Fluval FX Series External Filters
Fluval FX series includes the FX4 and FX6 models, which are known for their high performance and advanced features, making them suitable for large aquariums.
Key Features:
- Multi-Stage Filtration: The FX6 offers six stages of filtration, while the FX4 provides five stages. Both models include mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration, ensuring optimal water quality.
-
High Capacity:
- FX6: Suitable for aquariums up to 400 gallons (1500 liters) with a flow rate of 563 gallons per hour and a pump output of 925 gallons per hour (Aquarium Guide) (Modest Fish).
- FX4: Suitable for aquariums up to 250 gallons with a flow rate of 450 gallons per hour and a pump output of 700 gallons per hour (Aquarium Guide) (VIVO Pets).
- Smart Pump Technology: Both models feature an electronic monitoring system that optimizes pump performance and automatically evacuates trapped air every 12 hours to maintain efficiency (Fluval Aquatics) (Epic Aquarium).
- Easy Maintenance: Designed for convenience, the FX series includes AquaStop valves for leak-proof connections and a self-priming feature for hassle-free startup. Maintenance involves simple access to media baskets and minimal disassembly (Aquarium Tips) (Modest Fish).
- Quiet Operation: The FX series is engineered for low noise, using an impeller design that reduces mechanical joints and noise, making it one of the quieter high-capacity filters available (Modest Fish) (Fish Tank Advisor).
Fluval FX2 Canister Filter Overview
The Fluval FX2 is the newest addition to the Fluval FX series of high-performance canister filters. It is designed to offer the same high level of filtration performance as the larger FX4 and FX6 models but in a more compact and space-saving form.
Key Features:
-
Filtration Capacity:
- Aquarium Size: Suitable for aquariums up to 175 gallons (750 liters).
- Flow Rate: Capable of pumping 1800 liters per hour, making it powerful enough for large aquariums (Fluval Aquatics) (Sims Tropical Fish).
-
Multi-Stage Filtration:
- The FX2 uses multiple stages of filtration to ensure water is cleaned effectively. It includes mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration media.
- Comes with 4 Bio-Foam pads, 1 Carbon Foam pad, 1 Bio-Foam+ pad, and 2 bags of BioMax rings, which provide ample surface area for beneficial bacteria to colonize and help maintain healthy water conditions (Aquarist Geek) (Fluval Aquatics).
-
Smart Pump Technology:
- This technology uses an electronic circuit board to monitor the pump's performance continuously. It optimizes pump output and ensures energy efficiency.
- The pump also automatically evacuates trapped air every 12 hours, maintaining optimal performance and preventing any airlocks (AquariumReviews) (Sims Tropical Fish).
-
Ease of Use:
- Self-Starting: The filter primes itself, making setup straightforward. Just add water, plug it in, and the Smart Pump technology takes over.
- Maintenance: Features easily removable and stackable filter media baskets with T-handles for quick and simple maintenance. The AquaStop valves allow for quick and leak-proof connections, and the filter’s compact design ensures it fits under most aquarium cabinets (Fluval Aquatics) (Pond Planet).
-
Quiet Operation:
- Equipped with rubberized feet to reduce vibration and noise, ensuring a quieter operation compared to other high-performance filters (Fluval Aquatics) (Sims Tropical Fish).
-
Customization:
- The filter includes multi-directional output nozzles that can be adjusted to create customized water flows within the aquarium (Fluval Aquatics) (Sims Tropical Fish).
Comparison to Other Models:
- The FX2 is more compact and slightly less powerful than the FX4 and FX6 but offers a great balance of performance and size, making it ideal for mid to large-sized aquariums where space is a consideration.
Fluval 07 Series External Filters
The Fluval 07 series is the latest update in Fluval's line of canister filters, designed for smaller aquariums compared to the FX series but still offering powerful and efficient filtration.
Key Features:
- Advanced Engineering: The 07 series incorporates eTEC (Efficient Technology) for powerful performance, reduced energy consumption, and ultra-quiet operation. These filters are up to 25% quieter than their predecessors (Fluval Aquatics).
-
Flow Rates:
- 407: Suitable for aquariums up to 100 gallons, with a flow rate of 383 gallons per hour (Fluval Aquatics).
- 307, 207, 107: Designed for smaller tanks, each model provides a range of flow rates to suit different aquarium sizes and needs (Fluval Aquatics).
- Energy Efficient: The 07 series uses less power, with models like the 107 and 207 consuming as little as 10 watts, comparable to a single LED light bulb, making them cost-effective to run (Fluval Aquatics).
- User-Friendly Maintenance: Features such as the AquaStop valve and Lift-Lock motor head clamps simplify maintenance. The media baskets are designed for easy access and quick changes (Fluval Aquatics).