New to fish keeping and was having a hard time finding a good filter that's small so it doesn't push the betta around. Thank you so much for making the research a bit easier.
Had 2 of these in my 4 gallon tanks never liked it ver flimsy looks like a toy clogs up easily so I recommend not using the cartridges that come with it. Rather use a sponge filter
@PrimeTimeAquatics- since this review is 4yrs old, I am wondering if this is still a good filter for a 10 gal community tank with plants or are you suggesting something better now?
Life saver! My Platinum Betta was getting hammered in his 5.5 from petsmart. The one from the kit with a sponge inside and a pre filter was tearing him up. I installed this nano filter yesterday and you saved his life. Great recommendation!!!
I wish these hang on backs have some sort of outflow directional mechanism and possibly dispersion type. Right now, I think most are like a 45 degree to the water line; I would prefer 20 degree. Probably add a small cost but there could be many reasons to change the direction and dispersion of the flow for plants, fix dead spots, effect, and etc.
I need this I think lol I have a 5.5 gallon & the filter that’s in it is a hang inside one & it takes up a lot of internal space & the intake gets clogged up w/java fern I use for my shrimp ❤️
I'm going to have to get me one to check it out great video as usual Jason. Looks like aquatop switched manufacturers. It used to be sunsun and aquatop use the same manufacturer.
You didn't show us how you put the actual filter in the tank. I asked this because I bought one and I set it up just like you show in the beginning. When I put it on the back of the tank the Plastics don't meet and neither does it cover. I can't get the suction to go through the plastic. You kind of skipped the part you showed before and after. I need to know how it goes in the tank and what part you put in the filter before you plug it in
The intake is the part that goes into the tank. Make sure the intake is pressed all the way down? Also, you need to fill the back of the filter with water before turning it on.
Idk if u still can read this but my 40-80 one is broken or something it doesn’t pump my water on a 40 size tank what do I do I have a turtle do I fill it up to the top ?
I have a Betta in a 5.5 gallon tank along with a few Nerite snails with the Forza PFE1 filter (up to 8 gallons). I'm a bit concerned with the amount of oxygen getting into the water due to lack of surface agitation (bubbles). Then again, I don't want my Betta getting tossed around by a larger outflow filter. Any thoughts?
I bought this after watching this video and Im on the verge of returning this. I bought it for my 6 gallon tank and it provides 0 surface agitation.. Just Nothing even at its highest flow. The lack of surface agitation just allows any gunk to gather at the top and then the filter's flow isnt good enough to even at least move the top layer around, it just gets stuck.
@@PrimeTimeAquatics I'm so skeptical about this, because of the lack of warranty on amazon, but this helps me feel a bit better on gambling for this one. Especially coming from you. Thanks.
I don´t like cartridges (i hate them) so there for i think aqauaclear 20 or aquael versamax 1 is far better filters... the filter in the video have too small amount of media to really be usefull for more than circulation. thats my opinion!
I’ve purchased a Aqueon quiet flow 10 for my 10 gallon aquarium with two small comet goldfish. I’m going to upgrade the aquarium as they grow,my question is,is this filter going to make too much current and stress the fish,it’s actually for up to 20 gallons.
I think HOB reviews should include a look at the path that the water will take as many HOBs suffer from serious bypass issues especially if you don't use the "official" cartridges.
Green Thumb Aquariums I’ve actually never had that issue on HOBs. I know people say there’s an issue, but when properly maintained I haven’t seen any HOB suffer from those problems.
It's more prevalent on the smaller HOBs. And the issue also depends on what you're expecting your HOB to do. If you're hoping to have mechanical filtration and biological filtration, but the HOB is poorly design, the water will bypass whichever media provides greater resistance to flow. If instead you just shove floss in the HOB then the water will go through the floss since it provides the only path for escape.
Ya, I get that in theory - I guess I've just never experienced that in real life. I use all my HOB's for mechanical and they do great. I'm of the opinion you could have very little media in a filter regardless of flow path and every HOB filter is more than sufficient for biological as well.
I bought this filter for my 5.5g betta tank. It came with a coarse sponge which was inserted in the space right before the waterfall. In your opinion, is that the best place for the sponge? I always thought coarse to fine was the proper order for filter media. Thanks
I'm trying to find a good filter / pump that can push the water from the heater to the rest of my five gallon betta tank without sending my poor dude to the moon, and I've had terrible luck thus far. Does anyone know if this one will help push warmer water? [: Thank you!!
for my 6.5 gallon do you recommend any type of small surface skimmer? i got the forza filter unfort i didn't know it doesn't filter the surface... any type of small discreet type of surface skimmer you recommend ?
Hey bro. Thankyou so much. This helped so much because my neon tetras got sucked up the filter of my 5 gallon. I was new to fish keeping back then, so I bought a 20 gallon filter without knowing. Will never make the same mistake again. Thanks :)
I’ve had this filter running for around 6 weeks and looks like it’s time to change the filter floss and the cartridge. Can anyone help me or suggest which cartridges will be compatible with this nano filter, so that I can order them online ?
Would I also need a small Sponge filter? With the hang on the back. Only keeping one betta and 5 neon terra in aquarium. 5 gallon tank. Maintain once per week.
Hi I have a aqueon 2.5 bowl betta tank I'm interested on that filter. Talking about that I need to get the lid out because don't fit any recommendation??? Ty in advance
I bought a 5 gallon Marina tank kit and it came with the slim filter S10, I intend to put some plants in the tank but not right away just fake plants for now, I also want to add just a few fishes like killifish, maybe a shrimp a snail and a betta. The guy at the store suggested seapora poly pad and carbon pad in my filter, is that ok or should I use another combo of filtration sponge/bio etc..? Maybe just use the poly pad? I don't know, aquarium nOOb here, help me out please hehe. Love your videos btw, thank you for making them.
Good question - if you are going to use live plants at any time I would stay away form the carbon. Sponge and filter floss/pads are probably going to be the best option. Good luck!
I have a Tidal 35 in my 10 gallon beta tank. It seems like even on the lowest flow, he still looks kind of pushed around. He has very long fins so I'm not sure if we can do anything about that. Having the flow turned all the way down seems to be not enough surface agitation. I thought about putting an air stone in the corner but I don't know if that would be too much movement.
Hello thank you for making this video I really got mine it is really awsome filter. By the way I know the carbon is really not that good for plants should I just remove ng plastic thing and put sponge or pads instead?
My beta tank is a 20 gallon long, should I go for the 15-15 forza? I am afraid of the flow rate increasing a ton compared to the smaller size. Thank you for the great video!
I think a better option for a 20 long might be something like the Seachem Tidal 35 - it also has an adjustable flow. I think the forza might be too underpowered for a 20 long (even with a betta).
It can take a minute or so for it to start flowing (it has to suck the water into the tube). Also, make sure the intake tube is properly seated into the back.
Nice product detail -The cut away to the filter in operation brought it to life! Nice to know you have been running this model for a year without incident.
Prime Time Aquatics I dint mean it’s too large. I meant use a sponge, hobs is just complicating it. You guys over the pond will hob everything LOL you guys love em
@@PrimeTimeAquatics So you're claiming ''This May Be The BEST Nano Aquarium Hang On Back Filter!'' And don't mention that you're sponsored anywhere ? In the video or description ? yikes
This seems like a really cool little filter. I've thought about changing to hobs on my nano tanks rather than sponge filters but have been hesitant because it is difficult to find a filter with just the right flow for small tanks. Thank you for the review!
Any idea how difficult it is to get the replacement cartridges for it? I still use them on occasion just because I don't mind running a little bit of carbon in my tanks.
New to fish keeping and was having a hard time finding a good filter that's small so it doesn't push the betta around. Thank you so much for making the research a bit easier.
Had 2 of these in my 4 gallon tanks never liked it ver flimsy looks like a toy clogs up easily so I recommend not using the cartridges that come with it. Rather use a sponge filter
I agree. This is a great filter that can easily be modified and I love that it runs on 2 watts 🙂
@PrimeTimeAquatics- since this review is 4yrs old, I am wondering if this is still a good filter for a 10 gal community tank with plants or are you suggesting something better now?
I also like the Seachem Tidal 35 with the flow turned down.
Life saver! My Platinum Betta was getting hammered in his 5.5 from petsmart. The one from the kit with a sponge inside and a pre filter was tearing him up. I installed this nano filter yesterday and you saved his life. Great recommendation!!!
Awesome!
I wish these hang on backs have some sort of outflow directional mechanism and possibly dispersion type. Right now, I think most are like a 45 degree to the water line; I would prefer 20 degree. Probably add a small cost but there could be many reasons to change the direction and dispersion of the flow for plants, fix dead spots, effect, and etc.
I need this I think lol I have a 5.5 gallon & the filter that’s in it is a hang inside one & it takes up a lot of internal space & the intake gets clogged up w/java fern I use for my shrimp ❤️
Will this filter be good for a 10 gallon?
I'm going to have to get me one to check it out great video as usual Jason. Looks like aquatop switched manufacturers. It used to be sunsun and aquatop use the same manufacturer.
You didn't show us how you put the actual filter in the tank. I asked this because I bought one and I set it up just like you show in the beginning. When I put it on the back of the tank the Plastics don't meet and neither does it cover. I can't get the suction to go through the plastic. You kind of skipped the part you showed before and after. I need to know how it goes in the tank and what part you put in the filter before you plug it in
The intake is the part that goes into the tank. Make sure the intake is pressed all the way down? Also, you need to fill the back of the filter with water before turning it on.
Idk if u still can read this but my 40-80 one is broken or something it doesn’t pump my water on a 40 size tank what do I do I have a turtle do I fill it up to the top ?
The more you can fill the tank the better the flow usually will be.
@@PrimeTimeAquatics thank you !!
Got mine brand new and wouldnt work 👌🏻👌🏻
Aquaclear 👍💪
I have a Betta in a 5.5 gallon tank along with a few Nerite snails with the Forza PFE1 filter (up to 8 gallons).
I'm a bit concerned with the amount of oxygen getting into the water due to lack of surface agitation (bubbles).
Then again, I don't want my Betta getting tossed around by a larger outflow filter.
Any thoughts?
Bettas are a labrnyth fish so they don't need a lot of surface aggitation.
I’m making a small nano planted tank so what do you recommend instead of the carbon?
I actually just use sponge and filter floss in my HOB filters.
I bought this after watching this video and Im on the verge of returning this. I bought it for my 6 gallon tank and it provides 0 surface agitation.. Just Nothing even at its highest flow. The lack of surface agitation just allows any gunk to gather at the top and then the filter's flow isnt good enough to even at least move the top layer around, it just gets stuck.
Weird - I use it on a lot of our 10 gallon tanks and really like it.
@@PrimeTimeAquatics I'm so skeptical about this, because of the lack of warranty on amazon, but this helps me feel a bit better on gambling for this one. Especially coming from you. Thanks.
I don´t like cartridges (i hate them) so there for i think aqauaclear 20 or aquael versamax 1 is far better filters... the filter in the video have too small amount of media to really be usefull for more than circulation. thats my opinion!
aheim svensson I don’t think any filter needs a cartridge. You can use sponge or floss with any HOB.
These do stir up the bottom quite a bit because of how the water flows out of them. It can overpower a small tank tbh
I’ve purchased a Aqueon quiet flow 10 for my 10 gallon aquarium with two small comet goldfish. I’m going to upgrade the aquarium as they grow,my question is,is this filter going to make too much current and stress the fish,it’s actually for up to 20 gallons.
For Goldfish probably not. If you see them fighting the current you may want to think about switching.
I think HOB reviews should include a look at the path that the water will take as many HOBs suffer from serious bypass issues especially if you don't use the "official" cartridges.
Green Thumb Aquariums I’ve actually never had that issue on HOBs. I know people say there’s an issue, but when properly maintained I haven’t seen any HOB suffer from those problems.
It's more prevalent on the smaller HOBs. And the issue also depends on what you're expecting your HOB to do. If you're hoping to have mechanical filtration and biological filtration, but the HOB is poorly design, the water will bypass whichever media provides greater resistance to flow. If instead you just shove floss in the HOB then the water will go through the floss since it provides the only path for escape.
Ya, I get that in theory - I guess I've just never experienced that in real life. I use all my HOB's for mechanical and they do great. I'm of the opinion you could have very little media in a filter regardless of flow path and every HOB filter is more than sufficient for biological as well.
I've been looking for something for a 3 gallon tank. This looks perfect.
This should work well
Either this one, or Aquarium Masters-also makes a Nice NANO HOB Low-flow.
What is the filters that is best for 20 gallon tank? Is it ok to use one for 75 g in 20gallons?
75 gallon filter would probably be too strong. The Marineland Pro 125 might be a good filter.
Is this filter self priming ? Also would the course sponge mat from Aquarium co op be able to be cut to fit inside?
It's not self-priming, but starts easily. You could cut sponge to fit!
The power plug is fussy & won’t seal or stay. Any suggestions?
I’m not sure - I’ve never had that issue.
I bought this filter for my 5.5g betta tank.
It came with a coarse sponge which was inserted in the space right before the waterfall.
In your opinion, is that the best place for the sponge?
I always thought coarse to fine was the proper order for filter media.
Thanks
You are correct!
@@PrimeTimeAquatics So may I ask how you have your forza 5-15's set up with media?
Thanks
My filter on my nano just broke this would be great on it.
Henshaw should work well!
I’ve had this filter running for 3 months now. It’s great, and of course I use my own filter floss and bio balls
What are Bio ball
@@ByleBorder I’m guessing porous ceramic balls that are great for aquarium bacteria (they are able to grow more bacteria than regular filter media ❤️
Can you tell me the length of the Forza 5-15? I'm trying to fit for a limited lid opening and can't find dimensions anywhere for this filter. Thanks!
I have been looking for a filter for a 10 gallon tank that has adjustable flow for a while now. Thanks so much!
This should fit your needs!
Don’t like hob filters. Difficult with a top on the tank with one isn’t it
All my tanks have a space in the back for the HOB to slide in so I've never had an issue.
Looks like the water is bypassing the filter media. I got rid of my azoo for that specific reason. Now I’m using sponge filters on nano tanks.
Do i also need an air pump and aerator?
No, if you have a hang on back that is all you need.
Do you have a Forza 15 - 25 as well?
I don't have that size. :-(
Thanks, useful as always 👍👍👌👌
It works like a charm!! Thank you!
Awesome filter for the size and price!!
Have you seen the xp-03 which filters even the floating debris and oil on the aquarium?
I haven't seen that one yet
Great advice ☺️💜💖💜💖💜💖
Is t he motor internal?
Not on this one, unfortunately
I'm trying to find a good filter / pump that can push the water from the heater to the rest of my five gallon betta tank without sending my poor dude to the moon, and I've had terrible luck thus far. Does anyone know if this one will help push warmer water? [: Thank you!!
I wouldn’t worry about temp distribution in a 5 gallon. It’s small enough where you won’t see much of a difference.
for my 6.5 gallon do you recommend any type of small surface skimmer? i got the forza filter unfort i didn't know it doesn't filter the surface... any type of small discreet type of surface skimmer you recommend ?
There isn’t much out there for a tank that size?
Do yourself a favor and get and Aquaclear 20 5-20 gallon flter
Hey bro. Thankyou so much. This helped so much because my neon tetras got sucked up the filter of my 5 gallon. I was new to fish keeping back then, so I bought a 20 gallon filter without knowing. Will never make the same mistake again. Thanks :)
Glad it worked out
I’ve had this filter running for around 6 weeks and looks like it’s time to change the filter floss and the cartridge.
Can anyone help me or suggest which cartridges will be compatible with this nano filter, so that I can order them online ?
I would just order filter floss off Amazon and cut it to size! th-cam.com/video/Q0HPVg7ywFA/w-d-xo.html
thanks so much im new and I really like this filter
Any suggestions for a filter for a large round mouth candy bowl styled beta tank
I wonder if a small sponge filter might be the easiest way to go? th-cam.com/video/AAB8W4_r1jY/w-d-xo.html
So question for a planted tank right away u wanna remove that carbon pad? And just put those foam filters in the carbon pads place?
I generally do, but I have also seen a fair amount of research lately that says it isn't necessary.
Would I also need a small Sponge filter? With the hang on the back. Only keeping one betta and 5 neon terra in aquarium. 5 gallon tank. Maintain once per week.
This should be enough for a 5 gallon.
Thanks for this info! I tried to order from your link, but they’re sold out. Luckily I found it elsewhere. Love your videos!
Łapka w górę pozdrawiam cię kolego
Hi I have a aqueon 2.5 bowl betta tank I'm interested on that filter. Talking about that I need to get the lid out because don't fit any recommendation??? Ty in advance
Omar Arocho ya, that’s the down side to having a tank with a lid that seals completely.
Will this be strong enough for the bookshelf 6.5 gallon reef tank ?
I might want two
Would the forza be good for a 10 gallon betta tank I have a fluval 30 hob and feel current is to strong even if turned down
Yep - we have used them on 10 gallon tanks and they work well.
Cool little filter. It does not appear to be self priming? Nice review. Thanks.
Ya, not self-priming but they usually start right up.
Is there a buzzing noise you get on this filter? For some reason I tried two of them and they seem loud.
Ours seem ok?
He sounds like a 2nd grade teacher
I have a same filter but in white
I bought a 5 gallon Marina tank kit and it came with the slim filter S10, I intend to put some plants in the tank but not right away just fake plants for now, I also want to add just a few fishes like killifish, maybe a shrimp a snail and a betta.
The guy at the store suggested seapora poly pad and carbon pad in my filter, is that ok or should I use another combo of filtration sponge/bio etc..?
Maybe just use the poly pad? I don't know, aquarium nOOb here, help me out please hehe. Love your videos btw, thank you for making them.
Good question - if you are going to use live plants at any time I would stay away form the carbon. Sponge and filter floss/pads are probably going to be the best option. Good luck!
@@PrimeTimeAquatics Thank you so much for the reply, going back to the store to exchange the carbon for the floss right now 😎
Can I add ceramic rings to this filter?
Yes, but there isn't much space given it is such a small filter.
What would you recommend for a Betta in a 10 gallon flow wise? Should I set it as low as possible? Or 1/4 or 1/2 flow?
You can probably go close to full flow in a ten gallon.
I have a Tidal 35 in my 10 gallon beta tank. It seems like even on the lowest flow, he still looks kind of pushed around. He has very long fins so I'm not sure if we can do anything about that. Having the flow turned all the way down seems to be not enough surface agitation. I thought about putting an air stone in the corner but I don't know if that would be too much movement.
No
Is this the same guy on kgtropicals
No - John is on KG Tropicals. :-)
My brother is getting a tank for his birthday. It's a 5 gallon. Would this be acceptable in it?
This will be a great filter for that tank!
@@PrimeTimeAquatics Thank you for your reply. I'll buy one.
Hello thank you for making this video I really got mine it is really awsome filter. By the way I know the carbon is really not that good for plants should I just remove ng plastic thing and put sponge or pads instead?
That's what I do. :-)
Thanks good info
I know this is random but does anyone else’s AquaClear 20 noisy mine sounds like a pepper grinder and it’s brand new :(
Mine were always noisier then I would have liked.
Prime Time Aquatics weird hey! I might grab myself an Aquatop I don’t think they sell them in Australia tho
Will these work good on 15gallons?
Yes, but it’s probably my approaching the max volume. The Seachem Tidal might be a better option.
My beta tank is a 20 gallon long, should I go for the 15-15 forza? I am afraid of the flow rate increasing a ton compared to the smaller size. Thank you for the great video!
I think a better option for a 20 long might be something like the Seachem Tidal 35 - it also has an adjustable flow. I think the forza might be too underpowered for a 20 long (even with a betta).
@@PrimeTimeAquatics thank you so much!!
what pre filter sponge will work with this?
The small ones. I think Flip Aquatics has them on their website.
I just got one and I can’t seem to get it flowing even after pouring water into the filter chamber :0 help ?
It can take a minute or so for it to start flowing (it has to suck the water into the tube). Also, make sure the intake tube is properly seated into the back.
@@PrimeTimeAquatics thank you !
Can comet goldfish do ok with just a sponge filter, or should they also have a hanging filter?
Bobby Walden I had just sponge filters with no issues.
Thank you for answering my question Jason,your a big help in my new hobby.
where do you get filters for this?
Amazon
hello, love your videos! can i use a pre filter sponge and a sponge at the same time? and also can the carbon be removed easily?
Sure you can use both. I actually just use the sponge that comes with the filter and some filter floss - I tend not to use the carbon inserts.
Mine isn’t pumping water
Make sure the back is filled with water?
Alright alright
Is this filter quiet
It's been quiet for us.
👍
Another great one Jason!!
How often do you clean a sponge filter that you recently bought??
I don't clean them for the first 3-4 weeks. After that I clean them once a week.
Prime Time Aquatics okay thanks for the quick response!
Nice product detail -The cut away to the filter in operation brought it to life! Nice to know you have been running this model for a year without incident.
Thank you!
HOB a on a nano is too much... use a sponge
Not when the HOB is small. : -)
Prime Time Aquatics I dint mean it’s too large. I meant use a sponge, hobs is just complicating it. You guys over the pond will hob everything LOL you guys love em
I appreciate it! I am always looking for new filter ideas!
Nice review 🤓
Thank you!
Sponsored?
By Flip Aquatics.
@@PrimeTimeAquatics So you're claiming ''This May Be The BEST Nano Aquarium Hang On Back Filter!'' And don't mention that you're sponsored anywhere ? In the video or description ? yikes
I absolutely did - 1) I mentioned that Flip Aquatics sent me the filter and 2) I have a text disclaimer in the video.
Is this filter quite? I want to get it to replace my current old filter. And does it do a good job because I have live plants
and the algae is insane
It is the quietest HOB with an external motor that I have used.
This seems like a really cool little filter. I've thought about changing to hobs on my nano tanks rather than sponge filters but have been hesitant because it is difficult to find a filter with just the right flow for small tanks. Thank you for the review!
Any idea how difficult it is to get the replacement cartridges for it? I still use them on occasion just because I don't mind running a little bit of carbon in my tanks.
Great question - I always just cut my own sponges and floss to fit the filters I am using so I'm not sure.
@@PrimeTimeAquatics thank you for the reply anyway. I also cut my own floss normally but run a replacement cartridge now and then just for the carbon.
How can I filter my 3 litre bowl?
Using an Aquatop Micro sponge filter!