Which filter to buy? Fluval 404, Eheim 2217 or Professional2

[TeeFM]

I am buying a 4x18x24 tank to keep ~10 discus. Can anyone please tell me which filter would be the best? The Fluval 404, Ehiem classic 2217, or Eheim Professional II 2028. Thanks for anyone's honest opinion.

[Bronx19]

2217 - $367 for 1000l/h
404 - $219 for 1300l/h
2028 - $576 for 1050l/h

Fluval 404 is the best value for money out of those.

[Proteus]

Remember those LPH figures are for the filter with no media in them.

It must be also pointed out that with the eheim pro, you get the pro series media, which alone is worth over $200.

Of all the models mentioned the 2028 is the best in regards to performance by a mile, however, if you are going by price v's quality, then the Fluval gives you good bang for the buck.

Also, the Aqua One 1200 is a great model, and can be purchased for the same if not less than the fluval.

[TeeFM]

Thanks for above.

If I can get 2217 for the same price as 404, which one would be best value for money?

[Proteus]

2217 for sure if the same price

[oldschoolculture]

If u get the same price for an ehiem, then i would definately go the eheim. Quality piece of equipment that. Also, if u can find a rena (french)that is also a quality canister at about the same price as a 404.

[TeeFM]

Thanks
How about the buskets in the 404 (not in 2217)? Are they important in term of water filtration and maintenance? Would you take this in to consideration when you choose between the two of them?

[oldschoolculture]

The baskets are important in any cansiter, not only for the amount of media u can put in there, but also ease in maintenance. From what i have heard, the fluval is easier to maintain than the eheim

[Proteus]

From what i have heard, the fluval is easier to maintain than the eheim

I would disagree with this from personal experience, however, each to there own. Neither of them are difficult to maintain if that helps.

[TeeFM]

Are there any methods that you can keep the filter media together in 2217? People have suggested using lady's stockings as a substitute for baskets, what are your opinions?

[oldschoolculture]

I have only heard that the eheim was difficult to maintain, never been rich enough to own one :( . You can buy filter media bags pretty cheap. I believe that fluval has their own brand

[Davo]

oldschoolculture,

Have a look at www.SeaMe.com

This online firm sell topline aquarium brands for prices that are HEAPS cheaper than over here in Australia. The shipping is also free if you spend over $120 and they ship to Australia.

The company is in Holland.

They sell the latest Eheim Professional II 2028 which has the push prime function for $305.

HTH
Dave.

[TeeFM]

has anyone purchased from www.seame.com

are they reliable? How about the electricity voltage? do they have the same voltage as ours?

[Proteus]

ok, first of all, you have no warranty, and you lose the whole sales & service aspect of buying local.


NOTE: All filters and pumps are 220-250V / 50Hz and with an Europlug

You will need an adaptor (however they arent expensive)


Your order will be prepared with proper shipping documentation. All shipping invoices, bills-of-lading, declarations, and all other shipping documentation will be printed in English. We are not responsible for any delays caused by the customs department or other government agencies of your country.

You need to add duties and GST to the total, if more than the allowable limit.

To summarise, yes you can buy from Seame.com, but isnt it better to keep our Aussie dollars down under?

[TeeFM]

good point....

where is the best/cheapest place to buy Eheim product in Australia? I heard that they've got a new dealer in Aust and the price is coming down, is that true?

[Davo]

TeeFM,

Obviously if you buy from overseas the warranty is void but with a brand like Eheim you will rarely have any problems with them as they are a high quality product.

I don't think that the price of the 2028 $305 will attract any duties etc but don't quote me on that.

Buttnaked purchased a De Bary UVS from them and apparently had no problems.

There is a big price difference $576 compared to $305.

The choice is up to you and as Proteus stated, it doesn't hurt to keep our hard earned cash over here.

Dave.

[Honk]

Hi,

I don't know where you got your price of $576 on the 2028. I purchased one from ALA for $485 + $6.00 postage to sydney and it arrived in a couple of day.

John