If you’re a new pet fish owner, you may be a little bit confused as to which filters are the Best Filter For Goldfish Tank and which ones you should avoid.
You may even be wondering if having a filter is even necessary for your tank.
It definitely is.
Making sure that your goldfish tank is sparkling is one of the best ways you can ensure they have a healthy life.
Keeping the water they live in clean is an easy alternative to paying later on with vet visits and expensive medicine to help them feel better.
Does a Goldfish Tank Need a Filter?
Is it important to get a filter for your tank?
Yes, because changing the water once in a while can only do so much, but having a filter that’s constantly turning over the water does so much more. Filters are an affordable and easy way to keep the water moving and prevent any bacteria buildup in the tank.
Aside from keeping the water from becoming stagnant, a fish tank filter also takes out any waste and leftover food from the tank. If these things were allowed to just sit in the water, they would quickly become a buffet table for harmful bacteria.
Not only that, but this kind of waste increases the ammonia levels in the water. These rising levels of harmful ammonia can cause a whole host of problems for your fish, like skin burns, swim bladder problems, and general sickness.
Finding the Best Filter For Goldfish Tank can be difficult, but it’s an effort you must make to help your fish live a happy and healthy life.
There’s no doubt about it:
The type of goldfish filter you choose can make or break your success with fishkeeping.
It’s the main thing that stabilizes your entire aquarium environment, keeping your goldfish safe.
And let’s face it:
A decent filter is better than nothing and will save you some work, but a great filter will drastically reduce the number of water changes you need to do AND can maximize your stocking capacity.
Who doesn’t want that?
That’s why I’ve put together a list of the top 10 Best Filter For Goldfish Tank, in a variety of sizes, shapes and budgets, researching the benefits of each style and testing different brands.
Top 10 Best Filter For Goldfish Tank Available Today? (2020 Reviews & Guide)
To find a good filter, you need to understand what your fish requires to live a healthy life. You want a filter built to meet their needs, whether that’s with wave creation or a fast turnover rate.
Check out these filters to get an idea of what to look for.
1. Aqua Clear Power Filter
First up is the impressive Aqua Clear Power filter. This filter is a small, but efficient product ready to be used almost directly out of the box. It’s ideal for use in fish tanks that hold 5-110 gallons of water.
Despite its small size, this filter has about seven times the capacity and volume of comparable filters. This filter also comes fully loaded with many different layers of filtering agents inside to give your tank thorough filtering every time.
The only problem with this filter is that the level of maintenance required is more than other filters. Because of the different layers of filtering agents, you would need to change out all of those filters once every two to three months. That can become time-consuming if you’re looking for a set-it-and-forget-it type of filter.
Pros
- Lots of different filtering agents to get a good clean
- Has more capacity than other filters its size
Cons
- More maintenance required than normal
2. MarineLand Magnum Polishing Internal Canister Filter
Another good feature of the MarineLand filter is the fact that it already comes with a Black Diamond activated carbon cartridge for filtration. There’s also a dual-chamber media container that you can use customized filtering agents in.
One negative point that’s worth mentioning for the MarineLand Magnum filter is that making the switch from a three-stage filtration system to a water-polishing system can be difficult.
Both of these features are included in the filter, but switching from one type to the other can get confusing. While instructions are included on how to do this, no one wants to have a confusing filter. It is one of the Best Filter For Goldfish Tank.
Pros
- Versatility between three-stage filtration and water polishing
- Dual chamber allows for customization
Cons
- Slightly confusing set up for different systems
3. Marina Power Filter
A good feature that the Marina Power filter has is a customizable water flow option, making it perfect for turning the flow higher or lower depending on your fish’s needs.
This makes a good starter filter because it’s easy to install and has customization options until you know what works best for your fish.
One thing going against the Marina Power filter is that it has a pretty low maximum gallon capacity.
Although it’s alright for the price and size, it’s still a bit on the lower side as far as this list goes. If you have a bigger tank than 20 gallons, you definitely want to pick something else.
Pros
- Cost-efficient
- Easy to understand and use
- Customizable flow
Cons
- Low flow rate
4. MarineLand Penguin Power Filter w/Multi-Stage Filtration
The different sizes are a good feature to have because it means that one model or another is bound to be a good fit for your tank. The MarineLand Penguin Power filter is also built to perform a three-step filtration process for your fish tank.
The only downside for this filter is the fact that it’s not as quiet as other filters. When you first install the filter, it takes some time for it to adjust and get good water flow going, causing it to be a little loud.
Similarly, when it’s close to the end of its life, the filter also makes loud sounds due to extensive use.
Pros
- Excellent flow rate
- Many different sizes
Cons
- Not very quiet
5. Fluval C Power Filter
It’s great for aquariums of up to 70 gallons (C4 Tyle), making it capable of handling large-sized tanks. Another unique feature for the Fluval C power filter is that it comes equipped with a cleaning indicator that lets you know when it’s time to rinse out the polyfoam cartridge.
One problem you might face when using the Fluval C power filter is that it also tends to be a bit louder than most filters. You can definitely get by if you don’t mind extra noise, but the loud sounds definitely make it stand out.
Pros
- Five step filtration
- Great flow rate
- Cleaning indicator
Cons
- Louder than most other filters
6. MarineLand Emperor Filter Systems
Last, but not least, is the MarineLand Emperor filter. Another great option by MarineLand, this filter packs a punch with an amazing flow rate of 400 GPH, and is also one of the largest ones on the list, with twice the filter cartridge capacity as most other filters.
It also has an extra-large BIO wheel filtration system, meaning you can trust that the water in your tank is thoroughly cleaned and treated with each use.
A common problem that users face with this filter is that it’s also a little loud. Usually, this isn’t a problem with these types of filters, so it’s pretty unusual to see this in this one.
If you don’t mind having a little extra background noise though, this is still a great option. It is one of the Best Filter For Goldfish Tank.
Pros
- High-performance flow rate
- Large filter cartridge capacity
Cons
- Noisier than most filters
6. Fluval Power Filter
This filter is Affordable, convenient, inconspicuous – the hang on back filter excels at all three.
The hang on back filter (sometimes abbreviated to HOB filter for short) is the most common filter you’ll find in pet stores and online. A small pump pushes water into a compartment stuffed with filtration media, and then back out into the aquarium.
Sometimes referred to as the all-in-one filter, as it can accommodate mechanical, chemical and biological filtration. They are affordable and easy to conceal behind the aquarium.
The biggest problem has been that because they are so small, most HOB filters available on the market rely on a high water turnover to run efficiently (causing strong current in the water which can be stressful, especially to fancy goldfish breeds).
But good news:
The Fluval C model takes delicate fish species into account by adding a special wet/dry trickle chamber that can hold nitrate reducing filter media (which also provides a greater surface area for beneficial bacteria).
The trickle chamber allows the media to be exposed to oxygen and water at the same time so it can work much better than submerged media. And the design of the filter allows you to turn down the flow without compromising the efficiency.
It is unlike any models available on the market and the only one I recommend for fancy goldfish keepers or any delicate fish.
If it were me, I would PACK every square inch of this filter with FilterPlus or Seachem Matrix, which can assist in nitrate removal and provide more surface area than any other media I know of.
Another tip:
Using the Fluval prefilter sponge on the intake of the filter is a really good idea, as it can reduce the time between filter cleanings and prevent nasty mulm buildup in the media which can make your fish sick.
7. Penn Plax Cascade Canister Filter
They can hold a LOT of filter media and don’t take up room inside the tank, giving your fish ample swimming room. And if you don’t want a filter that’s intrusive, a canister could be a great option for you.
They are great for spaces where you want something quiet, such as in an office.
This one by Penn Plax gives you everything a canister filter should, while remaining affordable. A big plus is the flow rate shutoff valves so cleaning is easier (a big complaint for most canister filters).
With canister filters, you’ll probably want to make sure you use a spray bar to distribute the current.
I pack my canister filters with jumbo ceramic balls. It is one of the Best Filter For Goldfish Tank.
They don’t trap debris.
They support nitrate reduction (seriously, my nitrates are almost undetectable every week when I test).
And the surface area for bacteria to grow is MASSIVE.
To prevent waste from building up at the bottom below the media (requiring more frequent cleaning) I make sure to put a sponge prefilter on the intake.
8. EShopps Wet/Dry Sump Filter System
Now, we’ll examine the wet-dry filter, also known as a “trickle filter” or sump.
They offer very powerful biological filtration, so powerful that it can even increase stocking density capabilities in your tank! They are used by goldfish keepers who want to support a healthy load of goldfish without having to buy lots of smaller filters to do the job.
Returning water is super rich in oxygen, and if you use nitrate reducing filter media, you can really reduce your need to do water changes.
As in, some people only need to do monthly… or even every 3 months water changes.
When that nitrate drops to 0 on its own, your chains fall off! 😉 It is one of the Best Filter For Goldfish Tank.
There are two main kinds of wet/dry filters: above the tank and under the tank. For above the tank setups, water is pumped from the tank into a tray situated above the tank and trickles over the different layers of filtration media. Like canister filters, what is inside is totally up to the aquarium owner. There are DIY versions, though these never seem to look very nice.
But this brand has a clean design and is very customizable.
9. Penn Plax Undergravel Filter
Don’t let anyone tell you Undergravel filters are outdated.
When set up correctly, these things can be AMAZING at filtering your goldfish aquarium.
Why?
You have a surface area for your beneficial bacteria that is literally as huge as the bottom of your tank, something no other filter can match. That means a safer environment for your goldfish.
Traditionally, the UG filter is positioned under a layer of gravel at the tank bottom and pulls debris through the gravel bed. However, goldfish shouldn’t be kept with gravel (it’s a choking hazard), and with this setup you can get a lot of poop trapped at the bottom, which can be hard to clean and bad for your tank’s environment.
But there’s a workaround:
Instead of pea-sized gravel, you can use hydroton, nitrate reducing filter media like Pond Matrix (comes in a 1 gallon size) or small pebbles (bigger than the fish’s mouth, though does not support nitrate reduction).
And instead of pushing waste down into the filter bed where it gets trapped and yucky, you can force it up the opposite way with a pump and use a prefilter on that pump to trap the debris, making cleaning so much easier.
Marineland’s powerhead offers the ability to easily reverse the flow for your Undergravel filter. You can also attach their prefilter to it to prevent waste from entering your filter bed.
Simply connect the pump outlet tube to your riser tube with a reverse flow and enjoy a safer and more effective aquarium filter
10. Hikari Bacto-Surge High Density Sponge Filter
They are great for tanks with fry or small baby fish, as they won’t suck up young ones and provide a gentle current.
It’s a simple and affordable option, though it does require frequent cleaning to work well and does not support nitrate reduction.
I like to use them alongside a more powerful filter for a biological boost and increased aeration in the water.
This one is good for tanks up to 75 gallons in size.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE BEST FILTER FOR GOLDFISH TANK
Do Goldfish Need a Filter?
Short answer…
Yes.
Long answer…
The truth is, goldfish need to have a filter, and you need to have one for your own sake as well.
Goldfish produce toxins (through their waste and respiration) that accumulate in the aquarium and can cause all kinds of major problems.
The purpose of a filter is to supply a multi-pronged approach to get rid of the nasty toxins and keep your goldfish safe using a combination of mechanical, biological and sometimes chemical filtration.
Theoretically, goldfish could live without a filter on one condition:
Huge daily water changes.
Those would effectively remove the toxins and keep the water safe for our finned friends.
But it isn’t practical for most people to be doing this for their aquariums! We have things to do besides carrying buckets all the time and paying a massive water bill.
Filtration stands in the gap between a dirty tank and going crazy with water changes.
It’s the missing link!
What kind of Filtration is Best for Goldfish?
“Think of your goldfish filter as a mini sewage treatment plant.” – Goldfish keeper
There are 3 things to consider when it comes to picking out the best filter specifically for your goldfish.
1. Current
Common filter options like hang on back filters and canister filters hold less media.
That’s why everyone is always hyping having a high volume of water flowing through them, because without it there isn’t enough oxygen to keep the bacteria alive.
But guess what?
While athletic breeds like Common and Comet goldfish don’t mind current, fancy goldfish don’t like a strong current in the water.
Their fins are longer and catch the water current, blowing them around the tank or causing them to struggle to stay in place.
Sometimes they give up the fight and hang in a corner or sit at the bottom. This STRESSES the fish which weakens their immune system.
And what does a low immune system lead to…?
Disease.
Not good!
2. Safety
Many filters are designed in such a way that they require frequent cleaning to stay clear of debris.
If debris is allowed to build up in a filter, in certain conditions it can become incredibly toxic.
Mulm (white gunky gross buildup) and sludge (brown gunky gross buildup) stress the immune system as they become loaded with bad bacteria, leading to sick fish.
3. Effective
Filtration is more than just trapping particles of fish poop or having clear water (though those are nice of course).
Filtration is about completely eliminating ammonia (the #1 killer of aquarium fish in the world) and nitrite, turning it into the much safer nitrATE.
To get rid of ammonia you need beneficial bacteria that consume it and turn it into a far less harmful substance. A good filter has got to have lots of room for beneficial bacteria to grow – or it they can’t do their job.
Let’s face it:
The majority of filters on the market today are way too small to be effective for our “messy goldies.”
They just lead to a false sense of security for the hobbyist.
So choose one of the high performing brands above for best results.
How to Choose a Filter for Your Goldfish Tank?
Now that you have a bit of an understanding of different types of tank filters, you can turn your attention to finding one that fits your specific needs.
There are a few different things you need to keep in mind when shopping for the right filter.
Goldfish Tank Size
The size of your goldfish tank is one of the first things you should note before buying a filter. A goldfish tank is measured by the amount of gallons of water that it can hold at a time.
This amount is important when buying a filter because if the filter doesn’t have an accommodating maximum flow rate, your tank won’t get cleaned properly, and you run the risk of getting your fish sick. Figuring out how many gallons of water your tank holds is the first step in buying the appropriate filter.
Water Flow Rate
The next thing to pay attention to is the water flow rate in your tank.
This is related to the size of your tank, so if you have a fish tank with 30 gallons of water in it, you want to get a filter that can turn over about five times that amount, or 150 gallons, in an hour.
A good water flow rate ensures that your tank is getting cleaned at a pace that’s not too fast or slow.
Types of Aquarium Filters for Goldfish
There are many different types of aquarium filters you can try, like sponge filters, power filters, and canister filters.
A sponge filter is normally used in breeding tanks and is powered by an air pump that forces the water through a sponge-like material. This allows beneficial bacteria to also take root and promote water health.
A power filter utilizes electricity to pull the water through the different types of filtration cartridges. These types of filters are also known as HOB or hang on back filters because they usually hang on the edge of your aquarium.
Lastly, there’s the canister filter. Canister filters use electricity and utilize a ‘water bar’ to spread the outflow of clean water along the bar. This type of filtration is good for saltwater and planted aquariums.
Filtration Technology System
There are three main types of filtration that occur in a healthy aquarium. Mechanical filtration is when the water is forced into a filter that’s designed to catch any waste particles during the transfer.
Chemical filtration refers to when toxic chemicals pass through a filter. This filter has been specifically designed to attract those kinds of molecules and remove them from the water.
Finally, biological filtration occurs when different bacteria are dissolved with the help of good bacteria. A biological filter promotes the growth of good bacteria and stops the appearance of harmful types.
All three of these methods of filtration are necessary for a healthy aquarium, so getting a filter that has equipment for all three is the best option.
Conclusion
After all of this information, you may feel overwhelmed at the thought of buying a filter for your tank. The good news is that you can enlist the help of the experts at your local aquarium store to figure out any details you may be confused about.
Once you find your perfect filter, you can continuously use the same brand and model, and your fish can continue to lead happy lives because of it.
What kind of filtration you choose depends on your lifestyle, the kind of fish you own, and the needs of your aquarium as a whole.
My advice has been and always will be put the fish first, then worry about looks afterward.
What is best for your pets?
In the end, a healthy, well-filtered aquarium will support healthy, happy goldfish and save you extra work.
RELATED ARTICLES:
Best Filter For A Reef Tank
Best Aquarium Filter Bags Reviewed
Best Filter For Goldfish Aquarium Tanks
Best Filter For A Betta Fish Tank
Best Filter For A Turtle Tank