The Best Filters For Turtle Tanks: The Ultimate Guide!

Do you want to build a successful aquarium? If yes, then you should start with the basics. The first thing you need to consider is the filter system.

Regardless of whether you own a turtle or another kind of aquatic animal, making sure that you have the correct filter inside your tank will ensure that the tank’s ecosystem will be kept in check, while also making sure that your turtle has a safe living environment.

When it comes to choosing the best filters for turtle tanks, there are many options available on the market.

However, not all of them are suitable for use with turtles, and there are even some that won’t be able to provide your tank with the optimum efficacy.

The only question is, which turtle tank filter should you use?

If you’re currently in this boat, then rest assured that you have clicked on the right article!

In this article, we are going to be taking a closer look at some of the most popular filters currently available to buy on the market that are suitable for turtle tanks.

Along the way, we are also going to be including a helpful buying guide and F.A.Q to ensure you pick the right filters for you.

Let’s begin!

What Are Tank Filters?

Before we get into the details of what makes each of these filters so great, let’s take a moment to explain exactly what they do.

A filter is essentially an artificial ecosystem that sits within your tank. It does two main things:

1. It removes waste from the water
2. It provides oxygen to the fish

While both of these functions are important, when it comes to keeping a healthy tank, the removal of waste is far more crucial than providing oxygen.

This is because if you don’t remove the waste, it can cause serious problems for your fish. For example, ammonia levels can rise rapidly, leading to stress and illness.

Likewise, nitrates can lead to algae growth, which can eventually kill off your fish.

So, How do Filters Work? They Typically Consist of Three Parts

1. An intake pipe
2. A pump
3. A filter media

Each part performs its specific role in order to keep your tank clean and healthy.

Intake Pipe

This is where the water enters the filter. As such, it needs to be large enough to allow plenty of water through without causing any issues.

Pump

This is responsible for moving the water around. You’ll usually find that pumps come in either a submersible or surface-mounted variety.

Submersible pumps are ideal for smaller tanks, as they can easily fit underneath the tank itself. Surface-mounted pumps, meanwhile, are used for larger tanks.

Filter Media

This is the actual filtering element. There are different types of filter media out there, but generally speaking, they fall into one of four categories:

1. Activated carbon (AC)
2. Bio-balls
3. Sand
4. Sponge

Activated Carbon (AC)

This type of filter media is made up of tiny particles of activated carbon. These particles act like little sponges, absorbing toxins and other harmful chemicals from the water.

AC filters are often recommended for freshwater setups, as they tend to be less effective in saltwater environments.

Bio-Balls/Gravel

This particular kind of filter media consists of small pieces of gravel that have been coated with bacteria.

Bacteria consume ammonia and nitrates, while also producing beneficial nutrients for your fish.

Sand

Sand filters are similar to bio-ball filters, except that instead of having bacteria attached to the sand, they are simply covered in sand.

While this may seem like a no-brainer, it’s actually not always the best option.

The reason is that sand tends to clog up quickly, meaning that you need to change the filter regularly.

Sponge

Sponges are similar to sand filters, except that instead, they use natural sponge material.

Because they’re made of living organisms, they require very little maintenance. However, they only last about six months before they start to degrade.

Now that you know what each part of a filter does, let’s take a closer look at the various filter media types, as this will ultimately help you to decide which filter is going to be the best for your turtle tank.

This brings us to our next section:

Activated Carbon (Ac)

As mentioned above, activated carbon is an excellent choice for freshwater aquariums.

It works by trapping toxins and other harmful chemicals within the pores of the particles. This means that it won’t get washed away as quickly as other filter media types.

In addition, it will help remove chlorine and chloramine from the water, which is especially important if you live near a pool or spa.

Pros

• Easy to maintain
• Effective at removing ammonia and nitrates

Cons

• Only lasts 6 months before degrading
• Not suitable for saltwater

Bio-Balls

These are basically just big rocks covered in bacteria. They work much like activated carbon, except that they don’t trap anything inside their pores. Instead, they absorb toxins through osmosis.

As such, they aren’t quite as good at removing ammonia and nitrate, though they do a decent job overall.

Pros

• Cheap
• Easy to clean
• Can be reused indefinitely

Cons

• Doesn’t trap any contaminants
• Won’t remove heavy metals

Sand

Sand filters are great because they can be used in both fresh and saltwater tanks. Unlike bio-balls, they don’t contain any bacteria, so they won’t grow algae or cause odor problems.

However, they are usually more expensive than bio-balls, and they tend to clog up faster.

Pros

• Cheap
• Easy to clean
• Good for both fresh and saltwater

Cons

• Clogs up easily
• Expensive

Sponge

Sponges are one of the easiest filter media to keep alive. They are naturally porous, so they don’t require any special treatment.

As long as you provide them with enough oxygen, they’ll thrive. In fact, sponges are often used to purify wastewater.

Pros

• Easy to care for
• Good for both fresh and saltwater

Cons

• Expensive
• Hard to find

The Best Turtle Tank Filters

Now that we’ve gone over all the different types of filter media, let’s take a closer look at the top products on the market today.

PULACO Aquarium Internal Filter For 20 Gallon Tank

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First up on our list, we have selected the PULACO Aquarium Internal Filter, which is an excellent choice for anyone who has a large turtle tank.

This particular filter has the ability to accommodate up to 20 gallons of water!

Featuring plenty of conveniences, this awesome turtle tank will provide you with the ease of a super quick and simple installation process.

As soon as it arrives at your doorstep, all you will need to do is simply take it out of the box, follow the simple instructions, and attach it to the interior of the tank!

As soon as it is up and running, the PULACO Aquarium Internal Filter will begin utilizing its waterfall design to begin offering your tank’s ecosystem plenty of aeration and the ability to get rid of any water debris and impurities.

Plus, to allow for a quick and super-efficient performance, the PULACOs internal filter features a powerful pump system, allowing for the removal of waste from the aquarium while also providing ample amounts of oxygen to the entire tank!

With a lifespan of approximately five years, the PULACOs internal filter will ensure that your tank remains free of harmful toxins and bacteria for many years to come!

With a wide variety of colors available, the PULACO Aquarium Internal Filter is sure to complement any home decor style.

Plus, since it comes with a warranty, you know that you can always count on it being reliable and durable!

If you want to give your turtle tank ecosystem the best chance of thriving, then you absolutely must invest in the PULACO Aqua­rium Internal Filter.

TERRARIUM Aquarium Filter for 40-150 Gallon Tanks

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Next up, we have selected the TERRARIUM Aquarium Filter, which has the impressive ability to be able to accommodate tanks that range anywhere from 40 gallons to 150 gallons in size…yes, you read that correctly!

This amazing filter features a unique submersible wavemaker technology, which allows it to create a continuous flow of water throughout the entire tank.

With this feature, there is no need for frequent refills or manual cleaning, making it one of the most convenient filters around.

Additionally, the TERRARIUM Aquarium Filter is designed to offer a high level of filtration efficiency, ensuring that your tank remains toxin-free and clean for many years to come.

The TERRARIUM Aquari­um Filter also offers a lifetime warranty, so you are guaranteed that you will never have to worry about replacing it again.

With a sleek and modern appearance, the TERRARIUM aquarium Filter will look great in any home decor style.

So if you are looking for an incredible filter that will not only help keep your tank clean but will also make life easier, then you should definitely consider investing in the TERRARIUM Aqua­rium Filter.

Plus, besides being suitable for turtles, it is even suitable for fish, too!

Tetra Whisper Tank Filter With BioScrubber

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On a budget? No problem!

If you’re currently in the market for a medium-sized filter that will be able to accommodate anywhere from 20 to 40 gallons – then we think that you will love this particular filter from Tetra.

It even comes with an added BioScrubber!

The Whisper Tank Filter is made from BPA-free plastic, meaning that it won’t leach harmful toxins into the water.

Additionally, it is easy to install and remove, making it perfect for those who don’t have much time when it comes to keeping their aquariums running smoothly.

It is also important to note that the Whisper Tank Filter can be used with both freshwater and saltwater setups, so you don’t have to worry about whether it will work well with your specific setup.

The Whisper Tank is compatible with all types of aquariums, including:

• Saltwater tanks
• Freshwater tanks
• Turtle tanks
• Fish tanks
• Shrimp tanks

Plus, it is equipped with a built-in BioScrubber, which helps to ensure that your tank stays clean and free of unwanted bacteria.

In addition to this, this filter is also suitable for a variety of different aquatic life, including turtles.

All in all, a great investment for those who are on a budget, especially given the added BioScrubber that will help to assist in the purity of the water that your turtles are living in.

Fluval FK120S 3 Gallon Submersible Water Filter Kit

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Are you looking to make an investment in a premium water filter that is going to be suitable for use in your turtle tank? We think that you might like this option.

The Fluval Gallon Submersible Water Filter Kit is one of the best filters currently available to buy on the market.

Let’s take a closer look as to why:

Offering the finest aquatic filtration ability on the market currently, the Fluval Gallon Submersible Water Filter Kit is designed to provide optimal water quality for your aquatic pets.

This means that you will get crystal clear and healthy water every single day. Not only does this give your turtle(s) a better environment to live in, but it also keeps them healthier than ever before.

This filter kit includes everything that you need to get started right out of the box. It includes a pre-installed filter cartridge, a removable filter cover, a suction cup base, a pump, a power cord, and a user manual.

You’ll find that the Fluval Gallon Filter Kit is very compact and lightweight, so there shouldn’t be any issues transporting it around your home or office.

Plus, it has been constructed using high-quality materials, so you know that this product will last for years to come.

If you want to keep up with the latest trends in the world of aquariums, then you should definitely consider getting yourself the Fluval Gallon Water Filter Kit.

With its superior filtering abilities, it is sure to become one of your favorite purchases. It certainly has our seal of approval!

Zilla Aquatic Reptile Internal Filter

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Are you in the market for a tank filter designed specifically for reptiles, such as your turtle? If you answered yes, then look no further than the Zilla Aquatic Reptile Internal Filter.

In terms of design, this internal filter looks just like a regular aquarium filter. However, it is much more powerful than most other aquarium filters, due to its unique design.

Instead of having a plastic mesh screen at the top, this filter uses a special membrane instead. This membrane allows waste products to pass through while keeping larger particles trapped inside.

As a result, the water inside the tank remains cleaner than ever before.

When it comes to performance, the Zilla Aquatic Filter is one of the best tank filters on the market today. In fact, we are pretty confident that if you purchase this filter, your reptile will love it too.

Not only does this filter have a great design, but it also offers excellent cleaning capabilities.

To clean the filter, simply remove the lid from the tank, turn off the power supply, and let the filter do all the work. Then, when the filter is finished working, simply replace the lid back onto the tank.

If you’re looking for an affordable yet effective tank filter for your reptile, then the Zilla Aquatic Internal Filter is exactly what you’ve been searching for. We highly recommend checking it out today!

AquaClear 30 Gallon Tank Filtration System

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For those who are interested in buying a tank filter for their turtles, this is a perfect choice. The AquaClear 30-gallon tank filtration system provides exceptional filtering capabilities.

This tank filter features a dual-layer carbon media filter that removes both ammonia and nitrite.

The first layer of carbon helps reduce nitrate levels, which prevents algae growth and makes the water safer for your turtle. The second layer of carbon helps improve water clarity by removing suspended solids.

This tank filter can easily handle even large amounts of waste. Its advanced filtration technology ensures that your turtle’s water stays clear and safe.

With its easy installation process, this tank filter is perfect for beginners.

Simply attach the included mounting bracket to the side of your tank, connect the tubing to the filter, and plug everything into the wall outlet.

You’ll be ready to start enjoying crystal clear water in minutes.

With this tank filter, you get a lifetime warranty, free shipping, and free lifetime technical support.

AquaClear 50 Gallon Tank Filtration System With LED Lighting

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Are you looking to go all-out? If so, then you might like this awesome and innovative filter from Aqua Clear The AquaClear 5G tank filtration system with LED lighting delivers superior results because it has a two-layer carbon filter. It reduces nitrates and improves water quality.

It includes a high-quality light fixture that emits a soft glow over the entire tank.

This feature works well for nighttime viewing and is perfect for a home aquarium that houses a variety of different aquatic creatures, including fish, turtles, and more.

One thing that sets this tank apart from others is its unique design. It’s made of durable plastic and measures 22 inches long.

The base of the unit is equipped with wheels for easy movement around the room. It folds up for storage when not in use.

Another cool feature of this tank is its adjustable flow control valve. This allows you to adjust the amount of water flowing through the filter according to your needs.

You will enjoy using this tank filtration system because it comes with a one-year warranty and free lifetime technical support from AquaClear.

If all that wasn’t impressive enough, it should also be noted that this innovative filter also features a super durable construction which means that it will be able to withstand heavy use and abuse.

This tank filter is built to last and is backed by a full 1-year warranty – which means that it’s definitely worth the investment if you have the means.

Buying Guide

Now that you have taken the time to read through our roundup of the best filters for turtle tanks above, we’re hoping that you now have your sights set on the perfect one for your home aquarium tank.

But, before you go ahead and make that purchase, there are a few different things that you should take into account that will help you to make the best choice for you, your turtles, and your budget.

When buying a turtle tank filter, there are several things that you should consider.

Below, we are going to be breaking down each factor that you need to take into consideration when choosing a filter for your aquarium:

What Type Of Filter Do I Want?

First things first, you’re going to want to take a moment to think about what kind of filter you would like for your turtle tank.

As you will have seen from our product reviews above, there are a variety of different filters on the market, and you are going to need to decide which kind is going to be best suited to you, your budget as well as all of your preferences, too.

How Much Space Am I Willing To Give My Filter?

Here’s another important factor that you are going to need to take a moment to think about prior to selecting a filter.

Again, as you will have already seen from all the different filters that we have talked you through above, there are a variety of different turtle tank filters on the market…and they all tend to come in different shapes and sizes!

So, if you are planning on keeping turtles in an aquarium that has limited space, then it might not make sense to buy something that takes up a lot of room.

How Much Money Do I Have To Spend?

This is obviously a very important question, but unfortunately, it isn’t always easy to answer.

It depends entirely upon how much money you have available to spend on your new aquarium, as well as the size of your current aquarium.

If you currently only have a small aquarium, then you may be able to get away with spending less than $10 on a filter.

On the other hand, if you have a larger aquarium, then you may have to spend much more than that in order to accommodate the extra water and, in turn, a larger ecosystem.

How Easy Will It Be To Maintain?

Alongside your budget and how big you want your filter to be, you might also want to take a moment to consider how easy it is going to be to maintain.

This could include things such as cleaning out the filter regularly or replacing the filter media once it becomes clogged.

Obviously, if you can avoid having to clean out the filter regularly, then this will save you time and money.

However, if you are someone who likes to keep their aquariums spotless, then you might want to invest in a filter that requires little maintenance.

Which Filter Will Be The Most Effective?

What you choose to use as a filter for your turtle tank is going to depend largely on the environment within your aquarium.

Some people prefer using a sponge filter due to its simplicity, while others prefer using a power filter because they believe that it provides better filtration.

The truth is, however, that both types of filters can work effectively if used correctly. Ultimately, the choice is yours!

How Do You Clean A Tank Filter?

Alongside making sure that you are using the right filter for your turtle’s tank, you’re also going to need to make sure that your tank’s filter is working correctly – otherwise, your turtle tank’s ecosystem is going to suffer. Here we look at some ways to clean a tank filter.

1. Check That The Filter Is Working Correctly

You can check whether your filter is working correctly by looking at the water quality in the tank. If the water looks clear and contains little-to-no algae growth, then the filter is probably doing its job.

On the other hand, if the water appears cloudy and/or filled with algae, then the filter isn’t doing its job properly.

2. Change The Filter

If you notice that the filter isn’t functioning properly, you’ll need to change it. It’s important to note that changing the filter doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to replace the entire unit.

In fact, most filters come with a replacement cartridge. All you have to do is swap out the old one for the new one.

3. Use A Sponge To Remove Algae From The Filter

If you find that the filter has become covered in algae, you’ll need to use a sponge to help get rid of it.

Simply dip the sponge into vinegar and rub it against the filter. This will loosen up the algae and allow you to easily rinse it away.

4. Use Vinegar To Clean Your Filter

Vinegar is another great way to clean your filter. Just pour some vinegar onto a cloth and wipe down the filter. Once you’ve done this, simply rinse off the excess vinegar with fresh tap water.

5. Use Saltwater To Clean Your Filter

Saltwater is yet another good way to clean your filter because it helps to dissolve any leftover gunk that may be stuck to the filter.

Simply add some saltwater to a bucket and soak the filter until all the gunk is dissolved. Then, drain and rinse the filter as usual.

6. Use Vinegar + Salt Solution To Clean Your Filter

This method uses two different cleaners: vinegar and salt solution. Pour some vinegar into a container, add some salt, and let it sit overnight. Rinse the filter thoroughly with fresh water the next day.

Additionally, this method is similar to the previous one, but instead of adding salt to the vinegar, you’re going to add ice cubes.

Add some ice cubes to a jar or container, add some vinegar, and leave it overnight. The following day, rinse the filter thoroughly with fresh tap water.

Wrapping Up

There we have it! You’ve finally made it to the end of our turtle tank guide.

Now that you have taken the time to read through all of the above, we’re hoping that you’ve discovered the perfect filter for your turtle tank and learned some additional tips and tricks along the way.

Ultimately, the filter choice that you decide to use in your tank is going to be up to you.

Just remember, whichever filter that you choose, you are going to also need to make sure that there is a relevant aeration device, as this allows your turtles to get all the oxygen that they need.

As a side note, before you go ahead and click off this guide, why don’t you consider giving this page a bookmark?

If you do, you’ll always be able to come back and refresh your knowledge on turtle tank filters, as well as have the convenience of quick access to our list of turtle tank recommendations above.

Thank you for reading!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Size Should Your Turtle Tank Be?

When it comes to selecting the best turtle tank filter for your tank, you may find yourself wondering what size you should aim for.

After all, every turtle tank is different, and there isn’t really a set rule as to what size you should be aiming for.

However, there are some general guidelines that you can follow. Most people recommend keeping their tanks between 30-and 40 gallons (118-152 liters).

This is because smaller tanks don’t allow enough room for adequate circulation of the water.

Larger tanks tend to be less efficient at filtering out waste products, so you might end up needing to replace your filter more frequently.

How Often Should I Change My Turtle Tank Filter?

Now that you’ve got a good idea of what size your tank should be, you can move on to thinking about how often you should change out your filter.

As mentioned above, you will want to invest in a filter that provides both mechanical and biological filtration.

If you’re looking for the absolute best turtle tank filter, then you’ll probably want to consider getting a multi-media filter.

These filters offer both mechanical and biological filtering, meaning that you won’t have to worry about changing them out very often.

If you’re looking for something a little cheaper, then you can opt for a single-media filter instead.

These are great options if you only plan on keeping small fish or turtles in your tank. They provide excellent filtration but aren’t quite as powerful as multi-media filters.

If you’re still unsure whether, or not, you should buy a new filter, then you can always try out your old one. Just remember to remove the filter before you start cleaning your aquarium!

Where Can You Find The Best Turtle Tank Filters?

You now know everything you need to know about choosing the best turtle tank filter.

However, you also need to think about where you can find the best deals on these items. Fortunately, this shouldn’t be too difficult to figure out.

In fact, most online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and eBay sell high-quality filters at affordable prices. All you have to do is look around and see which retailer has the best selection of filters for your tank.

There’s no reason why you can’t save money by buying from an online retailer.

Not only will you get access to a wider range of filters than you would with a local store, but you’ll also avoid paying sales tax.

So, if you’re looking for the best turtle tank filter, you can rest assured that you won’t go wrong by shopping online.

How To Keep Turtles Healthy And Happy?

Turtles are fascinating creatures that many people love to keep as pets. While they are known for being slow-moving, cute, and peaceful, they can actually be quite dangerous when kept improperly.

It’s important that you take care of your pet properly so that you can ensure its long-term health. Here are some things that you must pay attention to while caring for your pet.

1. Make Sure Your Pet Has Enough Space

It may seem obvious, but it’s important to make sure that your pet has plenty of space to live comfortably.

A large enclosure is essential for any type of reptile, especially those that are active during the day. This includes turtles, tortoises, lizards, snakes, frogs, salamanders, and even iguanas.

Having enough room to roam around freely is important because it allows them to exercise their muscles without having to spend all of their time sitting down.

2. Provide Proper Lighting

Reptiles require lots of light, particularly during the daytime. This means that you should use natural lighting whenever possible. Artificial lights can cause problems such as stress, poor appetite, and general lethargy.

When using artificial lighting, you should never leave it on continuously. Instead, you should turn it off after each feeding and let the animal sleep through the night.

3. Feed Them Regularly

As mentioned above, reptiles require regular food intake. This applies to both wild-caught animals and captive-bred pets.

Reptiles are omnivores, meaning that they eat both plants and meat. Therefore, you should feed them a diet composed primarily of vegetables.

You can supplement this with small amounts of fish or other protein sources.

4. Clean Their Enclosure Regularly

Just like humans, reptiles shed skin cells throughout the year. This is normal and doesn’t necessarily mean that your pet needs to be cleaned.

However, you should clean the enclosure once every month or two in order to remove dead skin cells and prevent disease.

This should include cleaning the substrate, along with the water bowl and aquarium itself. If you notice signs of mold growth, then you should contact your veterinarian immediately.

5. Give Them Water On Demand

Just like us, reptiles don’t always want to drink water. They often prefer to drink when needed. As such, you should provide them with fresh drinking water whenever they ask for it.

In addition, you should give them access to a larger container of water at all times. This way, they have something to drink when they need to, rather than waiting until they’re thirsty.

6. Monitor Their Health

Finally, you should monitor your pet’s overall health regularly. This includes checking their temperature, weight, and activity level.

Any changes in these areas could indicate an underlying problem. For example, if your turtle isn’t eating well, then you should consult your vet about what might be causing this.

7. Keep Them Safe From Predators

While most reptiles are relatively safe from predators, there are still risks involved. As such, you shouldn’t allow your pet to wander outside their enclosure.

Even if you do, you should place them inside a protective cage so that they aren’t exposed to potential dangers.

Why Do Turtle Tanks Need Filters?

Turtles can be very difficult to keep alive. This is due to the fact that they are cold-blooded creatures that rely on external heat to regulate their body temperatures. This makes them susceptible to many diseases and parasites.

These can range from simple infections to more serious conditions such as salmonella poisoning.

In order to protect your turtles against these issues, you’ll need to install a filter system.

A filter will help to keep harmful bacteria out of the tank, while also providing oxygen to the animals. It will also reduce the amount of ammonia and nitrite present in the tank.

Before you begin installing your filter system, you’ll first need to choose which type of filter you’d like to use.

There are several different types available today, including gravity filters, air pumps, and power filters. Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Gravity Filters

Gravity filters work by using a series of pipes to collect debris and waste from the water. Once the debris is collected, it flows through a screen where it falls into a collection area.

Gravity filters are usually made of plastic and metal. They require minimal maintenance and are easy to operate. However, they may not be effective at filtering large particles.

Air Pumps

Air pumps work similarly to gravity filters. Instead of relying on gravity alone, however, they utilize an air pump to force the water through a mesh screen.

This allows the water to flow freely but prevents large objects from entering the tank. Because they require less maintenance than other systems, they are ideal for smaller tanks.

Power Filters

Power filters are similar to gravity filters. They use a series of tubes to remove waste and debris from the water.

Unlike gravity filters, though, power filters use a motor to create the pressure necessary to push the water through the screen. This means that they don’t have to depend on gravity alone.

They’re also able to filter larger particles than gravity filters.

Once you’ve chosen your filter, you’ll need to make sure that it fits correctly.

You’ll want to ensure that the intake pipe is placed near the top of the tank. This will prevent any sediment or debris from clogging the filter.

If possible, you should also avoid placing the intake pipe directly above the aquarium’s heater. Doing this could cause the heater to become damaged.

Once you’ve installed your filter, you’ll now need to decide where you plan to place your water source.

Most people prefer to place it below the intake tube so that there is no chance of contamination. Some people even recommend placing it inside the tank itself.