hygger Quiet Hang On Back Aquarium Filter 5-30 Gallon

The hygger Quiet Hang On Back Aquarium Filter, model HG150, is made for 5-30 gallon freshwater tanks. It’s rated at 6 watt with a max flow of 132gph, and it adds a feature most small hang-on filters lack: a clear waste collector you can drain.

The waste collector

Water rises through the intake into a transparent tube with a stainless steel rotary drum. The drum sieves out large particles such as fish waste and leaves. A drainage outlet lets you attach a hose and drain dirty water straight out. The hose isn’t included; hygger recommends 1/23 ID.

Three stages

After the drum, water flows through chambers with 3 floss pads and ceramic balls. You can stack activated carbon in as well, which is sold separately, to remove odors and discoloration.

Outlets and skimmer

• Spray bar for even surface movement and aeration.
• Directional spout.
• Air pipe that adds oxygen bubbles.

A surface skimmer removes floating oils and film.

Fit

A 9.8 inches telescopic intake adjusts to tank height, and the water level can drop as low as 4cm. Two clips mount it on rimless tanks. It suits fish tanks, planted tanks, and tanks with turtles, newts or frogs.

Using the drain

Draining the collector during weekly water changes removes waste before it breaks down, which helps keep nitrate lower between changes.

The spray bar suits planted tanks, where you want gentle, spread-out flow across the surface. The directional spout gives more current for active fish. Turn the flow control down for bettas or shrimp, and cover the intake with a sponge if you keep very small shrimp. Rinse the floss pads in tank water and replace them once they stop coming clean.

Alternatives

For a basic nano filter, the NICREW slim HOB is simpler. For 40 gallons and up, see the hygger hang-on canister filter.