Best* Aquarium Filters of 2023

On this list of best-sellers, you’ll find some of the best aquarium canister filters and power filters for all kinds of aquatic habitats. These filters are the ones most frequently purchased by Petco’s customers shopping for all-things aquariums. Included are some of the best aquarium filters for tanks sized from 1 to 250 gallons. Plus, there are best-selling options that will work with either freshwater or saltwater systems.

An aquarium filter is one of the most critical components of both freshwater and saltwater underwater environments. And they are necessary to sustain aquatic life in aquariums. These filters are designed to simplify maintenance by filtering for and removing physical and soluble waste from your marine environment’s water.

There are many different types of aquarium filters from which to choose. The kind of filter you choose will be determined by multiple factors, including the size of your habitat, the type of life you’re keeping in it, your aquarium’s unique needs and your budget.

Choose from a wide variety of aquarium filters. There are several types of aquarium power filters, including wet/dry filters and popular aquarium canister filters. There are also multiple internal aquarium filters, including sponge filters, corner filters and undergravel filters.

Bigger filters are not always better for your aquarium. Although the actual size of the filter is not the primary concern, if your filter is too big, it may not fit or work on your aquarium. The main issue with using a larger filter than recommended for your habitat is its strength. A bigger filter may be too strong, generating more water flow and causing problems along with increased filtration.

The aquatic life you’re keeping in your aquarium will be sensitive to ideal underwater conditions, and there are types of fish and plant life that won’t do well with strong water currents. If your fish are small, the large filter and the current it generates may even suck them into the water inlet. The best aquarium filter for your habitat will be one tailored to match the size. Ideally, the number of gallons in your aquatic environment should be filtered at least four times per hour. For example, if your tank is 25 gallons, it will require a filter with at least a 100 US Gal/h capability.

As the parent of an underwater community, keeping your aquarium’s water clean is one of the most important responsibilities. And getting high-quality equipment that’s appropriate for your pets and their home is crucial.

Along with choosing your aquarium, live fish, plants, substrate, heater and fish food, one of the most vital pieces in your aquarium setup will be finding the best aquarium filter for your environment.

To choose the best aquarium filter for your aquatic habitat, consider your aquarium’s size. As a general rule, all the water should pass through your filtration system at least four times an hour. For example, if your aquarium is 40 gallons, it will require a filter with at least a 160 US Gal/h capability. And if choosing between filters of 150 and 200 Gal/h, choose the 200 Gal/h option. Also, make sure the filter you pick is suitable for your environment—freshwater or marine.

This depends on the type of aquarium filter you have. For a canister filter, place the output about 1.5- to 2-inches below the water’s surface and point it towards the surface. Internal aquarium filters need to be fully submerged, usually near the substrate. And hang-on-back aquarium filters must stick out above the water’s surface.