All about Tetra filters for the aquarium: review, feedback, recommendations

The health and happiness of your fish and plants depend on you keeping your aquarium clean and well-maintained. To achieve this, a trustworthy filtration system is essential. Tetra filters stand out among the many options available because of their effectiveness and simplicity of use.

This post will discuss the various Tetra filter varieties, give a summary of their features, and present comments from aquarium hobbyists. Knowing the benefits and drawbacks of these filters will enable you, regardless of level of experience, to choose the best option for your aquatic setup.

Additionally, we’ll provide some helpful advice on how to get the most out of your Tetra filter so that your aquarium continues to be a vibrant and lovely space.

Aquarium enthusiasts frequently choose Tetra filters because they provide dependable performance and user-friendliness to maintain a clean tank and healthy fish. A comprehensive description of Tetra filters, including their types, advantages, and actual user reviews, is given in this article. Additionally, you’ll discover suggestions for optimizing the performance of your Tetra filter as well as helpful advice on selecting the ideal filter for your aquarium.

Old series Tetra EX Plus filter

Tetra Ex 400, 600, 800, and 1200 Plus are the four filters that make up the previous series. They vary in pump power and water pumping volume. Our analysis of Tetra filters’ previous iteration.

Aquarium water needs continuous flow through the filtration system to maintain the health of the fish and plants. Water can be safely and dependable filtered to remove excess nutrients while preserving its high quality with Tetra IEX filter technology.

External Tetra EX Plus filter:

– Gives fish safe, clear water, transforming the aquarium into a memorable pastime;

– Simple and rapid filter media cleaning;

– Extremely strong and silent filter;

– Everything you need for a quick and simple installation is included in the kit, including all filter fillers;

– Comes with valves for accurate pressure regulation and a water pumping system to activate the filter;

– A mechanism to swiftly and securely cut off the filter from the water flow;

– Hose connections made simple with adjustable connections;

– Outfitted with a pre-filtration feature to lessen maintenance requirements;

– A three-year warranty and TÜV/GS certificates attest to the product’s quality;

Let’s now examine what is written in the instructions by turning to them.

A promotional video about how to install the Tetra EX Plus filter should also be watched. The following video will assist us in visualizing the topic of our conversation:

As the article’s author, let me state that I am the proud owner of the Tetra EX 600 Plus, which is presently devotedly employed in the aquarium known as Aquascape "Through Thorns to the Stars." I am satisfied with the filter because it is quiet—one could even say noiseless—filters effectively, and doesn’t cause a "storm" in my grass tank when I use a flute.

Let’s examine this set of filters in more detail by using a well-written forum review that was submitted on the Aquafanat forum by a user going by the username "pyk." As a 2014 new product, it includes images and information about the Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter.

I made an effort to give the filter’s testing and report the proper consideration and diligence. Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter is a recent addition to the market that offers numerous improvements. It is my hope that my report will assist the reader in selecting the appropriate Tetra external filter.

Prior to delving into the test findings, let me clarify for the readers that the test subject, the Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter, is a member of the recently launched line of enhanced external filters from the well-known Tetra.

Tetra is a highly well-known brand worldwide. And after years of labor and dedication to producing high-quality goods, the company has gained this respect among aquarists. The engineers at the company keep a close eye on emerging trends in contemporary aquaristics and assess the increasing needs of aquarists. This makes it possible for the Tetra company to create cutting-edge products that aquarists around the globe are requesting.

Tetra EX 1200 Plus, the tested external filter, is the result of cutting-edge engineering and contemporary technologies.

PRIMARY ACQUAINTANCE

Examination of the Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter and packaging from the outside.

Filter packaging is more than just a pretty box! This well-considered tutorial provides an overview of the features of the filter model, including recommended installation and start-up procedures in addition to its technical specifications.

What, where, and how are all made clear by the packaging’s graphics. Indeed, having instructions in Russian eliminates any confusion regarding the drawings and diagrams. This is a big benefit!

I would like to call your attention to the fact that it is best to carefully read the user manual before assembling and turning on. This will shield you from potential issues and malfunctions.

The Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter box’s handy handle, which makes it simple to hold the filter in your hands, is another benefit.

I won’t go into too much detail about the packaging. I’m quite curious to see what’s inside. It was evident from a cursory examination that the Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter had undergone significant updating and improvement. Positive results were obtained from the Tetra EX 1200 Plus right away. Additionally, the Tetra EX Plus filter outperforms filters from other brands in a number of areas.

TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION

Gaining an understanding of the technical aspects of the filter is crucial, as it determines how well it functions in your aquarium. The primary parameters, technical details, function, and features of the Tetra EX 1200 Plus external filter are shown in the diagrams below.

For informational purposes only! In comparison to the earlier EX series filters, the Tetra EX 1200 Plus external filter is an upgraded and better product.

I would like to bring to your notice that the Tetra EX 1200 Plus, the newly enhanced external filter, now uses 21.5 W! The Tetra EX 1200 filter’s previous iteration uses 26 W. You have to admit that this is a big difference, considering the filter needs to function around the clock, every day. One crucial component is economical energy use!

The stated pumping capacity of 1200 liters per hour piqued my interest as well! This parameter is exaggerated by some manufacturers. I shall thus start by testing the filter pump directly.

1. Pumping from bucket to bucket on the floor at zero water lift height.

Of course, there are barrels with 50 liters; I did not pump the 1200 liters. After I gave it a try, I continued the calculations. It was found to be approximately 1300 liters per hour.

2. Pumping with no extra load on the system at a lift height of 90 cm.

With the filter in place, I was able to get about 1200 liters per hour. which is genuinely pleasing as well. This is the declared characteristic, after all!

3. Pumping with an attached external sterilizer for filters at a lifting height of ninety centimeters.

Calculations revealed that the output was roughly -1150 liters per hour. And as if it were a sign!

In conclusion, I was happy with the outcomes of pumping water through a filter. They match the manufacturer’s declarations pretty well. Getting to know the Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter even more

The Tetra EX PLUS Filter Head

I will state up front that the housing is of the greatest quality possible; burrs, microcracks, colored spots, etc., are nonexistent.p. Tetra engineers revised the filter head cover after considering user feedback. It now has two handles for carrying the filter on the sides of the cover. This model had one handle in the past.

The filter start button’s design was altered by engineers. Specifically, the seals’ location ensures that the button won’t stick while the filter is operating for an extended period of time. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the filter start button was incredibly smooth, especially since the filter was brand-new when I received it. The first time, I was able to press this button with almost no effort at all.

The Tetra EX 1200 Plus’s new filter head sealing system, which replaces the sealing ring with a flat gasket in the cover, really pleased me. This is excellent.

The rotor structure has also been modified by Tetra engineers. The sticking effect should be eliminated by rotating the rotor now. Even so, this wasn’t an issue in earlier iterations. However, this is also a positive step.

The ceramic axis is still robust and thick. After removing four screws, the filter head’s top cover is simply removed. Within is a pump that is fully loaded with resin. You don’t need to worry about the tightness because the Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter’s water inlet and outlet tubes are a very pleasing thickness.

Additionally, after taking off the cover, the "Start" button’s construction is visible. It is simple to unscrew, allowing you to access the button’s interior and seals.

Upon unscrewing the rotor cover to examine the interior, I was delighted to find water droplets – this indicates that Tetra EX 1200 Plus external filters undergo factory testing prior to being shipped to retailers!

A few filter head components are shown below, along with commentary on the diagrams.

The Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter has undergone yet another improvement: the filter head latches are now restricted to the filter canister. Compared to the previous version, this is far more convenient.

TAPI ADAPTER

A new hose connector that offers enhanced protection against leaks. It’s grown even heavier and bigger. The water flow can be gradually adjusted with the flow shut-off valve. This spacecraft is real. The plastic has a very nice quality. Every component is sturdy and dependable, and every seal is greased.

The Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter’s flow shut-off valve and independent valves at the filter’s inlet and outlet allowed for easy water flow adjustment, which I found to be very convenient. With valves, flow can be adjusted very smoothly—there are no delays or sticking.

The tap adapter is easy to disassemble. First off, the adapter itself has lock indicators with instructions on it. Secondly, you won’t encounter any problems once you read the instructions:

To stop the water from passing through the filter, first turn up the flow regulator to its highest setting. Remove the filter from the 220 V network power supply, lift the green lock adapter, rotate it in accordance with the adapter’s indicators, and lift the tap adapter.

The idea behind removing the tap adapter from the Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter is depicted in the diagram below.

I should also mention that you can easily unscrew the taps from the adapter and turn the water inlet and outlet pipes to a convenient position. Take caution—the tap pipes on the adapter do not revolve 180 degrees on their axis.

Cautionary Note:

– NEVER PLUG THE FILTER HEAD IN APARTMENT FROM THE CANISTR AND WITHOUT AN AQUARIUM CONNECTION.

– IN THE EVENT THAT THE POWER WIRE, PUMP, OR HOUSING HAVE MECHANICAL DAMAGE, NEVER TURN ON THE FILTER.

– AVOID TEMPTING TO FIX FILTER IMPERFECTS YOURSELF. GET IN TOUCH WITH THE TETRA Technical Support Service.

Fillers and Filter Baskets

Aquarium water is made clean by passing it through an external filter, which is why filtering baskets and containers are made to hold different fillers.

The Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter has four baskets, which is the same number of filter containers as before. These baskets’ fillers were also the same as they were in the earlier filter iteration.

Pictures of the baskets and their fillers are shown in the diagram below.

Every basket has a circular channel for water to flow through in the corner. Because of the way they are constructed, the baskets come together to form a single block. As a result, the aquarium water flows through a solid channel down the filter canister.

The Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter’s fillers are:

1. Rings made of ceramic.

3. Sponge with large pores.

Fourth, activated carbon.

5. A sponge for fine cleaning.

A more thorough description of each filter element in the Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter is provided in the diagram below.

In regards to the fillers, I have good conclusions. The Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter has all the components needed to create superior biofiltration.

PARTS OF THE FILTER

Excellent external filter is the Tetra EX 1200 Plus. The principal elements of the Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter are shown in the diagram below.

A portion of the apparatus is still in place:

1. There are two 1.65-meter-long silicone hoses.

2. A transparent plastic intake tube.

3. Flute sprinkler.

4. Fasteners and suction cups.

However, innovations have also been made!

– A prefilter, or filter for initial purification of aquarium water, has been introduced. This is a big benefit. It will stop small fish and shrimp from getting into the filter itself in addition to keeping larger debris out of the filter canister.

– There have been major modifications made to the U-shaped tubes for the filter’s water inlet and outlet. First of all, they are now opaque and made of black plastic. Secondly, the bends are much smoother, making cleaning them easier.

FASTENERS AND SUCTION CUPS

There are more than enough suction cups provided. This is definitely a plus—two more seals. The rubber is fairly pliable and adheres to the glass nicely. Superior plastic molding.

NEVER FORGET!

– Make sure you read the instructions before beginning to assemble the parts and attach the hoses to the Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter. After accurately measuring the hoses’ length from the aquarium’s upper edge to the filter head taps, trim any excess. It is preferable to make multiple checks rather than lament an error.

– To stop leaks, insert the silicone hoses onto the pipes up to the stopper. Only then, tighten the fixing nuts.

TESTING UNDER WATER

Okay, so what The filter is then installed, powered on, and assembled in accordance with the instructions. The only things left to do are control the water flow and ensure there are no leaks anywhere. We will also open and clean the filter materials and hoses in a few weeks.

This planted aquarium, which holds roughly 200 liters of clean water, will be used for testing.

I’ll write it again: the outlet pipe of the Tetra EX 1200 Plus external filter should be above the water when you first turn it on or after cleaning it.

PUSHING

An instant after turning on the filter and connecting it to the 220V network, a HURRICANE appeared in the aquarium! However, this was to be expected because, to start, my 200-liter aquarium already has an external filter in place.

At this point, the filter power adjustment started. It’s AMAZING how you can change the Tetra EX 1200 Plus external filter’s power! By obstructing the tube holes, the flow control lever on the tap adapter instantly lowers the power at the input and output simultaneously.

Why did you simultaneously connect two external filters? Everything is really easy to understand. An imbalance and other issues may result from the biological filtration system failing if a new filter is connected to an aquarium that is already operational. As a result, the second external filter will function as a biologically stable device and prevent an aquarium system failure while the new Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter builds up beneficial bacteria inside the canister, which will take a few weeks.

As was previously mentioned, the declared results of the actual filter pumping testing were about 1200 l / h, or roughly 6.6 aquarium volumes.

This power is more than sufficient for my aquarium with plants. It is evident that the power reserve will be sufficient even with contaminated filter sponges and padding polyester, despite the fact that the measurements were conducted using clean filter materials. The most important thing is to remove any large debris from the prefilter at least once every two weeks.

AUDIO AND SKYCRAFT

Before testing this external filter from Tetra – Tetra EX 1200 Plus, I had already dealt with several filters from different manufacturers, including older versions of Tetra filters. But they were all less powerful. At the moment, I had the JBL e900 filter working. I thought that this filter was very quiet, the aquarium stand is located in the bedroom, and at night in complete silence it is barely audible, even considering that there are no doors on the stand. And to be honest, when I started the filter from Tetra, I was afraid that two filters would already create some noise. Moreover, the Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter is clearly more powerful than JBL. I started it during the day and even then I was very surprised by the quiet operation of the Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter. Moreover, when I first started the external filter from JBL, there was literally a couple of days of slight noise, until at least some “fouling” of the rotor occurred. Right there from the first minutes SILENCE! Of course, if you listen very closely, or bring your head closer to the filter itself, then its operation is audible. But in general within the room – SILENCE! This is a HUGE plus at such a power! Still, 1200 liters is not 600 or 900 liters per hour.

Furthermore, it appears that the new Tetra EX 1200 Plus is even quieter than the JBL e900 filter by alternating between turning these two filters on and off! With a 1200 liters per hour capacity, vibration is likewise barely perceptible.

After a week or so, I will switch off the JBL so that the Tetra EX 1200 Plus can function on its own. The filter has been in operation for a few weeks.

QUALITY OF FILTRATION

I don’t currently have any complaints regarding the Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter’s ability to effectively clean aquarium water. The filter does its job flawlessly, and the aquarium’s water is spotless (free of tiny debris or visible dirt particles).

The external Tetra EX 1200 Plus filter functions as it should because water testing conducted during the first few days of operation revealed no appreciable departures from the standard in terms of the amount of dangerous substances present.

The agreement between the stated and actual characteristics, and especially the lack of noise while the system was in operation, really pleased me.

Many thanks to "Pyk"’sauthorfor a well-written review.

As of right now, I believe the reader is fully aware of the Tetra EX Plus external filter series. Lastly, a video detailing the Tetra Ex 800 Plus external filter’s assembly and installation

We now know about the Tetra external filter series, but there is more to the company’s filter lineup! A variety of Tetra internal filters are part of the arsenal! Let’s examine each of them separately.

Tetra EasyCrystal filter

Details taken from the business’s official website: Tetra EasyCrystal is an internal filter that uses chemical, biological, and mechanical cleaning to maintain clear, healthy water!

What is Tetra EasyCrystal?

– Mechanical cleaning: dependable removal of the tiniest dirt particles with a double-sided filter sponge. Green side for complete fine filtration, white side for pre-filtration.

– Using biological filtration, use bio-balls and filter sponges with a lot of surface area to help good bacteria settle in.

– Chemical filtration: offensive odors and water pollution are eliminated by special activated carbon.

– Cleaning the EasyCrystal filter is quite simple; the cartridge only needs to be changed every four weeks. You won’t have to wash the filter sponge, keeping your hands dry!

Enhances water circulation through the use of a strong magnetic turbine.

– The aquarium’s compact design lets you conserve room.

– for 15 to 40 liter aquariums.

– free placement with suction cups inside the aquarium.

– TÜV/GS quality control certificates.

Tetra EasyCrystal FilterBox 300 and 600

These internal filters are essentially quite similar to the EasyCrystal 250 filter that was used previously. but possess several unique qualities!

The Tetra EasyCrystal FilterBox is an aquarium filter that has an internal thermostat compartment. For the best aquarium water filtration, the EasyCrystal FilterBox filter is a small aquarium kit that lets you save room in the aquarium. You can incorporate a thermostat into the EasyCrystal FilterBox filter by using an extra section (the Tetra HT 50 thermostat is recommended; the thermostat is not included in the delivery).

Tetra EasyCrystal FilterBox 300: designed for 40–60 liter aquariums.

Tetra EasyCrystal FilterBox 600: appropriate for 50–150 liter aquariums as well.

Let’s view a video about the filters mentioned above.

Tetra EasyCrystaland FilterBox for Tetra EasyCrystal

Thus, we have examined yet another Tetra filter series. These filters, which the "people" refer to as backpacks, are suspended over aquariums to produce the illusion of a waterfall. We will conclude from Internet usage that our "folk craftsmen" employ these filters in various ways. There are those who use them for "biology," meaning they completely fill the backpacks with ceramic rings to achieve effective biological filtration, and others who concentrate on "mechanics," meaning they pack the filter full of sponges. Some even modify backpacks to act as phytofilters by adding hydrophilic plants to them. Everything here indicates that the EasyCrystal filter line is spacious, practical, and multipurpose!

Tetra IN plus internal filter

IN 600, IN 800, IN 1000, IN 300, IN 400, and IN 600

An aquarium’s water can be mechanically, biologically, and chemically purified with this robust and practical internal filter.

There are two cleaning chambers in the filter.

One filter sponge is always present in the chamber, so cleaning just one filter chamber can minimize the loss of beneficial bacteria.

– The filter itself stays in the aquarium while being cleaned.

– The device’s redesigned construction enables you to remove the filter fillers without coming into contact with the filter sponge.

– The water circulation in each aquarium is customized.

– 180-degree rotating outlet nozzles.

– an extra air intake featuring a movable Venturi mechanism.

– lovely and small design that requires little room.

– sturdy suction cups that enable a secure attachment of the filter to the surface.

– Activated carbon and biological sponge are accessible as replacement parts.

– Certificates of quality control from TÜV/GS and CE

We would like to bring to the reader’s attention that this series of filters has weak aeration due to the weakness of the Venturi system; in actuality, it is a convenient mechanical filter that lacks aeration. Filling it with carbon, zeolite, and other materials is fantastic.

A review of the Tetra IN plus filter through visual video

Tetra Brillant Filter airlift filter

Ultimately, we have arrived at what can be considered the "youngest" member of the Tetra filter family. Mighty little but powerful! The Tetra Brillant Filter, also known as an airlift filter, has a working principle that you can learn more about on our forum. These filters are ideal for spawning aquariums, aquariums with small shrimp, and aquariums with fish. These filters reduce the possibility of aquatic organisms being harmed by suction.

Tetra Brillant Filter description:

Air suction tube and filter sponge are part of the internal filter.

– the best method for biologically and mechanically purifying water.

– Filter sponge is composed of dense, premium non-toxic material.

The sponge’s structure, which resembles a porous labyrinth, encourages the colonization of helpful bacteria that are essential to many biological processes.

– After prolonged use, the sponge’s structure remains unchanged.

– increases the supply of oxygen, which improves water circulation.

– lightweight and simple to operate.

Perfect in tandem with the Tetra APS 100 air compressor.

– for fish tanks holding up to 100 liters.

Topic Description
Tetra Filter Types An overview of different Tetra filters available, including internal, external, and sponge filters.
User Feedback Common user opinions on the performance and durability of Tetra filters.
Maintenance Tips Simple recommendations for keeping your Tetra filter clean and efficient.
Installation Guide Basic steps to install a Tetra filter in your aquarium.
Price Range Approximate cost of Tetra filters and where to find the best deals.

Aquarium enthusiasts frequently choose Tetra filters because of their dependability and user-friendliness. These filters offer a variety of options to suit any tank size and fish type, regardless of experience level.

Consumer reviews demonstrate how effective Tetra filters are at preserving aquarium cleanliness, preserving water quality, and promoting the wellbeing of aquatic life. Users value how easy it is to install and maintain, as well as how silently they operate.

Take into account the particular requirements of your aquarium, such as the size of the tank, the quantity of fish, and the kind of filtration you need, when selecting a Tetra filter. You can easily maintain a colorful, healthy aquarium with the correct filter in place.

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Elena Grishina

Ecologist and aquarist with a special interest in creating balanced ecosystems in aquariums. Main focus — ecosystems that require minimal human intervention. I support a natural approach to aquarium care, where each element plays its role, helping to maintain harmony in a closed ecosystem. I promote sustainable aquarium keeping and respect for nature.

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