Rena Xp3 or Eheim 2217 Classic?

Rena Xp3 or Eheim 2217 Classic?

Looking for comparison in:

Easy Cleaning
Minimum Noise
Most Reliable (not leaking)
Best overall filtering job

I can't really decide which to purchase.


Also, it's a 55 gallon tank. Based on where the tank is and the space available I cannot set up a sump. Right now I run an Emporer 400 biowheel. My plan is to free up some space on the back of the tank for a protein skimmer as right now I have hanging back there a Fuge/Skimmer HOB combo.

 

eheim is a great company and i would recomend almost any of their products. i had a similar eheim canister on a 29G cichlid planted. i wouldnt usually recomend any canister tho as i am a recent sump convert and truly believe i have seen the light. i have never owned anything by rena sooooooo...grain of salt.

 

I thought about buying a rena canister filter. But instead invested in a nice protein skimmer and bought a HOB filter with sponge pads to polish the water and I think that works great and is little maintenance. I've never used a canister filter but from what i've heard is that they're are a waste of money and a huge pain when it comes to maintenance.

 

i have a rena xp3, it is a nice filter, lots of media space and very easy to clean. i have read a lot of reviews talking about how loud it is. well mine have zero noise. it is placed inside the DT stand and really i cant hear anything. the only thing is you have to keep up with the maintenance so that the flow wont drop. i clean it every other week but i have a light bioload. i have 5 fishes in a 75 gallon 3 of them are less than 1".
i did not use the return spray bar that comes with it, i donno if it is a wise decision but so far no problems.
BTW i bought mine used for $45. for the money it was well worth it. i donno about eheim, i had the same question b4 buying but the price made a big difference in my decision beside i saw the xp3 in action.
good luck and i hope this was helpful for you.

 

my honest opinion Clarky
is that both of those models would be good quality

I have used Ehiems, and Fluvals, but never a Rena cannister I have used Rena airpumps and heater Thermostats and they where excellent IMO

So in my opinion - either would be good

Steve

 

Thanks for the opinions. I just have to free up some space on the back of my tank. It's either take down the Emporer400 or remove the CPR Fuge/Skimmer hang on, which would mean removing my macro algea too.

 

+ 1 with above post

 

Never used a canister filter but reviews I hear are downbeat... no idea though

 

thepanfish
what would he want with another Emperor400 LOL

Steve

 

awoops! reading this on my phone I completely missed that, sorry. Why not try a good quality HOB skimmer