Out of Sight & Space-Saving: External filters sit outside the tank, connected with just one inlet and one outlet pipe. This keeps the aquarium uncluttered and frees up space inside the tank. They can often be placed inside a cabinet beneath the tank, keeping equipment neatly hidden.
Larger Media Capacity: External filters can hold significantly more filter media, improving filtration efficiency. The increased surface area also provides more space for beneficial bacteria to colonise, supporting a healthier aquarium ecosystem.
Boosts Aquarium Water Capacity: Some external filters can hold several litres of water, effectively increasing your tank’s total water volume.
Customisable Media Setup: You can use a wider variety of filter media and arrange it in the order that best suits your filtration needs.
Easier Maintenance: Cleaning and replacing filter media can be done without entering the tank, making upkeep simpler and less disruptive to your aquatic environment.
Higher Flow Rates: External filters can achieve much higher flow rates than internal filters, making them ideal for larger aquariums or setups that require strong circulation.
Flow Control Options: Many external filters allow attachments on the outlet to adjust how water re-enters the tank, giving you more control over water movement and distribution.
For more guidance, see our blog post on how to choose the correct filter for your aquarium.