8 Best Filter for 75 Gallon Tank in 2023 (Reviews and Buying Guide)

Keeping an aquarium can be fun, and it is often relaxing to peek inside the aquarium and get lost in the serenity of the underwater aquatic life. But, this fun can soon turn into a chaotic mess if you do not take proper care of your tank. When we are talking about a huge 75 gallon fish tank, it is a must that you do proper cleaning to ensure the healthy living of your fishes, and for proper cleaning, you need a good filter.

Filter comes in different shapes and sizes, but when you are working a colossal 75 gallon tank, you need to consider many things while choosing the best filter.

It would be best if you always consider a filter that matches the volume of your tank, and expert aquarists advise that your filter should be able to turn your water in the 75 gallon tank 3-5 times per hour.

 

Best Filters for 75 Gallon Fish Tank:

When choosing the best filter for a 75 gallon fish tank, you will have many different options, but Canister to hang-on-back filters stand out from the rest. Hence, Down below, I will be discussing both the canister filter and backflow filters. You can choose the type that you are most comfortable with based on this review since both types come with their own benefits.

 

Best Canister filter of 75 Gallon Tank:

 

1. Fluval External Filter 406

Dimension and Weight:

It comes with a dimension of 7.6 x 14.5 x 17.8 inches with a weight of 10 pounds.

Product Description:

Fluval is a well-renowned brand when it comes to making filters; they make filters for mostly all sizes of the tank. Their External filter 406 works very well with 75 gallon tanks.

You can utilize it with both freshwater and saltwater aquariums, and it will be similarly successful with either. It comes with very advanced motors which ensure that there is a healthy flow rate kept up in the aquarium in any event, during the filtration.

This Filter comes with everything that you will need to set up the filter; you will get filter media, filter and assembling components along with the Fluval External Filter.

You can set it up very easily by following the instruction manual that comes with the filter.

Pros

• Comes with their own patented aqua stop valve design which allows disconnecting the hoses quickly.
• The operation is soundless due to their unique sound damping impeller.
• The Fluval Filter has a clog-proof strainer which allows easy cleaning.

Cons

• The price is a bit on the higher side.

 

Our thoughts on the Fluval External Filter 406

The Fluval External Filter is an outstanding quality Canister filter that ensures proper cleaning of your 75 gallon fish tank due to its advanced motor. The self-priming button makes it more comfortable to use compared with the manual siphon, and the Impeller is designed to be sound dampening; hence you won’t even feel if it is running.

The best part of this filter is the four enormous filter media plates; you will able to use different types of filter media and perform multi-stage filtration of three kinds: Biological, Mechanical, and chemical.

 

2. Polar Aurora 3–Stage Filter

Dimension and Weight:

It has a dimension of 10 x 10 x 16 inches with a weight of around 7-8 pounds.

Product Description

Polar Aurora is specially designed to be a heavy-duty filter for a large tank like a 75 gallon tank. It comes with an impressive 265 GPH flow rate. The filter is also stylish looking from the outside and is powered by a heavy 18W motor.

As the name suggests, The polar aurora filters dirty water through an immense 3-stage filtration, and here all ammonia, nitrates, and chemical impurities are removed from the water.

The operation is soundless, and there are no vibrations. Along with that, the spray bar is adjustable; hence you can quickly point it in any directions you like inside the aquarium. More importantly, the hose is 4.6 feet long so you can store the filter hidden.

The pump is self-priming hence you won’t be needing manual siphoning. The single valve can be disconnected, which makes the maintenance easier.

Pros

• The filter is designed to last very long and give you maximum performance.
• Very easy to setup.
• The operation is soundless and significantly less vibration.
• The filter comes with an adjustable hose.
• No need for manual siphoning since the pump is self-priming.

Cons

• The Setup manual can be a bit complicated to read; you can take help from YouTube for easier setup.

 

Our thoughts on Polar Aurora 3- Stage Filter:

The Polar Aurora 3- stage filter is a very durable and high performing filter for your 75 gallon tank. The filter comes with three adaptable media plate that permits you to include other filtration media, for example, ceramic rings, carbons, and bio-balls to gain perfect biological, mechanical and chemical filtration. To summarize, it can be said that the filter performance is top notch.

 

3. Penn Plax Cascade Filter 1000

Dimension and Weight:

It has a dimension of 11.5 x 17 x 10 inches with a weight of around 12 pounds. 

Product Description

Penn Plax 1000 is one of the cheapest, yet most reliable canister filter for a 75 gallon tank. The Filter comes with a flow rate of 265 GPH and can be used for both Saltwater and freshwater. This filter comes with a multi-stage filter which ensures that every dirt is removed entirely.

The Filter will come as a complete kit; you will get every component that you need to set up the filter. Hence, you do not need to spend any extra money to set up the filter.

Moreover, the filter also comes with large trays, and these trays are very durable, which will serve you for very long. The additional flow rate control valve will make sure that you do not have any leakage issues.

The filter media is straightforward to change, as it comes with a simple easy-lift clamp through which you can easily access filtration media and also all other removable parts.

Pros 

• The design is aesthetically pleasing looking.
• Easy to remove flow valves and gain access to cleaning
• The filter can run for very long due to its large capacity tank.

Cons

• You can hear a little bit of sound while the filter is running.

 

Our thoughts on Pen Plax Cascade 1000 Filter

The Penn Plax Cascade 1000 is an ideal filter for those who are looking for a durable filter for their 75 gallon tank at an affordable budget. This is very easy to set up and can be used by beginners also. Even the starting is very easy, you will need to press the self-priming button on lip few times, and the filter will start and from there do all its operations automatically without needing any more assistance from you.

 

4. EHEIM Classic External Filter with media

Dimensions and weight

This filter has a dimension of 8 x 6.3 x 13.98 inches with a weight of 4.49 pounds.

Product Description

The EHEIM Classic has a unique feature which makes it a strong contender in our list of best filters for 75 gallon tank. It comes with Premo-elastic silicon sealing rings, and this ring helps to avoid any leakage issue by securely sealing the pump.

The filter designed to be versatile and can be used for larger fish tanks also rather than only 75 gallon tanks with a power flow rate of 164 GPH, your tanks are sure to get cleaned and filtered properly.

This classic filter uses sponge filters along with loose media that ensure effective scouring of the tank water, including removal of all impurities.

Its great chamber configuration is improved for the best stream and watercourse alongside the correct degrees of oxygen advancement required by the aquarium. The EHEIM Classic external filter comes with both valves and filter media, which incorporate EHEIM Mech and Substrat Pro.

Pros

• The Filter is leakproof due to its unique Premo-elastic silicon sealing rings.
• You will get all the filter media included with the filter.
• You can add extra media according to your needs.

Cons

• You have to manually prime the filter to get it going.

 

Our thoughts on EHEIM Classic External Canister Filter

If you are looking for a filter to clean your aquarium on a daily basis cheaply, then EHEIM Classic external canister filter can be a great choice. Their filtration quality is of the highest quality that ensures to get rid of all types of microscopic impurities, but they will get clogged up more often hence you need to clean the filter after every 2-3 weeks.

 

5. Ehm Fltr 2217

Dimension and Weight

This filter comes with a dimension of 11.1 x 8.3 x 15.8 inches with a weight of 14.3 Pounds.

Product Description

 The Ehm filters are not new in the field of filter making for aquariums. The Ehm Fltr 2217 is an old and very durable model for large tanks; you can use them in your 75 gallon tanks for proper filtration as well as in other larger tanks like 100 gallon tanks.

The filter has a flow rate of 264 GPH. When setting up, it doesn’t need a lot of support and runs for quite a while before the filter media needs to be changed. This filter has everything, all the characteristics that you would expect from a good filter for a 75 gallon tank. For example,

 The filter is designed for low maintenance with high efficiency. It works through a single chamber where you can choose the type of filter you want to use. More importantly, you do not need to clean the filter often; you can clean the filer media in once in 3–6 months.

Pros

• The unit is easy to do maintenance, clean and setup.
• You can use filter media of your own choice.
• You can clean the filet media once in 3–6 months.

Cons

• Filters can sometimes get clogged up.

 

Our thoughts on Ehm Fltr 2217

If you are in search for an easy to use and maintain the unit, then the Ehm Fltr 2217 can be a perfect option for you. This filter isn’t very advance like the new models, but this will get your job done easily ate a low price. This filter will create a lot of air circulation at the top of your tank and provide your aquatic animals in the 75 gallon tank with a healthy living environment.

 

Best HOB (Hang–on–back) filter for 75 Gallon Tanks

If you do not like the canister filters, then you choose the best filter of 75 gallon tank from this range of the hang-on-back filters

 

1. Marineland Penguin Power Filter 350

Dimension and Weight

This filter has a dimension of 15.25 x 6.12 x 8 inches with a weight of 3.53 Pounds.

Product Description

The Marineland Penguin Power Filter comes with a heavy flow rate of 350 GPH, and while cleaning a large tank like a 75 gallon tank, you do require a massive power like this. The most highlighted feature of this filter is a progressive two–pump structure and Bio–wheel wet/dry natural filtration framework that provides filtration like no other.

This filter is designed to provide filtration in three stages; biological, chemical and mechanical. It uses two Rite–Size C filters that keep your 75 gallon tank clean. It requires practically no setup; you just have to connect all the parts inside the tank. You need to prime the wheel with the aquarium water, and the flow rate is adjusted with the mid–level strainer.

Pros

• You can have easy access to the filter cartridge due to the two–piece vented cover.
• The two–piece vented cover also helps in noise reduction.
• Marineland power filter provides you with three-stage filtration.

Cons

• Gravel can sometimes get sucked into the filter.

 

Our thoughts on Marineland Penguin Power Filter

If you are looking for a small,  yet effective filter for your 75 gallon tank then Marineland Penguin power filter can be a great option. It has a very lightweight and small built, yet it is able to provide with a power flow rate of 365 GPH which will ensure maximum cleaning and filtration of 75 gallon tank.

 

2. Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO

Dimension and Weight

It has a dimension of 12.9 x 8.4 x 6.6 inches with a weight of  2.9 Pounds.

Product Description:

The Aqueon QuiteFlow can be an excellent choice for beginner aquarists, and it performs very well with a huge flow rate of 400 GPH. The filter cartridge includes activated carbon as well as dense flosses.

The activated carbons help in the removal of all toxins and smells. On the other hand, dense flosses remove particles and trash and make sure that your water stays crystal clear.

They have also incorporated bio–holster, which is their own patented design. This bio–holster helps in the removal of nitrates and ammonia which are very harmful to your fishes, and fishes often die inside aquarium due to ammonia poisoning, there is also a diffuser framework that eliminates extra poisons and simultaneously includes oxygen which keeps your fish more dynamic. 

Pros

• The Filter cartridge consists of both dense flosses and as well as activated carbon.
• The filter is very lightweight and doesn’t require a lot of space to store it.
• Comes with patented bio–holster which helps in the removal of ammonia and nitrates.

Cons

• This filter can sometimes overheat.

 

Our thoughts on Aqueon Quiteflow LED Pro Filter

This is a perfect filter for a beginner aquarist due to its ease of use, and this is a very small filter which doesn’t require a lot of space; hence you don’t have to worry about finding a large space for this filter. The Aqueon Quiteflow reduced splash, and this can make the reduction quiet. So you won’t be hearing noises while the filter runs. The internal pump is designed to be leakproof and can automatically start after power loses.

 

3. AquaClear 110 power filter

Dimension and weight

It has a dimension of 17.4 x 12.5 x 11 inches with a weight of 4.52 Pounds.

Product Description

This is one of the more renowned brands of the hang-on-back filters. The AquaClear 110 has an immense flow rate of 500 GPH. This filter is energy efficient, so you will be saving money while it runs and along with that, the AquaClear offers a re-filtration system.

When it comes to Filtration volume, the AquaClear has a seven times larger filtration volume compared to other filters. Even the filter media that comes with are of the highest quality. That includes; Activated carbon, AquaClear foam and Biomax. They also created a re-filtration system known as Cycle Guard, which is very effective; the media, along with the Cycle Guard system, ensures perfect filtration and cleaning of your 75 gallon tank.

Pros

• It comes with the patented Re-filtration system known as Cycle Guard.
• The Filter contains three different types of filter media, including Biomax.
• The Filtration volume is seven times larger than other filters of the same range.
• The Cycle Guard can reduce the flow rate up to 50% without reducing efficiency.

Cons

• If you do not install it properly, the filter can become quite noisy.

 

Our thoughts on AquaClear 110 HOB Filter

AquaClear 110 is a very popular hang-on-back filter for 75 gallon tanks, due to their unique re-filtration technology and also use of Biomax as filter media. This filter can clean your tank without leaving any toxins or ammonia behind giving your fishes a healthy living environment. Moreover, the filter is very easy to set up that even a beginner can set it up easily following the instruction manual.

 

Buying Guide for the Best Filter for 75 Gallon Tank

No matter, which filters you choose from our list of best filter for 75 gallon tank you must know how to choose a filter. Everyone’s requirement for a filter is different, and hence you must know how to select your filter properly to keep your tank clean and toxin-free.

Motor Of the filter                                                                                                       

Motors are very important while choosing a good filter since the motor is responsible for pumping water into the filter, which will start the filtration process.
Some motors are very noisy, while some are quiet. So, it is essential for you that you choose a motor that doesn’t make too much sound. While choosing the motor, you have to see if the motor needs frequent maintenance, some motors require maintenance very often, which can be quite irritating. It is advised that you should go for a motor that requires less maintenance.

The positioning of your filter

Well if you are going for a hang on back filters, then you do not need to worry a lot about placing the filter because they are usually quite small and requires very less space o keep.

However, if you are going for a canister filter, since these are pretty big and requires space to keep them, so, you need to consider your available space and the filter you are choosing for your 75 gallon tank.

If your filter is short and you own a stand for keeping your aquarium, then you can hide your filter in the cabinet of the stand. But, in case your filter is tall, you might have to look for other paces to keep them.

Durability

You simply don’t want to waste your money on a filter that doesn’t serve you for long. So, it is important that you should look for a filter which is durable and made of strong plastic. Most of the filters are made up of plastic, so while choosing the filter, make sure that the construction is made from a heavy–duty plastic that can stand pressure and lasts for years.

Budget

This is probably the most common point that you need to consider while choosing a filter for your 75 gallon tank. Try to do your research and select the filter that matches your budget. Filter comes at various prices, starting from a very low cost to expensive ones. So, you should not have a problem in finding a one that matches your budget.

 

Frequently asked questions

1. How Can I Prime a canister filter?

 Answer: There are two types of priming options. One is self–priming, and the other is manual priming. You will find a manual with the filter which shows you how to prime the filter. Most commonly, after assembling your filter, you need to submerge the filter inside the tank and turn on the power. Slowly tilt the filter to the side in a way that the impeller is submerged and then start the suction.

 

2. Should I choose a canister or a hold on back filter for a 75 gallon tank?

Answer: The choice depends on your preferences; Above I have discussed about both the canister and hold on back filters. Both types got their own advantages and disadvantages, so you should read the list carefully and choose the kind that you like the most.

 

3. Do all filters come with filter media?

Answer:  This depends on the model of the filter, some offer free filter media along with the filter, and for others, you have to buy with extra money. While choosing a filter for your 75 gallon tank, please read the description properly where it will be stated that whether filter media are included or not.

 

Conclusion

Owning an aquarium can become troublesome if you don’t follow the proper rules and maintenance. When you are working with a 75 gallon tank, it is a must that you should choose a correct filter. The market is full of choices, and it becomes hard to find the best one. Hence, this guide was written to help you find the best filter for 75 gallon tank. Here I have discussed about 8 different filters, each offering something unique than others and each having a different price tag. Now, it shouldn’t be hard for you anymore to find the best filter for a 75 gallon tank. However, it is a request that doesn’t just rely on my list for choosing the best filter do your own research also and then buy the one that you like the most.