Power filters as far as the hobbyist is concerned are filters that hang on the back of the tank. These filters are driven by impellers usually magnetic. Power filters are primarily mechanical. However with today's technology most power filters are a combination of filter properties. Most have replaceable cartridges which are replaced as they are filled with waste from your tank. These filters vary greatly in their water flow. So care must be taken to get the right size filter for your tank. I prefer using a power filter in conjunction with other filters mainly a bio filter of some kind. However today there are power filters that provide for bio filtration as well as chemical and mechanical.
Since part of these filters sit above the water, they must be primed to get them started. Care should be taken not to let your tank's water get too low to cause the power filter to break siphon and run dry. This will cause the impeller to heat up and eventually fail.
|
