canister filters

18 years ago

I am torn between these a Fluval 404 and a Eheim pro II 2028.

The fluval is like the chevy cavaliers. They work, they're abundant and they're cheap to fix if they break.

The Eheims are like BMW's. Harder to find dealers, parts are more expensive.

Reading online reviews state that the fluval 404's flow much more water/ hour but the eheims do a better job of filtering the water as it passes through the canister.

I actually owned a fluval 304 but never put it to use. I ended up exchanging it for the eheim Pro II 2028 but again I haven't starting using the eheim yet as I am not sure if it was worth the 375cdn (including media) over the fluval 404's 235cdn (including media) price tag.

The fluval seems like an okay design but I would have to say that the eheims are better.

What are you opinions and experiences with two filters?

I am using it for a 72 gallon goldfish tank that I am going to pick up this friday.

Thanks

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Comments (7)

garyfla_gw
18 years ago
Hi
Have no experience with either type as I've always ended up buying Magnum 350's Mainly because of the initial price.
Just replaced one that had run continuously since 1985 !!
It somehow managed to rub a hole in the canister.The magnetic pump is still working but the replacement part cost more than the entire unit. 20 years seems like a fantastic lifespan for a 75 dollar filter.
When you buy equipment be sure to shop around. This unit was priced from 72.50 to 135 dollars depending on the dealer. Seems true of most anything called "aquarium " products.
gary
skygee
18 years ago
I've been using eheims for a number of years. I love them because they are 1) absolutely silent. If the filter is making noise, it probably needs cleaning of some sort. 2) it's absolutely simple to operate AND to clean AND to restart after cleaning. I upgraded to the ProII (2026 for a 40 gallon tank)on one of my tanks. It's great! Easy to operate.

As far as parts are concerned - I can find virtually every part through either Big Al's or Foster and Smith.

The medium in the eheim doesn't have to be replaced continuously, btw. So the cost is really only initial cost.
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aakks
18 years ago
I have an eheim pro 2026 and I love it. The best filter I've ever owned. I owned a fluval many years ago, and it got the job done, but I don't regret spending the extra on the eheim at all.
james_ny
18 years ago
Tho expensive the Eheim is a top quality unit. The only problem is they stop making parts for their old units so you'll buy a new one. I have a 2217 with a bad impeller that I can't find a replacement for. The fuvals are OK, but like Skygee said the Eheims are really quiet.
stevescivic
Original Author
18 years ago
I ended using the eheim 2028 filter after all and so far I've been extremely happy with the quality and the setup of all the pipes, pump and intake/discharge pipes. It's working well and its super quiet.

No complaints that's for sure!
StillH20_GTH2548
18 years ago
I have a 2026 that is a very good filter. I think you would be happy with the 2028.
hosta_miser
18 years ago
I have used all 3 types with good success. Whichever you choose, add the Marineland Biowheel attachment and you will be all set!

joel