When you begin setting up a new freshwater tropical fish tank, there are several key pieces of equipment that you will have to purchase. There is one piece of equipment that plays a huge role in the overall success of your freshwater tropical fish tank. This important piece of equipment is the aquarium filter.

There are many options available from which to choose. I prefer to start off with a high quality Aquarium Power Filter. The aquarium power filter is the most popular form of aquarium filtration used in the hobby today. The aquarium power filter is also known as an HOB (Hang Off the Back) filter. This particular type of filter simply rests on the back of the aquarium tank. They are often referred to as box filters because of their square shape.

I have owned many different types of power filters over the years. There many different types, sizes, brands, and even filters of different quality available. There are high prices and very economical models available. There are models that can be easily customized and use a wide variety of filter media, and there are models that use specific filter only for that model.

Most tropical fish keepers own aquariums between 10-55 gallons. The aquarium power filter is an excellent choice for these aquarium sizes. I run aquarium power filters on all of my tanks in combination with other forms of aquarium filtration. When most fish-keepers begin shopping for aquarium filters, the most affordable and the one that is easily accessible is the power filter. I advise that if you choose to use a power filter that you go ahead and purchase two. It is a great practice to use two aquarium filters in case one malfunctions. This also allows for adequate water flow in your fish tank.

Understand that when shopping for power filters that you have several options available and that you should research the brand your interested in before purchasing. Remember that you can never over filter your tank. The key is to keep your water clean through filtration and water changes.

Author's Bio: 

I have kept tropical fish for 21 years now and operate 20 tanks in my home.

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