The Way to Your Fishies Hearts!
Written: Sep 08 '01 (Updated Sep 08 '01)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Quiet, effective, dependable
Cons: Can get noisy when water level gets low
The Bottom Line: This filter works well and is nicely compatible with just about every aquarium setup.
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| Javelina's Full Review: Tetra Whisper Power Filters |
I have had numerous aquariums and have complete trust in Whisper Filters. The Tetra brand has many aquarium products to choose from, as well as filters. When choosing a Whisper Filter, the main difference between the models has to do with how much water you are filtering in your aquarium.
The great part about the Whisper Filter is that it encompasses three types of filtration, so it is quite effective. Even though this filter is so efficient, you will have to be patient in terms of being able to see changes in water quality, which will not happen immediately.
The first type of filtration is chemical filtration, which would be the Bio-Bag filters that are inserted into the filter, and these have chemical elements (such as carbon) in them. The next is physical filtration, which would simply be the intake strainer and the filter bag of the Bio-Bags, which trap organic matter behind them. The third type is biological filtration, in which "good" bacteria grow and, in layman's terms, "eat" things that would otherwise make the water cloudy.
Whisper filters are amazingly quiet. I had a roommate who complained about undergravel powerheads, and when I put in a Whisper Filter, she didn't even notice I had it running. If the water level gets low, you can add some water so you don't hear the water trickling into the tank (unless you want to hear it). You can also adjust the flow control in order to increase or reduce the output of water.
The filter has replaceable cartridges which easily slide into a compartment. These Bio-Bags have activated carbon in a filter bag. Carbon is used in most aquarium systems, and I consider it a necessity. It works by removing waste products and other organic materials from the water of the aquarium, which would otherwise be naturally done in nature. There are several sizes of the Bio-Bags, which are usually sold in a multi-pack. It is important to remember to read the directions before inserting the filter, which should instruct you to rinse the filter. The water will run dark (almost black) and then begin to clear a little, and this is normal. It is also important to note that if you end up using medications in your aquarium, that using carbon will effect those treatments. The Bio-Bag carton should recommend a length of time for using your filter (on average, approximately 3 to 4 weeks). Remember that these disposable filters are part of both the chemical and biological filtration. You never want to harm the "good" bacteria, but I would recommend taking out the filter every so often and brush or *lightly* rinse off the back of the filter, to remove large debris from it. This will allow water to run more freely through the filter, as over time, pieces of plants and other substantial waste matter will build up.
All the components of the filter are easy to use. Many of the parts of the filter are removable, which really comes in handy when cleaning. However, since this product utilizes biological filtration, the extent of my cleaning usually consists of a quick rinsing and removing larger debris. Never use soap or hot/warm water. Bacteria will grow on almost any surface of the filter, and you will probably notice algae growing especially on the section where water pours out back into the aquarium.
Regardless of the properties of your filtration, concepts of biological filtration should be applied to your aquarium. For example, when changing aquarium water, the entire tank should never be emptied; instead, only partial water changes should be done.
The intake strainer has small slots in it to prevent things like plant matter (and sometimes fish, especially fry!) from getting sucked up into the filter. However, you will find that small pieces of live plants will still get pulled in. You can simply remove the intake strainer and rinse it out.
I also periodically remove the moving parts that run inside the Whisper Filter. These are commonly areas where I would find pieces of plants or other debris. This is important so that the motor is not stressed and that the filter mechanisms will run optimally. Remember to always turn off (unplug) the filter before working with moving parts.
The Tetra Whisper Filter keeps the aquarium looking clean and clear. In addition, it is a great source for keeping the aquarium water oxygenated. The trickle of water that comes down brings oxygen into the water. You can essentially see bubbles of air. I often see my fish playing around and dashing through the water right under the filter. This product can be placed at almost any part along the side of the aquarium, although if you are using a light fixture or hood, the filter will have to be positioned accordingly. Many, if not all of the hoods that are sold have a break-away section on the back to accommodate a filter, and I have always been able to fit one on the tank.
This filter is a great price for the quality, and I have always been able to depend on this product. The Tetra water filters are durable and functional. They are not hard to find, and can usually be found at a Wal-mart or almost any pet store.
Recommended:
Yes
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