I love my AquaClear 20 Power Filter on my 5.5-gallon tank. It functions well and is so quiet I barely even notice it when it’s running. It’s also easy to maintain and switch out the media. You can even adjust the water flow from a lever on the top of the unit. What more could you ask for in an aquarium filter?

AquaClear is a 3-stage filter and it comes with these media inserts:

• Foam Sponge Insert (Mechanical)
• Activated Carbon Insert (Chemical)
• BioMax Insert (Biological)

Depending on your aquarium water change schedule and needs:

• Clean the foam sponge during every water change
• Replace the charcoal once a month (or more often if needed)
• Replace the BioMax every 3 months

As with any filtration system, never replace more than one of the media inserts at a time. Wait at least a few days to a week in-between replacement.

Money Saving Tip #1: You NEVER need to replace the foam sponge that comes with the filter. I’ve had mine for a few years now and it still strains the debris out of the water perfectly. Simply remove the sponge during a water change and squeeze out a few times in the old water you’ve removed from the tank until it rinses clean (do not do this in water straight from your faucet – if you must, add a few drops of water conditioner to it first). Presto, good as new! The only reason you may ever need to replace the sponge is if it becomes torn or misshaped and doesn’t properly cover the bottom of the filter. It may become discolored over time, but it will still function fine.

Money Saving Tip #2: You don’t have to give in to their marketing tactics. If you don’t want to buy the AquaClear brand replacement media packs, such as charcoal, simply make your own for a lesser cost. You can find aquatic charcoal in bulk at most major pet stores, as well as the sleeves to pack it into. Just make sure you always secure the end of any do-it-yourself media pack well so it won’t leak. Personally, I don’t mind picking up their pre-made media inserts as I find the price reasonable and appreciate the convenience, but if you’re motivated to try it on your own it’s really quite easy and will save you money in the long run.

Recommended Supplies: