Old filter

Question
Hi. I got one of wal-marts older tanks that is ten gallons,(i would estimate it to be from about the nineties, so it's older. It has that neat cover that hids the filter and the heater also. My question is about the filter. It's an old fluval 2 filter, which looks just like a rectangle. Is it really a good filter? If not, could you name a good one that is about the same size? I only have an albino auloncara, a apple snail, and a chinese algae eater.

Second (sorry for asking so much), I was wondering is my invention would work. I figure if I hook up an aquarium siphon close to the grave, and have the tube go to the other side of the tank and the water trickle down polywool and carbon. Would this be a good back-up filter? I have made a prototype, and it works. Thanks for your reply in advance.

Answer
Hello,

First off, yes- fluvals are very good filters. I currently have one running on my BIG tank and it has done very well over the years with no problems.

Second, I would not rely on a makeshift filter. Although it is a very clever idea, the safest and most reliable filters are the sort you buy from the pet stores. If you are still interested in pursuing your filter idea, I can't see any obvious dangers in it. I do always strongly recommend that you only use stuff for your aquarium that you bought for aquariums. A back-up filter for a 10 gallon may only cost $30-40.

I hope this helps.

Regards,
Stephanie