fluval internal filter systems

Question
Hi Chris,
Last week when you answered one of my questions, you told me about your Fluval internal filter system.  After some extensive research on the net, I am planning on taking your advice and adding one to my aquarium.  I am stumped as to which one I should buy.  Is bigger always better?

I have a 20 gallon tank, with a Penguin 170 bio-wheel filtration system, which is suppose to filter 170gph, in addition we have an airstone for extra aeration.  We have 6 platys and a few fry.  When I purchase the fluval, should I just go all out and buy the biggest one, which is suppose to be for a 57 gallon tank and filters 260gph?

Once I purchase the fluval, which filter/insert is best to use.  The foam, polyester or the carbon filter/insert?  From what I have read, I'm thinking the foam sounds best, as it is re-useable and it also seems as though it provides the best bio-filter for my tank.  Am I right?

Again, thank you for answering so timely and for offering extra tid-bits of info for me.  I really want this tank to succeed.  The first step to succeeeding with an aquarium is to enjoy taking care of it and strange enough, I really do!  Even after having to do water changes every other day.  It amazes me how much the fish actually like it.  They swim through the water I am pouring into the tank as though it were an amusement park created just for them!  Your help makes me want it to succeed even more, you are encouraging and that helps keep me pumped up.  I am already planning my next aquarium, but this one will be totally different.  I have my eye on a large (72" wide) aquarium that I am planning on using as a room divider in our basement.  I am excited about the endless prospects I have and you are partially responsible for that.  Thank you again, your a fish saint!

Cathi

Answer
Aha! Another aquarium addict like me! Lol! Thanks Cathi....I appreciate your support and I am so glad your fish are doing so well!

You are probably best going with a fluval internal that suits the gallon size. The one I have is the old style Fluval Internal Filter 4. It blasts the water around pretty good in my 55. Especially when it's clean! Yikes! You might find your fish clinging to the sides and holding on for life with that sucker in there! If you get the Fluval Internal Filter 2 Plus it will work well for your tank. You are absolutely right about the foam. I like it better than anything else. It doesn't plug up as easily and provides plenty of surface area for beneficial bacteria. I just squeeeeeeze it out from time to time to get it flowing freely if it plugs up. Rinse it gently in a container of tank water if it needs more than just a squeeze. :-p yuck!

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Chris Robbins

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