So I had a little mix up brain was not rocking properly. Fluval does not equal seachem. I apologize for the confusion...... but you already know that soooooooo ha! Enjoy! #brainfart
One thing I love that I've never seen anyone remark on: There are two oval shaped extrusions on the bottom of the lid. These match the oval shapedd holes in the bottom of the media basket. Take the lid off, turn upside down, then lift your media basket out and snap it into the lid. Now you habe a nice little carrying tray to take your media to the sink without dripping all over your floor!
Within 6 months of having 2 of these I had to modify both. Covered over flow holes. Made the holes in bottom of basket bigger. Made the main tube a full tube instead of half tube. Put media balls in bottom of basket so it does not clog.
Seachem is a great company I lost the leveler to my 110 and called them to see where I could purchase it and they sent me one for free, which most companies wouldn’t have done.
Good Video!!!! I was talking with a Mechanical Engineer friend of mine and he told me those flaws for him, were actually part of the design. The roundish shape of the housing allows for better water flow and distribution without producing micro bibling spaces within the housing, and the outside intake maybe was like that to be able to produce the extreme water flow control other filters don't have. I myself have an old Aqua Clear 500 for more than 25 years now, in a 125 gal tank and still works very good, but the Sea Chem 75 I got about a year ago for the same tank is as good or better that the AC-500. But that is my opinion based in just one unit each of these filters. Anyway, they are very good products. One of the strong advantages the Sea Chem has is the inside-water/tank pump. That system is way better than the one on the AC-500. Is quieter, pushes the water instead of pulling it, and always primes itself when you have power failures. I see the Sea Chem as a very big improvement over the AC-500, that is itself an excellent and reliable filter. That is my humble opinion
Are you using just the media Seachem provided with the filter? I have a 50 gallon freshwater community tank (tetras, zebras, gouramies) about 20 fish with a moderate amount of live plants. Would you recommend the Tidal 55 or would you go with the 75?
I've had my Aquaclear 500 for 26 years and never had to replace any parts....it's still going strong. I am interested the Tidal 110 for a 40 gallon reef tank and like the flow control.
@@Jp-gc6bh I've been using the aquaclear 500 on the 40 gallon reef tank. It's working very well. I do feel I should have a wet/dry system, they take up space though.
The rounded design allows a better water flow to follow out. If they were to make it square like you want the water would hit the square wall to a dead stop then deflect out.
I don’t understand your cons toward this filter. Your big issue is the noise of the impeller. Well you have to have the water level higher. Any submersible pump has to be submerged. You’re getting impeller noise because of low water level, that’s not a product design flaw, that’s user error lol.
What's your opinion of the bypass? I've got a 75 and as you know, there's that big rectangular window at the front of the basket. A decent amount of tank water flows through that window and back into the tank, unfiltered. Also, even at 50% flow, water flows over the back of the basket and flows back into the tank, unfiltered. You think there's a design rationale for this? I've got 3 pads (two coarse, one medium, and matrix/rings filled up to half-way up that "bypass window". I'm thinking of taping off that window. Thanks.
The design rational is that water needs to flow for optimal biological filtration. I have two of the seachem course pads (like the one it came with) and the supplied bio-media on my 75 and have very little bypass as long as it's routinely rinsed. Of course, what you call bypass is actually a designed flow for the filter. Using finer pads or material increases the bypass... The water has to have someplace to flow. I've always ditched the pads on my hob filters and used filter floss material and sponges, with lots of bypass as it gets clogged. At least the Tidal is designed for this, allowing even flow as to eliminate dead spots. The proof is in the water quality. Even with bypass, how are your testing levels? Ammonia? Nitrite? Tbh, I knew that with this design there would be bypass, but I find that the filter works well regardless. I actually bought it more for the skimmer as I have a planted tank with cichlids and the bits of torn leaves floating about are annoying. It picks them right up!
@Drinking Water the Tidal 75 is enough for your tank as long as the cichlids are small. 5 cichlids over 4-5" would be a lot for that filter to handle. I actually swapped my seachem 75 out for a Marineland Penguin Pro. The Seachem stopped working suddenly after I turned it off. It was as if the motor had died. I really liked the Seachem 75 but it's short life span was an issue. I must say that it outlasted the Aquaclear I bought before it. The AC lasted only 4 months before it died. They just don't make things to last anymore.
I currently have 11 Aquaclear filters and I find that they can break very easily. The plastic case simply isn't very strong and can crack if put under a little pressure. Although I don't have a seachem hob, the tidal 110 does look like it's made of stronger plastic and it probably doesn't break very easily. Plus the tidal has a skimmer which the AC does not have and I like the media baskets better then the AC. I gotta get one of these guys. Thanx for the update Jay!!
Just curious, how are they breaking? I've had about a dozen running for the past 10 years, and while I don't think they are perfect for every application, I've only ever had one case break and that was my fault. Not doubting you, just trying to figure it out. Are you taking them off of the tank a lot?
Ran 2 110s for six months the hidden sludge that's builds up by the motor is really heavy and will effect low water level performance, your limited in media quantity due to the bypassing issue this tidal filter quickly developed. Yes you can lower the flow but then ask why? The aqaclear design performs better but the noise and motor life is an issue. So basically we need a third filter on the market to employ the tidal filter motor set up on a aqaclear body. Plus I would like a aquaclaer 150 or 175. Make it so Jay !!
Yes tidal bypass is a big issue . And I agree AC is very freaking noisy. If aqua clear can put their motor in the water like the tidal , we would have the best filter.
What's up Jay!!! Man I love my tidal 110's so much that I ordered 2 more and will have them up running this weekend. I refer them over the ac110. With the ac110/50 it was a crap shoot every time I re-plugged them back up. They were a constant pita. Very happy with the tidal 110's and thanks for the update video.
Hi Jay, I really like it. I’m using a 110 on my Tang tank, and it’s as quiet as a church mouse. The basket holds loads of extra Matrix in a second bag of it and I’m also running a second manufacturer coarse sponge. 👍
I’ve notice on mine, when I turn down the water flow it doesn’t slow down like yours. Was your intake knob set to the closed position that’s why the water was able to slow down ?
I love how they put that removable media basket in there. One of my biggest pet peeves about HOB filters is having to remove the entire filter from the back of the tank to clean it out
I agree. With this design the bypass keeps crud from building up on the bottom under the basket and it's nice to just take it all out in one go and pop it right back in after cleaning.
Your video and the explanation you give are great. I have seen other that put this hob filter as if it was the cornerstone for filtration; I know it is ok but I consider that there are a lot of options out there.
Great vid, from what I see it's a decent filter and as you said one worth giving it a shot. I don't have one, but doing research on them I don't see the basket rising up when the filter gets mucked up and the precision adjustment for the flow control helps to not waste food and speed up the filter clogging up. At the price point it's worth giving it a look. Thanks for sharing the vid.
I like mine... I have one as a secondary filter. I modified it and added three different grades of coarse,medium and fine sponges. I also added ChemiPure to it.
For me, everything is fine except I would like to see an option to turn off the skimmer completely. I've switched to the Seachem Tidal over my aquaclear HOBs and have not look back.
On the second one you showed if you turn the skimmer off it wouldn't make that noise when the water level is that low,I bought mine right after I saw your first video,and I live it no complaints
Aqua clear and this filter you showed are great filters, but I think you can get better filtration at the same price with a sunsun 404b canister filter pricing at $80 dollars. This canister filter is quiet and the four tray layers gives you more option to customize you’re filtration. Plus it comes with a UV light for sterilization. Also the maintenance is easier on a canister filter, I’ve had my aqua clear 110 for 3 years now and have issues with the basket rising up and when the motor overheats from trapped debris the aquaclear stops working, Vaseline on the impeller helps to get working again though.
Packing it full don't stop the low water pump sound. I replaced all the media with 30ppi porret from Swiss tropicals. It may have restricted flow some but I never bothered with stock media. I have 2 40breeders, one with hob and one corner Matten, It's so weird how the same fish will act so different in each. Don't know if it's the slightly different layout, slightly different friends, or different filtration. PS, the lowest price now for the 110 on eBay is 65.
Thinking to buy one of this Tidal, can anyone tell me whats the minimum water level ? Because between the top of my tank and the water level is about 8 centimeters...
Is the Aquaclear 110 comparable in size to the Tidal 110? I have the Tidal 75 and love it, but it seems like it’s a bit large and bulky. Great filter overall, just seems a bit too large.
Thank you for being honest about the Tidal 110. I’ve been debating of making my own DIY 5 Gallon Bucket Canister Filter. With the pump that I will be hooking up to the DIY 5 Gallon Bucket Canister I will be able to filter over 1000 gallons per hour. Is that What I need, I don’t think so. The Gallon flow can be controlled. My tank will be heavily planted, so a HOB might just be perfect for me. My biggest cost with the DIY 5 Gallon Canister Filter will be the powerhead. It will cost slightly more than the Tidal 110. The good thing is I got time to decide what I will do. Do you think the Tidal 110 can support a longer tubing connection, perhaps a Right Angle Elbow to put the tubing Intake further away from the Tidal 110 Filter? Is the impeller strong enough to be used at about a 2’ distance from the main filter unit? Thank you for sharing! Enjoyed watching.
We're being pretty nit picky aren't we, especially to give it a 8 out of 10 for those little things you mentioned? Also there is an adjustment for that sound you're hearing! LOL! As far as being squared off I don't have problems with cutting my filters because I just use that packing you get from Walmart that comes in a quantity enough for eight years. Anyway it is the best one out on the market so far I've found and I have literally had hundreds of them. Not a very fair report if you ask me. I think you were more worried about the people saying that you were in cahoots with Seachem then you were about giving an honest report! Just my humble opinion!
@@littlej3777 It’s a little selector that changes the amount of flow between the skimmer and the main uptake. It’s rattling around. If you shove it all the way to one side it doesn’t do that
The color is okay with me I have the Marineland Bio weel HOB filters. Never had issues and mine have lasted a very long time. . Have to try that next time I need a new HB
Has anybody had a problem with the motor? I unplug mines ifor a water change and now it’s not coming back on. It has done that a couple of times and has always came back on, but now it’s not making any sounds. If anybody can help thank you.
These are the filters that I’m switching all my HOBs to. Like yourself,I wish it was squared off as well. The shape is irritating when I cut the filter pads I use. I love the skimmer however I see the point of others wanting to turn it off. I haven’t had any issues at all with any of mine. As far as HOBs go I give it a 9/10, in my opinion it’s the best HOB out there
Good video man once again! What i don't like about this filter is the telescopic way too short. I have it in a 90gal and it barely reaches the half of the height. So i added a big piece of filter pad to fix that. And last thing: the matrix that they provide with it... well let's say you have to put twice the amount to be effective in a 110gal. Thanx for your review^^
That "huge" piece inside the tank is where the motor is located. You can't trim it down that much, unless it has a smaller motor, which would decrease the flow rate, and thus much lower than for 110. If they put the motor back into the back of the box, then there's no more self priming. I would rather have the motor inside the tank than outside. Since you have a huge tank it's not an issue at all to me. It's not that big.
That varies greatly from person to person. I did not test GPh and I have changed media left and right minus bio very hard to gauge honestly unless you have the tools to do it or time lol
Love my five Sea Chem Tidal HOB's and they have replaced all of my Aquaclear and Aqueon's. I don't see what you called your design flaws as a problem but what I do find as a problem on the Tidal line is prefiltering the surface skimmer. It can be a bit of a problem for small shrimp and fry. I also disagree with their advertised self cleaning impeller... that has not been my experience in a couple of my busy tanks or tanks with snails. They require cleaning on a regular basis. Even so it is by far and away my favorite HOB.
This Tidal series looks more functional and promising. I am not a fan of the AquaClear Filters and will not be a fan of them because of the way their intake, the fragile filter box, and how it has the most difficult time to restart from a water change. The Tidal will be a contender to my dedicated Go-To products - The Marineland Biowheel series or the AquaTech HOB Series..
I have been using AquaClear and have loved the versatility and ability to fill it with so much media but have had to replace the motors after they burned out and HATE how noise it is. It always rattles and is so annoying especially in a main room of the house. It drives me crazy. Also doesn’t self prime so it is always a pain to start it back up after water changes. Really thinking about getting this filter as I’ve heard so many good reviews. I had just replaced my Aquaclear 110 when I discovered this filter. So mad that I spent the money on a new Aquaclear and it is already making all kinds of noise.
Quick tip. A small piece of tape on either corner solves the lid rattling issue. The motor should make absolutely no noise at all and if you're talking about the water splashing sound, your water is simply too low. I run AC110's and they are 100% silent, I can barely even hear it. People that complain about these are usually not doing something right lol
@@darrenmoore9239 It wasn’t the lid and it wasn’t the water splashing. The impeller’s were a real issue for me. Wound up getting a Seachem and it’s awesome.
Doesn't anyone own or run the emperor filters from marineland? I am thinking of switching to the seachem 110. I am currently running the new emperor 450.
I am going to test 2 aquaclear 110s and a tidal 110 on my 46g bowfront reef. One aquaclear as a refugium. I will figure out which one works best for me
I've had 2 AC 110's on my aquarium for years and replaced 2 motors in that time. They are set to run at full flow and work well. However, after recently having an issue with one, this time I decided to the Seachem 110 and replaced the malfunctioning AC. IMHO, Seachem does a much better job at filtering than the AC. On the AC, there is significant filter bypass, by design, since the filter basket allows water to go back in the tank, bypassing the foam with brief contact with the biological filtration at the top of the basket. This is why I ran 2 100's on a 75 gallon tank in the first place. With the Seachem 110, the water is forced up from below the basket, forcing it to flow through the foam and through the biological filtration. When there is significant bypass, the blue button floats up letting you know that the filter needs attention. The clicking noise when the water is low that Wilson captured in this video hasn't been an issue because I haven't allowed the water level to go near the minimum level mark. I perform smaller water changes 2 times a week to keep the water safe and stable. When the other AC fails, I will be replacing it with a Seachem 110, but only after testing to ensure that a second filter is needed. My suspicion is that the design is superior to the point that 1 Seachem 110 is actually filtering more efficiently than the 2 AC 110 setup I used for years.
I wish they came in clear plastic like aquaclear because i use mine as a fuge and have my light in the back. But that's not what they're intend for, are they? ;)
Hey jay I was wondering if u got any tips for me to get into fish keeping . Iven out of it for a few years be of cost to run the tank and to take care of it . Caus I also can’t be bringing bucket of water up to my room no more . I still love the hobby and just wanted to know if u had any advice. Thank you..
Spend smartly. Get a decent sized tank Great filtration Python Good fish Decent light Good food And you should be good to go I would say around $700 could outfit you new and used and make it pretty easy.
"they could trim it down a bit".... and how do you suppose the pump will fit in the space then? Unlike Aquaclear and just about every other HOB on the market (that I know of), the pump is inside the tank (under the water level in that bulge). A far better place to have it then outside the tank where it can run dry or leak of the seal fails.
Its a small motor as it is... We do have motors smaller BUT they are DC and need the extra cost of both motor and driver. 1 plus side is that a DC pump and be speed controlled, getting rid of that top blue wheel.
While I would love to have a canister filter on my 60 gal goldfish tank the hubby says no so I run 2 hobs on my tank one is a marinelad emperor bio wheel 400 in this one its all filter padding that i put in it and the other is a aqua clear 70 in this one is just a little filter padding and it's where I keep all my bio media. They work ok but my water is never clear and I do like 2 to 3 water changes a week I do keep 2 Oranda goldfish in my 60 gal with a mostly bare bottom a do have a few rocks scattered around but that's just because I hate bare bottom tanks my 10 gal tank is for My betta fish it is always clear and I run a hob made for a 20 gal tank and then I have a 5.5 gal for another betta fish that has an hob for a 10 gal and both of those always have clear water
That’s understandable keep doing what you are doing minus the 2-3 water changes a week just so one and see what happens. Not so much light maybe 6-8 hours a days when you are there to enjoy and do not feed as much. They always look hungry
I am using Seachem tidal 55 but the intake tube is too short and doesn't reach to the bottom of my tank. Do you have any suggestion to extend the length of the tube
The blue button is a game breaker and its not simple to paint. Don't get too much paint on it if you do it. Mine was also louder than aqua clears and not fit for any show tank of mine. I threw it in the closet after a week. Too much bulk in tank and the not squared off filter bin are Euro design errors to me. I also have a problem with colors on Eheim and other heaters and unpainted pvc. For me everything inside the tank needs to be black. I know everyone doest think its a big deal.
Thank you for answering my question. I think i'll buy one listening to you . I made a mistake I jumped in too soon and bought a 150 gallon tank and don't no what to do . I amm not a computer wiz. need all the help you can give me . I have holey honeycomb rock in my tank can't figure out what fish to put in it . Hum Bye the way I'm 72 . Thank You
The filter pads are worthless and some can be noisy but if they had them without the skimmer I would have them on all my tanks fairy easy maintenance but floating food is a bad Ideal
just bought my 2nd tidal 110 after 3 months i'm ditching my Ehiem pro 4 250 .it was so cheaply made clips that secure the motor to canister started cracking after 3 month Ehiem support was horrible . i may be over killing it but i'm adding a 2nd 110 i lack a sump under my saltwater hob tank just want be able to access my filters easy and fast . the 110 hold great bio media i run carbon and chemi blue in in one Tidal 2nd one has my bio media i did add my own phosphate pads in one of them .. the flow is awesome in both the skimmer works great .. I do plan to add a canister filter back to the tank just so mad at ehiem the thought of how cheap and poorly they make the pro 4 series revolts me it will most likely be the Fluval 407 then i'm done adding pumps to this tank of mine there not for sale in north america yet . But i got so mad at ehiem i had to pull it off my tank when i get mad at some thing its gone .. Owe Tidal can be found 110 Tidal for 63 dollars the media of your choice is awesome not locked into there junk like fluval or ehiem etc you get my drift .. Easy to clean be sure you keep carbon in a zipped bag do not want any slipping and falling below the media basket as its a choir to try and fish out all you will here is tumbling over and over as it hits the power filter //
Nice i I have a 110 AquaClear I have two of them it's pretty good so far but you're right oh maybe I tried to buy the next time i check it out some company
Sorry Jay, I normally like your videos, but I found this video confusing. I have two of these on my tanks and they work perfectly. I didn't understand what you meant about the noise they are making.
Jose I would just go with the 110 for the extra capacity and flow. It will only cost you about $15 more. Then if you decide to get a bigger tank the filter is it usable.
Problem, you keep bringing up Fluval, but that filter is made my Seachem with some Sicce pump engineering. I love my Tidal 55. The reasons you give for criticisms are really petty.
Why don’t they put the pump on the outside of the tank ?? Thats the way HOBs used to be...like marinelands hot 250 now that was a great canister filter...zero problems for many years.I like to be able to adjust the direction of the flow in the tank,can’t do that with these crappy HOBs It’s all about how cheap these things can be made....less parts ..
AC 110 500 gph rating drops to about 285 gph actual flow once supplied media is added in, you can test for yourself with 5 gallon bucket (actually measure 5 gal mark on bucket) . Tidal 110 450 gph is rated very close to AQ 110, not sure actual gph on Tidal but sounds like they are very similar in performance.
Just got one. Advertised as quiet. Not so. You can even hear how loud it is in your video. Going to exchange. If still loud will go with something else.
So I had a little mix up brain was not rocking properly. Fluval does not equal seachem. I apologize for the confusion...... but you already know that soooooooo ha! Enjoy! #brainfart
One thing I love that I've never seen anyone remark on: There are two oval shaped extrusions on the bottom of the lid. These match the oval shapedd holes in the bottom of the media basket. Take the lid off, turn upside down, then lift your media basket out and snap it into the lid. Now you habe a nice little carrying tray to take your media to the sink without dripping all over your floor!
Within 6 months of having 2 of these I had to modify both. Covered over flow holes. Made the holes in bottom of basket bigger. Made the main tube a full tube instead of half tube. Put media balls in bottom of basket so it does not clog.
Seachem is a great company I lost the leveler to my 110 and called them to see where I could purchase it and they sent me one for free, which most companies wouldn’t have done.
Good Video!!!! I was talking with a Mechanical Engineer friend of mine and he told me those flaws for him, were actually part of the design. The roundish shape of the housing allows for better water flow and distribution without producing micro bibling spaces within the housing, and the outside intake maybe was like that to be able to produce the extreme water flow control other filters don't have. I myself have an old Aqua Clear 500 for more than 25 years now, in a 125 gal tank and still works very good, but the Sea Chem 75 I got about a year ago for the same tank is as good or better that the AC-500. But that is my opinion based in just one unit each of these filters. Anyway, they are very good products. One of the strong advantages the Sea Chem has is the inside-water/tank pump. That system is way better than the one on the AC-500. Is quieter, pushes the water instead of pulling it, and always primes itself when you have power failures. I see the Sea Chem as a very big improvement over the AC-500, that is itself an excellent and reliable filter. That is my humble opinion
I ran 2 tidal 110s on my 55g. I absolutely loved them.
Are you using just the media Seachem provided with the filter? I have a 50 gallon freshwater community tank (tetras, zebras, gouramies) about 20 fish with a moderate amount of live plants. Would you recommend the Tidal 55 or would you go with the 75?
I've had my Aquaclear 500 for 26 years and never had to replace any parts....it's still going strong. I am interested the Tidal 110 for a 40 gallon reef tank and like the flow control.
How did this go? I’m looking at the exact same thing, a 110 for a 40 breeder reef tank. Lps mainly
@@Jp-gc6bh I've been using the aquaclear 500 on the 40 gallon reef tank. It's working very well. I do feel I should have a wet/dry system, they take up space though.
@Drinking Water yea, it’s good. I recommend it
The rounded design allows a better water flow to follow out. If they were to make it square like you want the water would hit the square wall to a dead stop then deflect out.
I don’t understand your cons toward this filter. Your big issue is the noise of the impeller. Well you have to have the water level higher. Any submersible pump has to be submerged. You’re getting impeller noise because of low water level, that’s not a product design flaw, that’s user error lol.
What's your opinion of the bypass? I've got a 75 and as you know, there's that big rectangular window at the front of the basket. A decent amount of tank water flows through that window and back into the tank, unfiltered. Also, even at 50% flow, water flows over the back of the basket and flows back into the tank, unfiltered. You think there's a design rationale for this? I've got 3 pads (two coarse, one medium, and matrix/rings filled up to half-way up that "bypass window". I'm thinking of taping off that window. Thanks.
I agree this is a big issue with this filter
The design rational is that water needs to flow for optimal biological filtration. I have two of the seachem course pads (like the one it came with) and the supplied bio-media on my 75 and have very little bypass as long as it's routinely rinsed. Of course, what you call bypass is actually a designed flow for the filter.
Using finer pads or material increases the bypass... The water has to have someplace to flow.
I've always ditched the pads on my hob filters and used filter floss material and sponges, with lots of bypass as it gets clogged. At least the Tidal is designed for this, allowing even flow as to eliminate dead spots.
The proof is in the water quality. Even with bypass, how are your testing levels? Ammonia? Nitrite?
Tbh, I knew that with this design there would be bypass, but I find that the filter works well regardless. I actually bought it more for the skimmer as I have a planted tank with cichlids and the bits of torn leaves floating about are annoying. It picks them right up!
@Drinking Water the Tidal 75 is enough for your tank as long as the cichlids are small. 5 cichlids over 4-5" would be a lot for that filter to handle. I actually swapped my seachem 75 out for a Marineland Penguin Pro. The Seachem stopped working suddenly after I turned it off. It was as if the motor had died.
I really liked the Seachem 75 but it's short life span was an issue. I must say that it outlasted the Aquaclear I bought before it. The AC lasted only 4 months before it died. They just don't make things to last anymore.
I have 3 Aqua clear 110 been running for 5 years straight, never had a problem with them. Substrate is sand no issues .
I have a 110 also on the sand substrate do you use the full length of the intake or you shortened it I don't want sand going up
That noise would drive me crazy
I currently have 11 Aquaclear filters and I find that they can break very easily. The plastic case simply isn't very strong and can crack if put under a little pressure. Although I don't have a seachem hob, the tidal 110 does look like it's made of stronger plastic and it probably doesn't break very easily. Plus the tidal has a skimmer which the AC does not have and I like the media baskets better then the AC. I gotta get one of these guys. Thanx for the update Jay!!
Just curious, how are they breaking? I've had about a dozen running for the past 10 years, and while I don't think they are perfect for every application, I've only ever had one case break and that was my fault. Not doubting you, just trying to figure it out. Are you taking them off of the tank a lot?
This is fun and hilarious video
Ran 2 110s for six months the hidden sludge that's builds up by the motor is really heavy and will effect low water level performance, your limited in media quantity due to the bypassing issue this tidal filter quickly developed. Yes you can lower the flow but then ask why?
The aqaclear design performs better but the noise and motor life is an issue. So basically we need a third filter on the market to employ the tidal filter motor set up on a aqaclear body. Plus I would like a aquaclaer 150 or 175.
Make it so Jay !!
Lol
Yes tidal bypass is a big issue . And I agree AC is very freaking noisy.
If aqua clear can put their motor in the water like the tidal , we would have the best filter.
ALWAYS INFORMATIVE AND WITH A GOOD LAUGH ! Thanks Jay .... hope all is well with you and the move .
It’s going lol
What's up Jay!!! Man I love my tidal 110's so much that I ordered 2 more and will have them up running this weekend. I refer them over the ac110. With the ac110/50 it was a crap shoot every time I re-plugged them back up. They were a constant pita. Very happy with the tidal 110's and thanks for the update video.
Hi Jay, I really like it. I’m using a 110 on my Tang tank, and it’s as quiet as a church mouse. The basket holds loads of extra Matrix in a second bag of it and I’m also running a second manufacturer coarse sponge. 👍
Good stuff
How large is the motor part that goes in the water...my acrylic tank has 1.5 inch opening for a hang on back to fit. thanks!
I’ve notice on mine, when I turn down the water flow it doesn’t slow down like yours. Was your intake knob set to the closed position that’s why the water was able to slow down ?
Richard Velez ..Take it apart and check the blue shaft under the housing isn’t bent .
I love how they put that removable media basket in there. One of my biggest pet peeves about HOB filters is having to remove the entire filter from the back of the tank to clean it out
I agree. With this design the bypass keeps crud from building up on the bottom under the basket and it's nice to just take it all out in one go and pop it right back in after cleaning.
Your video and the explanation you give are great. I have seen other that put this hob filter as if it was the cornerstone for filtration; I know it is ok but I consider that there are a lot of options out there.
Keep your tank full
Great vid, from what I see it's a decent filter and as you said one worth giving it a shot. I don't have one, but doing research on them I don't see the basket rising up when the filter gets mucked up and the precision adjustment for the flow control helps to not waste food and speed up the filter clogging up. At the price point it's worth giving it a look. Thanks for sharing the vid.
I like mine... I have one as a secondary filter. I modified it and added three different grades of coarse,medium and fine sponges. I also added ChemiPure to it.
Is this a good filter for goldfish aquarium because goldfish poop a lot.
Question for you Jay. The Tidal 110 vs Fluval C4. Which one would you say is the best HOB?
Tidal hands down
Thanks man. Will be making the change today!
For me, everything is fine except I would like to see an option to turn off the skimmer completely. I've switched to the Seachem Tidal over my aquaclear HOBs and have not look back.
Shhhweeeeet
On the second one you showed if you turn the skimmer off it wouldn't make that noise when the water level is that low,I bought mine right after I saw your first video,and I live it no complaints
I love mine , I think they work great
Aqua clear and this filter you showed are great filters, but I think you can get better filtration at the same price with a sunsun 404b canister filter pricing at $80 dollars. This canister filter is quiet and the four tray layers gives you more option to customize you’re filtration. Plus it comes with a UV light for sterilization. Also the maintenance is easier on a canister filter, I’ve had my aqua clear 110 for 3 years now and have issues with the basket rising up and when the motor overheats from trapped debris the aquaclear stops working, Vaseline on the impeller helps to get working again though.
You are correct but some do not have the space for a canister.
Hector Rodriguez SunSun 304b hands down!
Thank you thinking about buying one . How far from the wall does the aquarium have to be to accommodate the housing ?
About 4 inches max
Its really good for being a first hob filter for seachem. Cant complain anything about it unless the next one they come out preform less than this.
Made by Sicce in Italy.
that thumbnail Freaking me out 😂😂
Packing it full don't stop the low water pump sound. I replaced all the media with 30ppi porret from Swiss tropicals. It may have restricted flow some but I never bothered with stock media. I have 2 40breeders, one with hob and one corner Matten, It's so weird how the same fish will act so different in each. Don't know if it's the slightly different layout, slightly different friends, or different filtration. PS, the lowest price now for the 110 on eBay is 65.
Thinking to buy one of this Tidal, can anyone tell me whats the minimum water level ? Because between the top of my tank and the water level is about 8 centimeters...
I have been bitten by the fish keepers 🐛 bug, obsessing with the details ! Geez
Tidal 110 looks comparable to an AC70 or two tidal 110 to equal one AC110 in both flow/gph & media capacity imho.
Is the Aquaclear 110 comparable in size to the Tidal 110? I have the Tidal 75 and love it, but it seems like it’s a bit large and bulky. Great filter overall, just seems a bit too large.
hi jay, which seachem tidal would you recommend for a 40 gallon breeder tanks, lots of plants and guppies, thanks joe h. us navy seabee
We build we fight!
Hmmm I like the 75 and dial the flow back
@@Jaywil07 thank you jay.
Thank you for being honest about the Tidal 110. I’ve been debating of making my own DIY 5 Gallon Bucket Canister Filter. With the pump that I will be hooking up to the DIY 5 Gallon Bucket Canister I will be able to filter over 1000 gallons per hour. Is that What I need, I don’t think so. The Gallon flow can be controlled. My tank will be heavily planted, so a HOB might just be perfect for me. My biggest cost with the DIY 5 Gallon Canister Filter will be the powerhead. It will cost slightly more than the Tidal 110. The good thing is I got time to decide what I will do. Do you think the Tidal 110 can support a longer tubing connection, perhaps a Right Angle Elbow to put the tubing Intake further away from the Tidal 110 Filter? Is the impeller strong enough to be used at about a 2’ distance from the main filter unit? Thank you for sharing! Enjoyed watching.
How.much media do you have in the tidal 110
We're being pretty nit picky aren't we, especially to give it a 8 out of 10 for those little things you mentioned? Also there is an adjustment for that sound you're hearing! LOL! As far as being squared off I don't have problems with cutting my filters because I just use that packing you get from Walmart that comes in a quantity enough for eight years. Anyway it is the best one out on the market so far I've found and I have literally had hundreds of them. Not a very fair report if you ask me. I think you were more worried about the people saying that you were in cahoots with Seachem then you were about giving an honest report! Just my humble opinion!
What is that noise he mentioned?
@@littlej3777 It’s a little selector that changes the amount of flow between the skimmer and the main uptake. It’s rattling around. If you shove it all the way to one side it doesn’t do that
The color is okay with me I have the Marineland Bio weel HOB filters. Never had issues and mine have lasted a very long time. . Have to try that next time I need a new HB
Has anybody had a problem with the motor? I unplug mines ifor a water change and now it’s not coming back on. It has done that a couple of times and has always came back on, but now it’s not making any sounds. If anybody can help thank you.
These are the filters that I’m switching all my HOBs to. Like yourself,I wish it was squared off as well. The shape is irritating when I cut the filter pads I use. I love the skimmer however I see the point of others wanting to turn it off. I haven’t had any issues at all with any of mine. As far as HOBs go I give it a 9/10, in my opinion it’s the best HOB out there
Awesome thank you for that
Do you think 2 110’s would be okay for a 125 gallon lightly stocked saltwater aquarium?
Yes
Good video man once again! What i don't like about this filter is the telescopic way too short. I have it in a 90gal and it barely reaches the half of the height. So i added a big piece of filter pad to fix that. And last thing: the matrix that they provide with it... well let's say you have to put twice the amount to be effective in a 110gal. Thanx for your review^^
Thank you
That "huge" piece inside the tank is where the motor is located. You can't trim it down that much, unless it has a smaller motor, which would decrease the flow rate, and thus much lower than for 110. If they put the motor back into the back of the box, then there's no more self priming. I would rather have the motor inside the tank than outside. Since you have a huge tank it's not an issue at all to me. It's not that big.
How about the most important factors of a filter? Gallons per hour and media?
That varies greatly from person to person. I did not test GPh and I have changed media left and right minus bio very hard to gauge honestly unless you have the tools to do it or time lol
I get tons of questions on these filters but don’t own them.. I’m in search of good info/footage 🤓
@John L it's quite possible that the pump produces that # flow rate if the lift didn't exist
I think I'm going to buy this instead of another AC 110
Love my five Sea Chem Tidal HOB's and they have replaced all of my Aquaclear and Aqueon's. I don't see what you called your design flaws as a problem but what I do find as a problem on the Tidal line is prefiltering the surface skimmer. It can be a bit of a problem for small shrimp and fry. I also disagree with their advertised self cleaning impeller... that has not been my experience in a couple of my busy tanks or tanks with snails. They require cleaning on a regular basis. Even so it is by far and away my favorite HOB.
This Tidal series looks more functional and promising. I am not a fan of the AquaClear Filters and will not be a fan of them because of the way their intake, the fragile filter box, and how it has the most difficult time to restart from a water change. The Tidal will be a contender to my dedicated Go-To products - The Marineland Biowheel series or the AquaTech HOB Series..
I have been using AquaClear and have loved the versatility and ability to fill it with so much media but have had to replace the motors after they burned out and HATE how noise it is. It always rattles and is so annoying especially in a main room of the house. It drives me crazy. Also doesn’t self prime so it is always a pain to start it back up after water changes. Really thinking about getting this filter as I’ve heard so many good reviews. I had just replaced my Aquaclear 110 when I discovered this filter. So mad that I spent the money on a new Aquaclear and it is already making all kinds of noise.
Quick tip.
A small piece of tape on either corner solves the lid rattling issue.
The motor should make absolutely no noise at all and if you're talking about the water splashing sound, your water is simply too low.
I run AC110's and they are 100% silent, I can barely even hear it.
People that complain about these are usually not doing something right lol
@@darrenmoore9239 It wasn’t the lid and it wasn’t the water splashing. The impeller’s were a real issue for me. Wound up getting a Seachem and it’s awesome.
Doesn't anyone own or run the emperor filters from marineland? I am thinking of switching to the seachem 110. I am currently running the new emperor 450.
What kind of heater(brand) will fit the heater holder which can heat a 75 gal fish tank?
i love the filter it starts on its own.
Like my Eheim 600.
I am going to test 2 aquaclear 110s and a tidal 110 on my 46g bowfront reef. One aquaclear as a refugium. I will figure out which one works best for me
Where’s the clip for the heater ?
I have one and the only thing i don’t like is the water noise and it does clog easy but other than that it’s pretty good
I've had 2 AC 110's on my aquarium for years and replaced 2 motors in that time. They are set to run at full flow and work well. However, after recently having an issue with one, this time I decided to the Seachem 110 and replaced the malfunctioning AC.
IMHO, Seachem does a much better job at filtering than the AC. On the AC, there is significant filter bypass, by design, since the filter basket allows water to go back in the tank, bypassing the foam with brief contact with the biological filtration at the top of the basket. This is why I ran 2 100's on a 75 gallon tank in the first place.
With the Seachem 110, the water is forced up from below the basket, forcing it to flow through the foam and through the biological filtration. When there is significant bypass, the blue button floats up letting you know that the filter needs attention.
The clicking noise when the water is low that Wilson captured in this video hasn't been an issue because I haven't allowed the water level to go near the minimum level mark. I perform smaller water changes 2 times a week to keep the water safe and stable.
When the other AC fails, I will be replacing it with a Seachem 110, but only after testing to ensure that a second filter is needed. My suspicion is that the design is superior to the point that 1 Seachem 110 is actually filtering more efficiently than the 2 AC 110 setup I used for years.
Love this feed back! GREAT STUFF
aqua clears are still the best filter
Are you going to be at the ACA in Houston this year? I seen your video with Ben where you said you might.
I’ll be there
I wish they came in clear plastic like aquaclear because i use mine as a fuge and have my light in the back. But that's not what they're intend for, are they? ;)
What do u have ur intake set at
Meaning do u have the skimmer intake on full or half way
How do U balance it out
Very cool I like mine for the most part also.
Thanks pecktec
Hey jay I was wondering if u got any tips for me to get into fish keeping . Iven out of it for a few years be of cost to run the tank and to take care of it . Caus I also can’t be bringing bucket of water up to my room no more . I still love the hobby and just wanted to know if u had any advice. Thank you..
Spend smartly.
Get a decent sized tank
Great filtration
Python
Good fish
Decent light
Good food
And you should be good to go
I would say around $700 could outfit you new and used and make it pretty easy.
the only thing i don't use is the heater holder to high
I have 2 aquaclear 110 on my 75 is that enough filtration and if so what's the biggest size tank I can get with 2 110 aquaclear filter
I mean I would go bigger than a 150 but that is me
Man the voices had me 💀💀💀
"they could trim it down a bit".... and how do you suppose the pump will fit in the space then?
Unlike Aquaclear and just about every other HOB on the market (that I know of), the pump is inside the tank (under the water level in that bulge). A far better place to have it then outside the tank where it can run dry or leak of the seal fails.
It’s just an thought. I am sure technology will advance and they will get just a good of a motor in a smaller space.
Its a small motor as it is... We do have motors smaller BUT they are DC and need the extra cost of both motor and driver. 1 plus side is that a DC pump and be speed controlled, getting rid of that top blue wheel.
While I would love to have a canister filter on my 60 gal goldfish tank the hubby says no so I run 2 hobs on my tank one is a marinelad emperor bio wheel 400 in this one its all filter padding that i put in it and the other is a aqua clear 70 in this one is just a little filter padding and it's where I keep all my bio media. They work ok but my water is never clear and I do like 2 to 3 water changes a week I do keep 2 Oranda goldfish in my 60 gal with a mostly bare bottom a do have a few rocks scattered around but that's just because I hate bare bottom tanks my 10 gal tank is for My betta fish it is always clear and I run a hob made for a 20 gal tank and then I have a 5.5 gal for another betta fish that has an hob for a 10 gal and both of those always have clear water
That’s understandable keep doing what you are doing minus the 2-3 water changes a week just so one and see what happens. Not so much light maybe 6-8 hours a days when you are there to enjoy and do not feed as much. They always look hungry
What's the purpose or reason to SLOW down the flow of water from strong to a trickle?
more time for water to be filtered, polished, bacteria to stick
I am using Seachem tidal 55 but the intake tube is too short and doesn't reach to the bottom of my tank. Do you have any suggestion to extend the length of the tube
Maybe something diy to extend it.
Seachem tidal filter does not have any accessories to be purchase at the moment right?
I don’t think so.
Thanks for reply Jay. God bless u!
Kfc Potato anytime my friend anytime
The blue button is a game breaker and its not simple to paint. Don't get too much paint on it if you do it. Mine was also louder than aqua clears and not fit for any show tank of mine.
I threw it in the closet after a week. Too much bulk in tank and the not squared off filter bin are Euro design errors to me.
I also have a problem with colors on Eheim and other heaters and unpainted pvc. For me everything inside the tank needs to be black. I know everyone doest think its a big deal.
Have both in my 125 ... I can’t compare them ... rather let them work together
Thank you for answering my question. I think i'll buy one listening to you . I made a mistake I jumped in too soon and bought a 150 gallon tank and don't no what to do . I amm not a computer wiz. need all the help you can give me . I have holey honeycomb rock in my tank can't figure out what fish to put in it . Hum Bye the way I'm 72 . Thank You
The filter pads are worthless and some can be noisy but if they had them without the skimmer I would have them on all my tanks fairy easy maintenance but floating food is a bad Ideal
just bought my 2nd tidal 110 after 3 months i'm ditching my Ehiem pro 4 250 .it was so cheaply made clips that secure the motor to canister started cracking after 3 month Ehiem support was horrible . i may be over killing it but i'm adding a 2nd 110 i lack a sump under my saltwater hob tank just want be able to access my filters easy and fast . the 110 hold great bio media i run carbon and chemi blue in in one Tidal 2nd one has my bio media i did add my own phosphate pads in one of them .. the flow is awesome in both the skimmer works great .. I do plan to add a canister filter back to the tank just so mad at ehiem the thought of how cheap and poorly they make the pro 4 series revolts me it will most likely be the Fluval 407 then i'm done adding pumps to this tank of mine there not for sale in north america yet . But i got so mad at ehiem i had to pull it off my tank when i get mad at some thing its gone .. Owe Tidal can be found 110 Tidal for 63 dollars the media of your choice is awesome not locked into there junk like fluval or ehiem etc you get my drift .. Easy to clean be sure you keep carbon in a zipped bag do not want any slipping and falling below the media basket as its a choir to try and fish out all you will here is tumbling over and over as it hits the power filter //
Hello friend, good video, Would you recommend Tidal 110 for a 300 liters aquarium ?
Yes I would
@@Jaywil07 Hey Jay. Emperor pro 450 or the Tidal 110? I am considering either of these for my 100gal. Which one?
Nice i I have a 110 AquaClear I have two of them it's pretty good so far but you're right oh maybe I tried to buy the next time i check it out some company
Awesome got to use what you like
If you have a time can you check my Channel please thanks
2:58 LOL
Hay jay how often do u test ur oh levels in your tanks thanks Jay
My ph level and other levels are tested prior to a water change and a day after a water change
Cheers Jay appreciate it .hollaaa ! 👍
Sorry Jay, I normally like your videos, but I found this video confusing. I have two of these on my tanks and they work perfectly. I didn't understand what you meant about the noise they are making.
Bill O'Brien well I stated if you drop your water level and it’s tilted it will cause a noise. It’s a great filter as stated in the video
I got one of these yesterday and it is loud
Contact Seachem
Hi Jason, I want to use seachem 55 on my 20 long reef tank ?
Jose I would just go with the 110 for the extra capacity and flow. It will only cost you about $15 more. Then if you decide to get a bigger tank the filter is it usable.
Problem, you keep bringing up Fluval, but that filter is made my Seachem with some Sicce pump engineering. I love my Tidal 55. The reasons you give for criticisms are really petty.
you need longer intake tubes, to short.
I was thinking about using those for my saltwater tank I wanted to get 2 of the seachem tidal 110 for my 80 gall
SELAH MUZIK I was thinking of using 2 Tidal 110’s for a 125 gallon lightly stocked saltwater aquarium. Did it work out for you?
Please compare this to the marineland emperor pro 450.
Why don’t they put the pump on the outside of the tank ?? Thats the way HOBs used to be...like marinelands hot 250 now that was a great canister filter...zero problems for many years.I like to be able to adjust the direction of the flow in the tank,can’t do that with these crappy HOBs
It’s all about how cheap these things can be made....less parts ..
Is this a better filter than the Penn plexus 300 cascade hob?
Toss up
Kidding yes 100%
They need to revamp the filter pad and make one without the skimmer
Use Poly-fil ($5 for a big bag from Wal-mart) instead of the pad. Skimmer... I agree but SeaChem is marine first, freshwater (distant) second company.
AquaClear vs the tidal ?????
The aquaclear holds more media and pumps more gph just think about that
AC 110 500 gph rating drops to about 285 gph actual flow once supplied media is added in, you can test for yourself with 5 gallon bucket (actually measure 5 gal mark on bucket) . Tidal 110 450 gph is rated very close to AQ 110, not sure actual gph on Tidal but sounds like they are very similar in performance.
I do own 5 tital 110s like a dummy should I tested 1 1st but i hate aquaclear so bad I jumped the gun lol
If Seachem Tidal is an 8 thenb Aquaclear is a 6.
Just got one. Advertised as quiet. Not so. You can even hear how loud it is in your video. Going to exchange. If still loud will go with something else.
What do you hear in the background is not that filter what is the air pumps that are driving missed lunch counters and the other aquariums
I contacted them and they had me send a video of my pump running. They are replacing the pump. Great support. Hopefully this fixes the noise level.
good job sbut down Haters from Jump street!!! oh no 🤤🤤 the aquaclear gods R offended 👌 nice revirw!!!!!!!💥💥💥💥
Hahahahaha
Sea chem and fluval(hagen)not same company.
Fluval Hagen is the same
HOW MUCH DO THOSE FILTERS COST ABOUT????????
$75
Longer and thinner
They are built by sicce
Yes the pumps are correct