The Best Fish Tank Filter Cartridge 2020 – Secret Of Ever-Fresh Water
Buying a fish tank filter is not enough: you need to replace the cartridges regularly as they get clogged with debris. That ensures proper work of filter and optimal cleaning level. How to select the best fish tank filter cartridge to keep aquarium water ever-clean? This ultimate guide discloses the secret of successful shopping and observes top-5 models for 10-gallon tank filters.
Table of Contents:
What Is A Fish Tank Filter Cartridge?
Compare The Best Fish Tank Filter Cartridges
Top-5 10 Gallon Fish Tank Filter Cartridges
1. Tetra Whisper Replacement Carbon Filter Cartridges, Small, 6 Count
2. Tetra Whisper Replacement Carbon Filter Cartridges, Small, 6 Count
3. MarineLand Rite-Size Penguin Power Filter Cartridges
4. Tetra ReptoFilter Filter Cartridges, With Whisper Technology
5. Marina I25 Replacement Power Cartridge
Frequently Asked Questions
Our Recommendations & Conclusion
What Is A Fish Tank Filter Cartridge?
Every aquarium water filter has filtering media inside: this is what ensures chemical, biological, and mechanical cleaning. From time to time, old dirty and clogged filtering media layers that come in cartridges should be replaced with new ones.
There are several types of filter cartridges depending on the type of cleaning performed:
- Mechanical (removes sand, debris, large particles);
- Biological (kills bacteria);
- Chemical (removes toxic chemicals, such as ammonia);
- Mixed (several types of media).
Compare The Best Fish Tank Filter Cartridges
| Image | Product | |
|---|---|---|
Best Choice  | Tetra Whisper Replacement Carbon Filter Cartridges
| Check Price |
Also great  | Aqueon Replacement Filter Cartridges
| Check Price |
Also great  | MarineLand Rite-Size Penguin Power Filter Cartridges
| Check Price |
Also great  | Tetra ReptoFilter Filter Cartridges, With Whisper Technology
| Check Price |
Also great  | Marina I25 Replacement Power Cartridge
| Check Price |
Top-5 10 Gallon Fish Tank Filter Cartridges
To review the best cartridges, we have analyzed several important characteristics, including size, types of filtration, durability, and quality of media used.
Tetra Whisper Replacement Carbon Filter Cartridges, Small, 6 Count
Review
If you have a small aquarium up to 5 gallons, this is the best fish tank filter package you can find. Cheap, ready to use, the filter does what’s said on the label. Thanks to the activated carbon, it removes odors and chemicals from the water, while the fine mesh catches debris. The 6-pack lasts for at least two weeks, if you have a large aquarium, though Tetra recommends changing filters once in a week. The set is designed for Whisper 1-3i filter system.
Our opinion
Purchase of this pack is justified for owners of small fish tanks. It lacks biological filter though, so be ready to buy additional media.
PROS
- Non-expensive;
- Easy to install;
- Removes odors and discoloration.
CONS
- No biological filtration;
- Clogs quickly.
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Aqueon Replacement Filter Cartridges
Review
These cartridges contain activated carbon to remove odors and harmful chemicals, and feature a thin mesh for proper mechanical cleaning. They are ready to use and should be simply replaced by aligning the cartridge bottom key slot. Cartridges last 4-6 weeks each, which is very convenient.
Our opinion
Great choice for fish tanks up to 20 gallons – the 6-pack totally justifies its cost. However, some users claim the cartridges last 3-4 weeks.
PROS
- Holds beneficial bacteria;
- Lasts about a month;
- Easy to replace.
CONS
- Should contain more activated carbon;
- Extra biological filter media should be used with the cartridges.
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MarineLand Rite-Size Penguin Power Filter Cartridges
Review
If you need a filter cartridge for fish tank with all kinds of filtration, opt for the 6-pack from MarineLand. The cartridges contain premium activated carbon, fine mesh, and an extra layer for biological filtration. They’re easy to install and last 1 month.
Our opinion
Excellent cartridges for Penguin filters with a great price/quality ratio.
PROS
- Optimal price and quality ratio;
- 3 types of filtration.
CONS
- Some users claim they last less than a month.
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Tetra ReptoFilter Filter Cartridges, With Whisper Technology
Review
Efficient and long-lasting, Tetra cartridges contain ultra-activated carbon to absorb odors and toxic chemicals – many turtle owners claim that these filter bags remove all smell and debris. Cartridges are very easy to install and last for about a month.
Our opinion
A bit overpriced without a discount, but the pack will be enough to keep the turtle tank clean for 3 full months.
PROS
- Efficient removal of dirt and odors;
- Easy to install.
CONS
- No biological filtration.
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Marina I25 Replacement Power Cartridge
Review
Designed specifically for Marina i25 internal filter, these cartridges have 2 types of filtration thanks to activated carbon and zeolite chamber to remove toxic ammonia. Cartridges last about 4 weeks each and catch debris perfectly.
Our opinion
Non-expensive and efficient option for marina i25 filter – we highly recommend this 2-pack.
PROS
- Cheap;
- Efficient.
CONS
- No biological filtration.
BUY NOW AMAZON
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How To Clean A Fish Tank Filter Cartridge?
A: Cartridges are not cleaned – they are replaced after becoming clogged. However, the filter itself should be cleaned from time to time (for example, when you’re replacing the water in the fish tank).
Q: How To Install Fish Tank Filter Cartridge?
A: Rinse filter cartridge under cool tap water to remove the residues of carbon and other stuff. Open the filter’s lid and insert the cartridge inside after removing the old one.
Q: How Often To Change Filter Cartridge In Fish Tank?
A: Cartridges should be changed at least once in 4 weeks, however, it depends on a variety of factors including aquarium capacity and the quality of water. As a rule, clogged cartridges are replaced when there’s a decreased flow out of the water.
Q: How To Remove A Fish Tank Filter Cartridge?
A: Switch off the filter and open the filter’s lid. Pull a cartridge to remove it.
Q: What Does Filter Cartridge For Fish Tank Do?
A: It removes dirt, debris, chemicals, and odors from water eliminating the discoloration. Some filters also kill harmful bacteria.
Q: How To Replace Fish Tank Filter Cartridge?
A: Switch off the filter and open the filter’s lid. Pull a cartridge to remove it. Wash the filter, if necessary, and place the new cartridge by sliding it in the slot.
Q: Why do fish get stuck on the filter?
A:Commonly, it means that the filter is too powerful for your aquarium: it creates a too strong current that makes small fish stressed. Another possible explanation is an illness or weakness of this particular fish. Keep in mind that fish can get weak and sleepy due to a high ammonia level. If the problem is in the filter, the best solution is to decrease the power of filtration. If the flow can’t be adjusted, then you may try using a sponge sleeve on the intake tube. If this doesn’t help, you should consider replacing a filter.
Q: How long should a fish tank filter last?
A: How long a fish tank filter should last depends on its type. Generally, the vast majority of filter cartridges require changing once a month. The reason is the carbon present in all cartridges. It removes chemical substances from the tank water and eventually fills up with them itself. If you don't change the filter cartridge after a month, it will collect beneficial bacteria, which is good for the aquarium inhabitants, yet will stop removing chemical impurities. This will make the water improper for the fish to thrive. You should replace the filter media of an in-tank or a hang-on-back filter every three to four weeks, too. When doing it, clean the filter. The intake tube might have accumulated debris or algae which must be accurately cleaned, while the filter housing must be just rinsed.
Our Recommendations & Conclusion
How to select a filter cartridge fish tank option? It should mostly depend on the type of filter you use. The majority of cartridges are in nearly the same price range: you can get a 6-pack for $7, or a 3-pack for $3-4. Out of all reviewed models, we highly recommend Aqueon Replacement Filter Cartridges. They feature all types of filtration and boast mostly positive reviews.
Sources:
https://modestfish.com/how-to-clean-your-fish-tank/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aquarium_filter
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Is a bigger aquarium filter better?
hi,
In a nutshell, a bigger filter provides better filtration. That is why the more powerful a filter is the better. However, there is a seamy side to everything: a big filter creates a too strong current, which can be dangerous for small fish. This is why it makes sense to focus on the quality of filtration. Make sure the device provides decent biological filtration. Mechanical filtration is also important, while chemical filtration is not mandatory in many cases.
Fish are fantastic pets, but they’re not the cleanest animals on the planet. Whenever fish do their business, everything is left floating around in the tank for all to see. The best aquarium filters will make sure your water quality stays consistently well while your tank water looks crystal clear. This way, you’ll get to enjoy watching your little critters move around while also helping make sure their habitat is as friendly and livable as possible. There are filters built for every size, shape, and type of tank you cold imagine.
How often to change water filter for 55 gallon Aquarium?
Hi,
The reduction of the water flow says that it’s time to replace the filter. Some charcoal filters can last up to a month, while others need to be changed as often as every two weeks.
For choosing the best aquarium filter that can keep your fish tank clear and free of ammonia and nitrite, firstly you should understand the mechanism behind each type of aquarium filters. The most popular types these days such as power (HOB), canister, internal, corner (box), sponge filters… are all useful if you use them in a proper way that they are intended for.
I think Marineland filters ARE the best! Great company! I had them when I was a little girl, I had 7 goldfish in a tank in my room. I remember seeing the box with Marineland on it. It’s one reason I’ve always used this brand.
Getting the filtration right in your tank and picking the best aquarium filter for your set up is one of the most important elements of successful fish keeping. The water in your tank is literally the air that your fish breathe.
How to maintain a fish tank filter?
Hi,
It’s important to keep an aquarium filter clean all the time. To clean a filter you need to switch it off, detach the tubing, and disassemble the device as directed. Take the filtering media and rinse it gently in pure water. Don’t use tap water, as it contains chlorine, which kills helpful bacteria. Let all the parts get dry naturally, assemble the filter, and switch it on.
Fluval FX6 is an exceptionally high-performance filter and according to our experience this is the best aquarium filter for large tanks. No wonder that it costs quite a bit. It’s pump drives water at mind-blowing flow rate with a power output of 925 US gallons per hour and filter circulation of 538 US gallons per hour. FX6 is also designed to work with up to 400-gallon tanks. We have reviewed it also separately.