Eheim, Oase and Fluval - My thoughts on the 'Big 3'. 

Eheim Pro 4+ 600 video: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-b-sPyqBOTcA.html Eheim Pro 5e 600T video: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-ofGVnSf5MNk.html Oase Biomaster 850 video: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-ujIQ9Kb1fPo.html Biohome filter media: www.filterpro.co.uk Family water filter: filterpro.co.uk/water-filters-12-c.asp Nothing and nobody (including myself) is perfect but for Eheim, Fluval and Oase canister filters they have to be damn close since they are the best known and most highly respected. This video is my thoughts on those companies and as mentioned in his video I really hope Eheim can pull back some of their reputation and I hope it's not too late. The Eheim Pro 4 and Pro 5 filters I have been less than impressed with could have been explained and forgiven for some less-than-perfect construction issues if the filters were priced to compete with low to mid price range competitors but the are by far the most expensive - if they make another range of filters how many people will have already switched to their competitors? As Eheim make much better filter media than both Fluval and Oase it's unbelievable that they do not supply the Substrat Pro with their premium range filters - it is a genuinely good media so why not include it with the filters? That seems like a terrible business decision as it opens the door for customers to source media from other (rival) manufacturers and the vast majority of people will stick with the factory set up for their filters and go back to the manufacturer for replacement foams and media if they come ready set up at the time of purchase. Unlike many other channels I don't do sponsorship / paid adverts / payment for reviews so what I say when I take a filter apart for the first time is how it is - not what any company wants me to say. I've seen it said in many comments on other people's videos that because I don't use my channel as a source of income that I must have a problem with channel owners who do but nothing is further from the truth - I run the channel my way without paid sponsorship / paid adverts etc. because I have to stay impartial for my own code but I can appreciate why others would place a cost on each sponsored video they make since it takes time to shoot and edit a video and not many people would want to do that for free. With the way the world is now I can appreciate even more why anyone would use a channel to generate income since the economy of the world is becoming corrupted to strip everyone of wealth - If you have a good channel and can earn from it then ride that rocket as long as you can. To the people making money from paid ads, sponsorship etc. the way I run my channel may seem strange but it works for me since the energy I give out is returned other ways (which are more important to me than 'money') and I am not beholding to any company or individual. If you've enjoyed this video please check out the playlists on my channel for hundreds more - on a variety of subjects. Feel free to share or link any of my videos on facebook, twitter, forums etc. for the benefit of anyone you think may also enjoy watching. See you next time. Pondguru

I think you're an influencer, and an authentic one at that. Thank you for your insights mate! :)

Namesake-Your videos are some of the few I can go back to and rewatch without feeling like I'm laboring. As always, well done!

This is the first of your videos I’ve watched, came up whilst trying to find difference between biomaster and filtosmart. After your video I’ve gone a bought a biomaster. Your ability to not hold a grudge and let truth prevail is.. outstanding! Thank you for the help, one very clean turtle tank coming up!

Very informative video, I'm currently considering these brands for my first canister filter so very well-timed. Have previously ordered media from Richard and he's always been very helpful.

I have watched video about your Oase canister filter, and went and bought one for my RES. I'm very satisfied with this filter. Keep up the good work. Cheers.

I learn so much from the videos you post, although I have had only one of the three, I am starting to look at the Hydor 600, I love the look and I have not heard of any negative, thank you for what you do, much love and respect.

I've always look for your videos and I forward your video on the right order to set up the different foams. Thanks Richard and stay safe 🙏 👍

You are definitely an influencer , having bought my first bio home from you a few years ago after binge watching your videos.Excellent product using for a few years now. Cheers from South Africa.

Don’t change brother! I genuinely respect your opinion and always listen to what you have to say before buying filters.

Thank you for making your videos. I have two filters pimped, and have never had any problems. When it comes to everything else, block out the haters and do your thing. Several kindred spirits are out there. Always be ready

Thank you for being so generous thoughtful and so true. The world needs more people like you! 👍👏

Awesome video as always mate thanks so much for all your hard work

Like very often: Your text below your video mostly is almost more interesting as the clip itself :-) Nevertheless, I love all of your aquarium related videos for your straight way to to tell and show the truth. Also in my FB groups, when it comes to filters, I always and immediatly refer to your channel and the particular pimps. I'm convinced by myself and learned to know you as a very helpful, friendly and integer person. Keep up working this way and looking forward to many more of your great videos! Cheers, Dieter

I’m staggered that some people have been so negative and that you have needed to mention that. Your reviews and channel is one of my go-to’s, as I know I can always trust what you say. Anyone who recommends a product that is cheaper and gives them a lesser margin at retail, than a more expensive product, has to be being honest. I particularly like your methodology on how to set up a filter. It makes great sense to me and the results speak for themselves. I have had various filters over the years and I do admit that I did like my older version Eheim thermofilters. I have not been active in the hobby for a few years as I needed to take time out to care for my mother who was terminally ill and has sadly now passed, but I’m hoping to set up a tank again very soon and I’m definitely considering trying the Oase brand filters, with the media set up how Richard suggests. Richard, keep up the great work, you are definitely an influencer. But you are one step beyond that because you are an influencer with integrity. People can see that when I have seen a few of your videos and it makes all the difference.

You were the first person i started watching on filtration 5 years ago and still continue to listen to.

Been running an Eheim 2217 (now called classic 600 I think) continuously since the late 90's and it is still going strong, a truly fantastic filter. Bought a pro3 to upgrade to when they came out, not a patch on the original 2217, and other than for occasional emergency use the pro 3 has sat in the shed for the last 8 years. Never tried any other filter as the 2217 is perfect.

You served the community more then ever by upgrading and your vision about them 🏆

For having dealt directly with Richard, I can truely say that if he was someone that is in only for the money, I never would have gotten my Biohome simply due to the shipper giving him so much trouble to ship it where I live. Yet he spent time and energy to make sure I get it. He is definitely a passionate and like he said, when he give his opinion it comes from his guts and not from his wallet. Keep up the good work, you are the reference in what you do!

I always appreciate the depth of your reviews and your independent opinions. I couldn’t agree more on any of your points. There was a time that Eheim was all I would buy, but the quality has dropped off the cliff. Keep it up and thanks for the honest reviews!

I love your integrity, honesty and your generosity in sharing your knowledge. You really ought to consider making a pitch to Dragon's Den to see if that could unlock the potential that I'm sure exists in the product ideas that you have.

I love your videos!! You are so real, and I have learned so much from you! Thanks a million!

Just like to say thank you for going through the stress to give such great knowledge to us all 👍

Top man with a honest mind and tact can't ever knock a man for that just ain't right when Big companies get in their feelings cause you thought outside of their box for people to get their ultimate monies out of the filters. Keep up the great work and vibes mate 💙

Richard you are an honest influencer. I'm a Eheim Ecco Pro 300 convert following issues I had with fluval. So much so that I'm now running 2. One solely as a mechanical, the other biological and it's working well.

Thank you for your advice. I wanted eheim 4 at first, then the sales guy at my local shop wanted me to buy a fluval right off and then I researched and considered oase. After your reviews and insight I chose Oase Biomaster 350 and am looking forward to set it up.

Love the vids, keep up the good work 👍

We watched your pre filter booster canister video and bought one for our indoor tank, it's brilliant and thanks for recommending 👍👍

Such a great video!!! And all truthful🙏🏻 I personally only use Fluval filters in my Aquariums. Reason why? Simple! They just work! I have FX6’s 407’s, 307’s on various tanks and they do a great job. Especially the 07 line! Great Flow, ease of use, very reliable, and don’t break the bank. I’m doing a 120 gallon discus tank right now and originally I was thinking of doing an Eheim, or Oase Biomaster, and all my friends in the aquarium hobby have simply said do yourself a favor and keep using what’s worked all these years. So I went with 2 Fluval 407’s and couldn’t be happier. Good flow that I can control, plenty of media space, and extremely quite….what more can i ask for 🤷🏻‍♂️ Keep the videos coming….and yes you are an influencer🙌🏼

I just received your bio home marine it’s the best media I try I been keeping fresh and saltwater fish for about 22 years but bio home is the best media for my aquariums how I know I have it now on my tanks. Great product PondGurru! Keep up the great work. From Texas USA. God blessed.

Always straight to the point and love your honesty! I’m registered disabled so filter maintainence is an issue and Richard’s advice on the 850 Biomaster was a game changer for me

Quite possibly the best of all of his videos

You made a life of a difference for me and for my fish in the long term❤

Excellent honest video!!

Some people can’t handle the truth. I can’t speak for everyone but at least I know I can trust you and your opinion. You saved me from making a huge mistake with you Eheim Pro video. I was just getting ready to buy one. Thank You for that. You should seriously get hooked up with a manufacturer and design and build the perfect filter. We all know you could do it.

You are absolutely brilliant the way you are and never ever change yourself Admired you and your channel 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

Great video, I have a ehiem 3pro xxl and a bio master 850 that review of the ehiem 5e was spot on I was hoping for some good things but it seems it’s not as good as the 3e. Love the information in your videos and the honest reviews 👍

Great video, sir. Let me edit my comment on your last video... "Richard, why don't you just make me my own personal custom filter and pimp it out for me and ship it to me in the US!" HA!. Keep up the good work, sir. My faith in humanity is restored by your integrity. Also... I too 'have a fondness for' 'significant' 'hindquarters' and 'am personally' 'incapable of' 'terminological inexactitudes'.

Great video as usual! As you say those filters are the best on the market. Concerning Eheim pro 5, they look good good but the price!!! I am as surprised as you that Eheim don't put much effort the lead the market of canister filters.. I use Eheim and Oase filters but I am not entirely satisfied. So I decided to design and build my own filter. I am looking forward for yours sketches and compare designs. CHeers

Great video Richard

Thanks man! I really appreciate your opinion. By incident I recognize pretty much the same down points for Eheim canisters. The 4 series is way louder than the third. Absolute no go. What I miss in this range is jbl canister filters. They are comparable to Eheim and Oase but are less pricy. Forgot: eheim was west german and JBL the East German company. About 60 years old.

I like your honesty, So true with these big boys, I love your product, all my tank are running eheim canister with your biohomes and the tank runs lovely. The best filter media I have owned. and for 40 years running tanks I have had a lot of media. I even recently bought your bio orb upgrate kit and the water is crystal clear. I recommend your stuff to all my friends who have a tank.

The Truth is always the best thing. The concepts you present are spot on. The success I have with both fresh and saltwater are due in large part to your filtration methodology

👍Thank you for standing your ground.

I think your honest opinion is exactly what makes you a proper influencer!

I had a Eheim Pro4 swapped it for a Sicce Whale 500. Just a simple cheap filter, very well constructed and does the job. Best canister I've ever had 😀👍.

Really honest statements I had Fluval was ok but needed more power so I thought I would try Ehiem Pro 4 have had some of the problems you mentioned in the past with the trays I don’t have the money yet but I will try Oase one day. Your videos are very good where else would you see so many different filters in place all taken apart and examined with a honest opinion. I got my Ehiem just before I saw your review on it, to late for me but I would tell anyone looking for a filter to check out your videos first.

Good job. Best realistic reviews.

Thanks a lot for your usual efforts and for informatif vedios.

Good Morning from Hong Kong. Thanks for the review and appreciate the way of coming from heart rather coming from money. Just a quick question, I am going to set up a 120*50*50 planted tank. Will Oase 600 + Fluval 307 provide enough flow and bio material space for this tank? (According to material placement suggestion in your related video) TQTQ!

Fun video and very informative, plus I agree on these three companies.

I have been seriously in the hobby since 2006 but only got to know how to properly filter by yr vdos .... keep it up ...

Love your video pal I've learnt so much from you

If the major canister filter manufacturers took your design, I wonder how much different their results would be after they have each put their own stamp on them. Great video as always.

Thank god a decent human who put product before money

How good are the biomasters for fish who like to generate a fair bit of muck. My Fluval 306 on 200l tanks needs the prefilters cleaning every 2/3 weeks. Thinking of getting a 407 or Biomaster. The latter seems easier to clean.

Hello, I love your informational videos. Keep up the great work. I do have a question and would like to get your thoughts. Is there any brand of canister filter, who states accurate and "actual" GPH specifications of their filters? The reason I ask this, is because I have experienced an issue with Fluval and in my research to find a resolution, it appears that all manufactures of canister filters are doing the same thing. That is over-rating or over-spec the performance of their canister filters. I have had a eastern painted turtle in a 75 gallon aquarium, (with only 40 gallons of water) for 20 years. My very first canister was the Marineland Magnum 350. I eventually replaced it with a Rena XL which I had for 15 years, until the motor housing got a large crack, and began to leak. So, I replaced the Rena with a Fluval 407. As soon I began using the Fluval 407, my water soon became cloudy. It appeared like Biological bloom. Yes, I used all of the bio media from the Rena in the new Fluval. I also added bio additive to the water and still the water has become cloudy and will not clear. Over the past FIVE (5) MONTHS I have tried everything to resolve this issue and have talked to several aquarium professionals. During my research to find a resolution for this problem, I found articles and videos on flow (GPH) test on various canister filters, which has shown that many canister filter manufactures severely over-spec their canister filters performance. So I decided to check the Fluval 407 that I had purchased, to see the actual GPH that I'm getting with this filter on my aquarium. First I installed new mechanical foam filters, rinsed the bio media and cleaned the hoses. Then after purging all the air from the filter, I removed the diverter from the outlet hose in the tank and performed a flow test three (3) times. Then I removed all of the foam sponges, bio media and re-installed the motor head to perform the same flow test with NO filters, media or baskets. Just an empty canister and the pump head and performed the same flow test three (3) times. Here are my test results: Flow test with media - 134.64 GPH. Flow test WITHOUT media - 152.58 GPH. According the manufactures specifications, the pump output has a max of 383GPH. The max output of the canister filter WITH MEDIA is 245GPH. I understand there are many factors that will effect flow, like hose routing, pump distance to the water and distance from the top of the water to the rim of the tank. My set up matches Fluval's recommended set-up and configuration and yet I still had very low numbers. So my final test was to raise the canister filter closer to the top of the water in the tank, creating less resistance against the filter pump motor. My final test indicated only a 10 GPH improvement over the first test I have been in contact with Fluval and they insist there is nothing wrong with the filter and that it is working correctly. There only suggestion is to install a UVC Clarifier in line with the pump. And Yes, I have checked the water condition. All the levels are excellent, nitrate, nitrite, ammonia, etc... In the twenty years I have owned this aquarium with this one 6" eastern painted turtle, I have never had a cloudy water issue, until I installed the Fluval 407. I have looked at other brands or models of canister filters to install in place of the 407, but many have a lot of bad reviews with leaks and failures, are too small or too large or are difficult to find replacement filter for. Your thoughts?

Hi, could i ask you in your opinion what is the best external filter for a marine tank 260 litre, the canister i am running is abit slow, its done its job but i want something better, i really liked the look of the fluval fx4, but then i saw the sunsun HW 5000, so i am abit stuck on which to get, what would you get knowing your knowledge of the canister filters? Thank you so much if you get to answer 😊

Very impressed with OASE new HOB filter. I know you don't do HOB's but they're high quality and you can get the baskets so you can "pimp" them. Cheers.

tell the story more often. with 140k subs, your a influencer and with enough ppl, you will force them to make the changes. strength in numbers!

Hello thanks for the good video. As for Oase or any other canister filter, am I right to say one with internal heater is much more energy efficient Vs a heater placed inside a big tank? So I'm thinking smaller vol to heat up albeit continuously changing Vs a big Vol in a tank.

hi @pondguru, may I ask for advise, is it fine to use eheim pro 3 1200xm for 2 feet tank?

Your channel is so good man 👍👍

What do you think about putting a good prefilter on an eheim classic and filling it with super biogravel?

I've been using an Oase 600 on my 125gallon, it's been great except the heater takes too long to reach the 79 degrees that I want. The flow is low for a 125, but I plan to bore out the holes in the prefilter tube and get coarser filters for it (it came with fine sponges). I'm changing to an oase 850 soon and moving the 600 to a 60gallon tallboy tank. I like the integrated heater inside the canister, but it does take a slight bit longer to stabilize after water changes than a normal 'in tank' heater.

Another boss video Richard lad, stick to ye guns and keep telling it like it is. I got some excellent tips from you in the past. Keep goin 👍

Great video! Wondering if it is possible to just build your own filter out of acrylic and choose your own media. Is that a realistic possibility or not worth the hassle?

Has Oase fixed the 850 problem sucking in air from where ever it comes from? I called them and they couldn't figure it out either even after sending me some parts.

Very very nice conversation !!! Xavier from France

Hi, i am looking for a QUITE external filter for my 180 cm x 50 cm x 30 cm aquarium. Which filter would you recomend? Thanx

You're a pretty good influencer🤫 I bought Biohome Ultimate from you as a result of watching your channel 😁

I don't know how anyone can have a problem with this guy he is ace and really really genuine

I enjoyed your honesty in this video, and I totally agree R&D and patents are very expensive even for an established company

I remember you were verry impressed with the aquael turbomax series also, they are not such a big name, but I think they can compete?

@Richard, I've been away from the hobby for 10 years after a 120 gallon tank failed and completely flooded my basement. I swore I would never have an aquarium again back then. The youtube gods put one of your videos in my feed and got me very excited about starting up again. Just wanted to thank you for your great advice and honesty. Keep up the great work 👍 and hello from Canada!

Thank you for your advice on the Eheim professional 5e ,I totally agree, it is a waste of money, but can you recommend what is the best canister filter as I have been out of fish keeping for a long time,l am planning to get a 5 foot fish tank

Great video, in my experience all the new eheim have problems but the classic still good but overpriced so don’t touch them now just got one huge tank presently with 3 fx6 which I love however they are a real pain tio maintain albeit this is only a handful of times a year would love the output and small height of the fx6 with the ease of the oase of changing the pre filter sponges thanks again for these videos

You're absulutely right about how some of this businesses are just now relying on name/marketing/maximum profitability and gave up on just making good quality and effective products. I've had the opportunity to have all 3 of the brands you've mentioned and by far I really like the Fluval for reliablity, price point and effectiveness. Oase do make a beast of a canister filter as far a build quality and innovative design, it is not perfect but really good. I like Eheim but for the price and so-so later design, it's seems like it's more of a gimmicky and are heavily relying on past reputation, but like their heaters-the older design (round ones-ehem!) are just more reliable, simple but functional and effective (adding trays on the 2217 would have been nice like the classic 2215). For me, Fluval is the product I'm personally happy with as a hobbyist, great design, reliable/functional, build quality/material is not much behind Oase's, but the price more than makes up for it. Good luck getting an intellectual property rights/patent respected in the country you mentioned as it does not exist. It's a shame really and not right in any way you look at it, but it is what it is and no one dares even mentioning without serious unjustified retaliation.

Amazing Fluval 207 Panda cory nursery......really chuffed with this filter, keeps my Jewel 125 Crystal clear with biohome ultimate. Just did my monthly filter mainenance, lifted the head off the unit and found a baby panda cory swimming in the sponge compartment. Amazed, carried on cleaning and found 2 more babies, now a pro dad to 9 Panda corys.

Awesome vid mate ! I have to tell you that making a review without real profit is my way to take this awesome hobby few steps forward in israel 😅 Btw - I know what you are going through.. Due to the fact of facing those kind of fitback... Unfortunately, I've stopped recommending things... Every time someone asks "do you recommend?" My answer is "no! I am just sharing my experience about x,y,z... From there it's your decision to take it or leave it 😏" What I am trying to say?... KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK MATE YOU ARE AWESOME! - thanks to your reviews I've learned a lot and shared your experience with my tests (on few things) with hobby mates in our country 🤘 FYI - YOU HAVE MASSIVE SUPPORT FROM ISRAEL cheers mate 🍻

Never tried Eheim. Oase BioMaster (leaks and bubbles) has issues that made me return to Amazon and buy a Fluval 307. I so wanted the Oase to work out. The in canister heater and the pre-filter was so promising.

Hi can i ask, can a male full grown crowntailfish be with a kid female halfmoon (i mean can they be put on the same aquarium?)

I really appreciate your honesty. Being I can't lift a full canister filter, ok I am very old. I use 2 -295 gph power heads, going to 2- 4 liter box on top of my aquarium,I added 3 to 4 spouts in each box for my 50g goldfish tank with 3 fish. Made a PVC spray bar in one. Use a hose connector on the inside of the box top so the hose can't pull out. Talk about cheap. So so easy to remove soiled floss. So so inexpensive.Canister filters are too heavy and cost too much. You can do better-

Hi can you give me a recommendation for moderately stocked Goldfish aquarium 80 gal ( filtration) I am considering Bio master 850 , Eheim 1500xl . would I need two ? thank you . Terri

I understand the costs of creating your own filter line would be incredible. But I for one would definitely buy one. What about some type of kit to convert an already existing watertight container like a 5 gallon bucket with a screw top provide all the components and instructions to make your own I think that suits your style a little bit better anyway just an idea. Food for thought maybe anyway good luck mate and keep up the good work👍

Hello Sir ! Can you help me choose from Eheim pro 4+ vs Eheim classic 600, my budget is $200-250 if anything else you want to suggest for my 600LT pond

Help! I have slider turtle and for 4 years we have top mesh lid. But wanted to know if the air stone in water, can I have a total closed off lid so water doesn't evaporate or smell??? Or does he need some air from the top?

Do you think flow rate is important? I’m using a aqua one the flow is poor but I don’t really want to buy a fx4

You did build a fantastic filtration system that you had under your house the shower filter that you have setting on your desk the bio media that you can put into anything and get a full nitrogen cycle and all the DIY

External modular filters would be the ultimate. Similar to Lifegard Aquatics back in the day, but pragmatic and with ease of maintenance in mind.

I love the way you are, is same's to me. Thank you.

I’ll want to ask and put you on the spot a bit, would you opt for oase or aquael canister filter when setting up your tank?

Eheim classic 350 filter good for 120 liter aquarium??

What ppi foam would you put in oase biomaster pre filter to improve flow?

You should work with one of the major brands eg. Seachem on developing your filter (since they don't have a canister filter). You could co-share the patent or even give them the patent if you're not comfortable with coming up with the large upfront cost and work out a deal to get a small cut of the profits and let them manufacture it under their brand name. Take your time and see how you can work something out instead of giving out your designs for free. Make sure you straighten out the legal part of things in case they blindside you and cut you out of the deal.

Great video. Love how the monologue went from a reflection on aquarium filter design, to "I like big butts and I cannot lie" 🤣

Hello. I would really appreciate a video commenting on the best way to clean and maintain my canister filter. All I do is take it and rinse everything off with really hot water and I've come to realize upon research that I am very ignorant when it comes to maintaining my filter. To give you a rough idea I have a Cumberland turtle a Peco and 3 goldfish in a 50 gallon tank filled to the brim with a basking station for the turtle on top. And I would like some help on understanding the media and how to keep it clean yet not destroy my bacteria and help maintain algae growth. If you already have one or know of a such video I would really appreciate a link

Gutted I was hoping you was going to say you've got a filter in production

i ended up here as i was looking at buying the oase biomaster, you talked me out of it in the 1st 10 minutes. thank you

The Oase bio 850 has a similar exterior construction as the Eheim in the last vid and does not maximise possible space , but agree they are better than Fluval and Eheim , my fluval filters need gaskets changed more regular and Ehiem are to expensive for the materials used , great informative update, maybe offer your design to the brand leaders for a % of any profit 8fthey choose to use them before showing us for free