If you’re planning to buy a water filter for your new or existing aquarium but don’t know what to choose, you just landed in the right place.
In this article, we will discuss, compare, and analyze the difference between two types of water filter: the canister and hang on the back filter (abbreviated as HOB)
These two filters are commonly used by the fish keepers, and they come with their pros and cons.
First off, we’ll discuss how they work. Secondly, we’ll separately examine both types and talk about what their differences are.
In the end, you’ll have a solid idea about which of the filters will best suit your specific needs. Here we go!
Canister filter
Mode of operation
Canister filters are usually installed next to the aquarium. Only in fewer cases would you have them installed under the aquarium (that’s if you don’t mind dedicating some little space for it).
This type of filter houses a set of hoses that cleans (filters) the tank water.
This hose pulls out water from the aquarium and runs it into the filter. Once the water goes into the hoses, it passes through different kinds of filter media. It’s good to mention that a canister filter can undergo a biological, chemical, and mechanical filtration on the go if the proper media is used to do it.
When the device successfully filters the water, another hose takes over by returning the water into the tank. The waste (dirt) is stored inside a container in the canister.
Also, it is critical to remember that canister filters use a pump to transport water in the filter media.
Most canister filters incorporated pumps in its design, saving you the cost of purchasing a water pump separately.
Maintenance
It is essential to take some maintenance measures on canister filters. How easy the maintenance is will depend on the model, brand, and kind of canister filter media used.
You will need to remove the parts before cleaning. You must also consider the efficiency of the media before cleaning. Media should be replaced when it becomes less efficient.
And even when you want to replace the media, you also need to follow specific procedures to arrange the filter media.
Although it depends on the media, some canister filters media require frequent rinsing. Once you notice that the efficiency of the filter has reduced, just remove it for proper cleaning.
Some media would require total replacement as merely washing them won’t do the trick.
When you’re cleaning the filter media, always try to clean the tubes, because they are the ones that transport water in and out of the filter.
Filtering capabilities
A canister filter sits by itself alone. In most cases, they have to be put under the aquarium. However, make sure there’s a shelf where the canister can be placed. Also, remember that there are two kinds of hoses that you must set up with a canister filter. So consider this too.
Price
Most times, the canister filter is pricier than the hob filter, even with the same capacity. That’s because a canister filter performs a better cleaning job than the hob filter. You can check amazon for the prices of different brands of canister filters.
What you be aware of
You would need to totally replace some filter media as washing them only won’t do the job. When you’re cleaning the filter media, always try to clean the tubes, the reason being that they are the ones that transport water in and out of the filter.
Hob filter
Hob filters are different from the canister filter. As we move on, we will discuss the main difference between both. But for now, let’s discuss its mode of operation.
Mode of operation
Hob filter does not have any hoses that draw water from the tank. Simply hang the filter on the back of the tank, and it will use a small pump and a lift time to extract water.
When water gets in the filter, it uses multiple filter media to purify the water. As compared to the canister filter, the hob filter also goes through chemical, biological, and mechanical filtration too.
Once you have successfully filtered the water, it is delivered back to the tank. It is simpler to set up this filter, unlike the canister version.
Maintenance
The major concern with power filters is cleaning-you have to disassemble them every few days to remove build-up, and you must replace the filter as soon as it performs less.
Filtering capabilities
In terms of aesthetics, if you’re looking for a filter that won’t fault your tank’s view or you don’t like machinery and several tubing, a pretty simple choice would be a canister filter.
If you will be using your filters for commercial use, for example, if you have a store, you must think professionally. This is where you will need a canister filter.
Price
Canister filters are a bit pricier as they are designed to support larger aquariums. Because of its built quality, canister filters can be operated for a longer period.
The price can differ by a wide margin when you check on stores. If you own a small aquarium, a hob filter is just fine.
What you should be aware of
As with most filters, always replace the carbon in the HOB filter regularly because saturated carbon may release harmful toxins.
Canister vs hob filter
Now that we understand how these two filters work, next is to compare their differences.
A huge difference between these two filters is the design. Most times hob filters are easy to install. Just clip it to the backside of your tank. Furthermore, it will not take much space, but make sure there is enough space at the back of your tank.
We recommend hob filters for smaller to medium-sized aquariums. Many fish keepers who own an aquarium, love the quality of the hob filters. A hang on back filter helps your aquarium have a good look.
And if you pick the right choices, you will not even know when it’s working because it is designed to be sound dampening.
Furthermore, if you will be using your filters for commercial use, for example, if you have a store, you must think professionally. This is where you will need a canister filter.
Consider your budget as well. Canister filters are a no brainer for store owners. But if you’re looking for a cheap filter to use at home, going for a hob device would be a good option.
Overall, it’s your choice to make. Just consider your personal needs and make a decision based on that.
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