Review on 🐠 OASE Filtosmart Thermo Indoor Aquatics by Jessica Thomas

I have a Filtosmart 200 on my 29 gallon fresh water tank. This filter differs in design from most canister filters. This is not a traditional cake layout. I suggest you read the instructions before doing anything. If you buy one with a heater you will find that the heater reduces the amount of biomedia that can be put into the filter. To compensate, I chose Seachem Bio Matrix. Because of Matrix's large surface area, you don't need to use much. Using the media bags, I placed 2 x 1 cups each (more than double the number the Matrix instructs) into the biomedia compartment of the filter on either side of the heater. The filling is done by filling the filter through the opening of the heater. Don't worry, the heater can be easily removed. Remember to use a container or dechlorinated water to fill the filter. The primer button was missing, but then I figured I wouldn't have to worry about wear and tear. I just transplanted fish and plants from my 50 gallon to 29 gallon. Filtrosmart cleans the aquarium in a few hours. The heater has a calibration setting, which is nice. The disadvantage of having a heater in the filter is that you cannot turn off the filter without first turning off the heater to allow it to cool. Usually takes about 20 minutes. The same applies if you run the filter again. I always give the filters a 24 hour window when I first run them to release air bubbles. At first I could hear the filter, but now it's very quiet. I have it in my bedroom and I don't like it when I'm sleeping. Tip: I always put some silicone on each filter gasket to prevent leakage and prolong the life of the gasket. This filter has 3 compartments separated by 2 removable plastic baffles. This allows you to customize it to your liking. It comes with a coarse sponge, a finer sponge to hold the motor screen, 2 packs of ceramic noodles and 2 packs of charcoal. I have plants in my aquariums so I don't use charcoal. Don't bother with their bio media. Also, the instructions say it needs to be poured around the heater. I think bags are easier to clean. Good 3 year guarantee.