What filter do I need for a standard 20 gallon tank?

[Salt in Texas]

I have a 20 gallon tank with a few mushrooms a leather and a single perc. I have a hang on filter and want to upgrade. Not sure what do I need. Any help would be great. Money is an issue. Thanks

 

[NY_Caveman]

I have a 20 gallon tank with a few mushrooms a leather and a single perc. I have a hang on filter and want to upgrade. Not sure what do I need. Any help would be great. Money is an issue. Thanks

Personally, I think the best, simple filtration for any system is a protein skimmer and a bag of activated carbon. Change out the carbon every 3-4 weeks. With a 20 gallon system without a heavy bioload, simple weekly 10-15% water changes may also be sufficient.

Welcome to R2R!

 

[AdamNC]

I ran all HOB equipment for years with good success. On my 29 gallon I still use an AC70 but on a 20 I’d look at the Seachem Tidal 35. About $40.00 but looks promising.

 

[JonoB]

I have a 20 gallon tank with an AC30 or something like that. Just run some filter pad and some carbon. As long as you keep up with water changes I don't think the filter is super necessary.

 

[Hemmdog]

Aquatic life 115 skimmer will do wonders on your tank and it just can hang in the tank.

 

[DesertReefT4r]

I would run a small Octopus HOB skimmer and an Aqua Clear 50 or 70 as a fuge.

 

[Salt in Texas]

I think I am going with the tidal 55. What media if any do I need?