Do I need to replace my canister filter?

[stuccoman]

I need advice if I need to replace my canister filter. The impeller for the pump broke. I can replace it at a minimal cost, only issue is it will not be shipped for 3-4 weeks. I can replace unit but $ goes up significantly.
I have a 55gl. running for over 2.5yrs with 50-60lb. of live rock, a wave maker, and protein skimmer with very stable parameters for a long time.
I like the canister filter for the mechanical filtration, ability to add carbon, and added water movement. Understand the drawback of nitrate production from canister and need to clean regularly.
I only have two fish, a derasa clam, and cleanup crew.
I would like to switch to a sump but not an option at this time, not enough room through door on stand to place underneath and I not excited about tearing down, if I was to do that, I would do an entire new build.
So do I really need to replace the canister?

 

[Lost in the Sauce]

What's the alternative to replacing it?

What will your filtration be running on?


Addressing not enough room to place the sump tank..

Is this because there is a center divider? My QT stand has a 20h under it that will not fit through the opening normally. If you turn it up on end and work it in, you may actually be able to get the tank under yours for a sump.

 

[stuccoman]

What's the alternative to replacing it?

What will your filtration be running on?


Addressing not enough room to place the sump tank..

Is this because there is a center divider? My QT stand has a 20h under it that will not fit through the opening normally. If you turn it up on end and work it in, you may actually be able to get the tank under yours for a sump.

I could go with a HOB, or just not replace it. There are so many opinions concerning filtration, according to some I've read the live rock and protein skimmer are enough.

Yes there is a center divider. Thanks for the advice.

 

[Lost in the Sauce]

With good flow through and around liverock with open pores, your low bioload... Honestly I'd guess you could probably get away without one

 

[Sleeping Giant]

Shut down the canister filter while you wait for the impeller to arrive,. Do extra water changes you'll be ok. Your skimmer will help out a bit during this time. I had the same issue with my impeller and motor, I had to wait 3 weeks but I was trying to get the company to honor the warranty which they didn't in the end, so I had to order and wait.
There's nothing wrong with using a canister, especially if it's working fine for you.

 

[stuccoman]

Shut down the canister filter while you wait for the impeller to arrive,. Do extra water changes you'll be ok. Your skimmer will help out a bit during this time. I had the same issue with my impeller and motor, I had to wait 3 weeks but I was trying to get the company to honor the warranty which they didn't in the end, so I had to order and wait.
There's nothing wrong with using a canister, especially if it's working fine for you.

Thank You
Researching canisters and now interested in a unit that has heater and skimmer, any suggestions?

 

[Sleeping Giant]

Thank You
Researching canisters and now interested in a unit that has heater and skimmer, any suggestions?

My canister is a Fluval FX4, I have my heater in my display and an aquamaxx 1.5 hob skimmer. I prefer to keep them seperate. I'm not a fan of the AIO canisters, because if one thing goes bad there's no option to run singular while waiting for the parts to arrive or possibly changing out something that might work better down the road.