Eheim pimp or XP pimp? :-)

[Laith]

I am currently contemplating installing another tank, probably a 400L planted one and I'm looking at the equipment wish list ...

I have always thought that for my next aquarium I would definately buy an Eheim canister filter, having heard so many good things about the quality and quietness.

However, recently I have also been hearing very good things about Rena's "new" range of XP filters and would like the opinions of "pimps" of either persuation (Eheim or XP) on the two systems... this should be interesting!

My main criteria are, in no particular order:

- silent operation
- lots of space for biofilter material
- ease of maintenance
- quality

So, let the battles begin!

Laith

[George Willms]

Eheim has been around a lot longer and has a proven track record. The Rena's are too new to tell how they will be doing 5 or 6 years from now.

[Georgiadawgger]

I don't think there is a big battle at all. As George mentioned, Eheim has been around and has solidified its reputation as a solid company. I myself own both an XP3 and Eheim Classic 2213 and both work great for my needs. I did have initial problems with my XP3, but I received a replacement that has worked great ever since.

[Laith]

As you own and run both, which do you find quieter?

Laith

[aquaverde]

I’m an XP user and have pimped them occasionally, not an Eheim user, but on every point you raise, with the possible exception of ease of maintenance, the obvious choice is Eheim. The one biggest reason you would choose Rena is price, and I notice that one is glaringly absent from your list. As far as quiet is concerned, I don't call the XP quiet.


Go Eheim.

[Georgiadawgger]

My XP3 isn't necessarily loud. It humms, but I can barely hear it under my stand. The Eheim you can't hear at all. Put it this way, with central airconditioning or even the tv on you can't hear either filter.

[rumples riot]

Eheim is the Rolls Royce of the canister world. I have been using Eheims for nearly twenty years and have never known one to breakdown. I have know parts that have broken through my own rough handling, but with recent developments at Eheim my canister have not broken. The parts are now really strong.

The Eheims that I currently own; I have had for 4 years and they run quiet and require little maintenance. When you have to clean them they are quick and simple with the new quick release ends.

Buy an Eheim!

Paul

[you]

I have to say that in a quiet room the XP3 is very noticable. Not objectionable, just noticable. If you really want silent operation I'd go with the Eheim. If you can stand a little bit of noise, go with the much cheaper XP.

[corigan]

Originally Posted by Laith

My main criteria are, in no particular order:

- silent operation
- lots of space for biofilter material
- ease of maintenance
- quality

With those requirements I would just go with an eheim. The only reason I wouldn't see a reason to get an eheim would be if you were on a budget. I have to put my ear to the filters to see if they are even running. I have 3 (all classic models) and have had zero problems with any of them. Plenty of space for media and easy to maintain. I cleaned one of my 2213 (the first 3 month maintence) at about the 6 month mark (didn't notice any less flow) and it took me around 10-15 minutes to rinse and backflush it and get it back to running. 15 minutes of maintence over a 6 month period is pretty good if you ask me.

Matt

[Laith]

Thanks for all the great feedback!

Given the different inputs, I'll probably go with the Eheim. This way I also get to join the Eheim pimps club!

The range is a bit confusing though. I assume in decreasing order of features/quality (and price ) its the ProIIs, then the Pros, then the Classics, then the Eccos?

Assuming price is not an issue, which one is recommended and why? Their website isn't too clear on differentiating between them.

Thanks again!

Laith

[ninoboy]

Never used Ecco. But Pro2 is easier to maintain than classic IMO.

[George Willms]

ProII is a very nice and easy filter to use that works very well. I have one on each of my larger tanks.

[Cody]

Good choice on the Eheim! The XP I had did a great job on filtration, but was way too noisy. I ended up replacing it with an Eheim. I went with the classic series, which are not that much more than the Filstars.

[ColinAnderson]

Welp! I ended up going with an Eheim Classic 2215. After reading all of the comments, I decided I might as well spend a little more and have the added "quiet" bonus. I spent about $85 on it after shipping and everything, so overall it was a nice buy. I don't so much mind more involved filter cleanings -- so I wasn't too detoured by the lack of ease of cleaning as most people probably are. I just couldn't afford the $140 or so for a Pro II -- even getting this was pushing it!

[Momotaro]

I think you made a good choice. That filter should provide you with years of good service.


Mike