gallons.
But you can go for models that offer around 500 GPH or more. Those will be enough to power up tanks of no less than 1000 gallons.
Durability
There’s no point in getting the most potent filter if you aren’t getting a decent construction. That’s why we always advise getting high-quality products that stand the weight of time.
Among them, you will find materials like plastic, rubber, and so on. The whole focus should be on strength above anything else. That would give you an excellent product overall.
Make sure you get high-quality parts, and you’ll have an excellent product to enjoy.
Maintenance
This is an essential part of making sure you won’t waste any time with the filter. The maintenance process should be fast and easy, as well as utterly effective.
After you clean the filter, it should start performing better. So, make sure you get something like that, and you’ll be done.
Internal Vs. Canister Turtle Tank Filter
When you are choosing the next filter for your turtle tank also means getting the right model. That’s why you need to learn the difference between internal and external models. Here’s what you should know:
- Internal Filters
As their name says, these go inside the turtle tank. These are often useful for small tanks of about 20 to 55 gallons. You may find larger options, but they usually don’t go over 100 GPH of overall pumping capacity.
- External Canisters
An external model won’t go inside the tank but outside. This allows the machine to be more powerful and provide higher pumping power.
You can find external canisters that can power up huge aquarium tanks. And that’s why these are the best if you have a turtle tank larger than 100 gallons.
- Which One to Go for?
So, choosing the right model shouldn’t be much of a problem. If you have a small tank, then go for an internal model. But if you have a large tank, then an external model will do.
Whatever you go for, make sure it comes with both chemical and biological filtration systems. Together, they make it possible to enjoy the filter to the max and deliver precisely the kind of filtration your turtles need.
And if you can go for a filter that also offers mechanical filtration, then that would be your best choice. Choose accordingly.
How to Setup a Canister Filter in Turtle Tank?
All filters have their set-up mode. They vary depending on their size, type, and overall capacity. Luckily, they’re not that different either. You can still set up a canister filter on your tank following our general guide:
- Start by assembling the entire filter after getting it out of the box. They usually come in several different parts, including the motor, the tank, the tubes, pipes, and so on.
- Always follow the setup instructions for an easier experience. This will let you know the specifics for the model and type of filter you got.
- Attach mounting accessories. Then find the ideal place to install your filter. It should be the perfect place so the filter can be close to the turtle tank but also stable enough to keep the filter safe.
- Finish by connecting the last tubes, attaching the filter to an outlet, and starting it. The filter should begin pumping water in and out of the turtle tank and clean it.
- Let it work for a few hours and then check the inside of the filter to see if it’s catching any debris or residues from inside the tank. If it is, then you’ve successfully installed a canister filter for a turtle tank.
Frequently Asked Questions
No need to go and buy whatever you find ideal if you aren’t sure. First, come and read the most common questions users and buyers have. They will help you out enormously:
What is the ideal filter for my turtle tank?
It all depends on your needs. As we said before, we recommend well-made filters that last a lifetime. But most importantly is getting one that matches your tank size, offers an ideal flow rate, and still manages to fit alongside the turtle tank effortlessly. Choose according, and you’ll have no problem.
Are fish filters good alternatives for turtle tanks?
Yes, but we recommend getting canister filters instead. They do the same kind of work but usually at a far less effective rate. Turtles are way dirtier than fish, so they need a more powerful filter. If you have a small tank with just one or two turtles, then any fish filter will work. Otherwise, get a larger model.
How often should someone clean a canister filter for a turtle tank?
It depends. Usually, once every month would be enough for small and medium-sized tanks with filters that fit their sides. But if you have a small filter on a large tank, then clean it at least twice a month. Most manufacturers will tell you how often you should do it, so follow their advice.
How much time does a canister filter for turtle tank last?
They can last anywhere from 1 year up to 20 years without problems. But usually, we recommend replacing them with new ones every five years. That will make sure you get a clean and effective filter that keeps the turtle tank in pristine condition.
So What’s Your Decision
As you see, getting the best canister filter for turtle tank won’t be too much of a hassle. As long as you consider our advice and take every one of our recommendations into account, then you should have no problem.
But always remember to go for precisely the type of filter you need. Otherwise, you may end up with a machine that doesn’t meet your needs. Choose one now, and you won’t be disappointed!
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