Filtration on a not drilled tank

[Amarker3297]

I have a 55 gallon fish tank that I am converting from freshwater. It’s not drilled and I want to know what type of filtration would be best now that sump is out of the equation.

 

[Reefnman2]

I have a 75 that's not drilled, I have a HOB overflow with a sump and run the water through a sock and have a skimmer if that helps.

 

[JasonK84]

Sump is still possible.

Ever heard of a HOB overflow?

 

[lapin]

HOB filter are ok and many use them.

 

[jd371]

I've been using a HOB overflow on my 75g for over 5 years now without any issues.

 

[JasonK84]

If a HOB overflow isn’t an option then I just got a couple of these to run on 40 breeders in my fish room. They go up to a 110. Self priming and don’t require proprietary filter cartridge replacements. Check out some videos of them. I was impressed. I’ve also seen replacement pumps available for them. I plan to have 4 running so I’ll be picking up a couple spare pumps to have on standby.

I put the biomedia in my 120 sump to seed it and then it’s time to instant cycle a couple 40 breeders!

 

[Auquanut]

For a non-drilled tank, there are really 3 main options:
HOB overflow for use with a sump
HOB filters
Canister filters
Each have their pros and cons, but reefers have been successful using each of these, and some reefers are successful with no mechanical filtration at all.
I would suggest you research each one and their suitability to your wants and needs.
Keep in mind that every reefer thinks their approach is best. It's just human nature. If you can narrow your approach a little bit, we can help having you up and running in no time.

 

[Mical]

I believe the OP doesn't plan on using a sump, if that's the case (as mentioned) many folks use hang on the back HOB filters. They're more work & maintenance, but yes they'll work. If it were me and using a HOB filter it would be fish only tank.

On the other hand if OP wanted to use a sump and not drill the tank, a hang on the back overflow would work and would be more convenient maintenance wise. Other benefits - added water volume, can hide skimmer, heaters etc.. It's more of an investment upfront but IMO outweighs the headaches of a HOB filter.

 

[jtl]

If the sides are not tempered and they probably aren't you could drill it and use and internal weir of you making or buy one already made up. Imo that would be better than an external.