🎃 Come & Join the Team

Your cart

Your cart is empty

Continue shopping

Freshwater Filtration

Discover high-performance freshwater filtration systems at Charterhouse Aquatics. From internal and external filters to sponge and bio-media options, find top brands like Fluval, Eheim, and Oase. Ensure crystal-clear water, optimal biological balance, and a healthy aquarium environment.
Freshwater Aquarium Filtration Explained

Freshwater Aquarium Filtration Explained

A Complete Guide

Freshwater External Filters
Freshwater External Filters
Freshwater Internal Filters
Freshwater Internal Filters
Freshwater Hang-On Filters
Freshwater Hang-On Filters
Surface Skimmers
Surface Skimmers
Flexible Tubing
Flexible Tubing
ATO Units
ATO Units
Freshwater RO
Freshwater RO
Freshwater UV's
Freshwater UV's
Freshwater Filter Media
Freshwater Filter Media
Fluval External Filters
Fluval External Filters
Freshwater Fleece Filters
Freshwater Fleece Filters
Filter Pads and Foams
Filter Pads and Foams

Found 686 items

1…171819…29

Have Questions About Freshwater Filtration?

We have answers. Get quick help for common questions.

What type of filter is best for a freshwater aquarium?
The best filter for your freshwater tank depends on its size, stock level, and setup style. External canister filters are ideal for medium to large tanks due to their strong flow and multi-stage filtration. Internal filters are great for small to mid-size aquariums and are easy to install. Sponge filters are perfect for breeding tanks or shrimp tanks, offering gentle biological filtration.
What are the different types of filtration in freshwater aquariums?
There are three main types of filtration: mechanical filtration removes physical debris like uneaten food and plant matter; biological filtration supports beneficial bacteria that break down toxic ammonia and nitrite; and chemical filtration uses media like activated carbon to remove odors, discoloration, and dissolved impurities.
How do I choose the right size filter for my tank?
Look for a filter rated for at least 3 to 5 times your tank’s volume per hour. For example, a 100-litre tank would need a filter with a minimum flow rate of 300 to 500 LPH. Overstocked or heavily planted tanks may benefit from more powerful filtration.
Are sponge filters enough for a freshwater tank?
Sponge filters are effective for smaller tanks, breeding setups, or tanks with delicate species like fry or shrimp. They offer gentle water flow and excellent biological filtration but may not be sufficient for heavily stocked or large tanks.
How often should I clean my freshwater aquarium filter?
In general, filters should be cleaned every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the bio-load of your tank. Over-cleaning or using tap water can disrupt beneficial bacteria colonies, so it’s best to rinse filter media in old tank water to preserve biological filtration.
Do I need a filter in a planted or low-stock tank?
Yes. Even in planted or lightly stocked tanks, filtration is essential for maintaining water circulation, supporting bacterial colonies, and removing waste. However, flow strength may need to be reduced to avoid disturbing plants or slow-moving species.
Can I mix different types of filter media?
Absolutely. Many advanced aquarists customize their filtration by mixing sponge for mechanical filtration, ceramic rings or bio media for biological filtration, and carbon or resin for chemical filtration. This creates a more efficient and balanced filtration system.
What maintenance does a canister filter require?
Canister filters should be checked monthly and thoroughly cleaned every one to two months. This involves rinsing or replacing media, cleaning impellers, and ensuring all hoses and connections are free of clogs and debris.

Explore the Best in Freshwater Filtration at Charterhouse Aquatics

At Charterhouse Aquatics, we stock a wide range of freshwater filtration systems designed to keep your aquarium water clean, clear, and healthy. Whether you’re setting up a small nano tank or maintaining a large planted aquarium, the right filtration system is essential for removing waste, balancing water parameters, and supporting beneficial bacteria. Choose from trusted brands such as Fluval, Eheim, Oase, and Tetra, offering everything from powerful external canister filters to space-saving internal filters, air-driven sponge filters, and customizable media packs. Our selection caters to all experience levels—from beginners to aquascaping pros—ensuring your freshwater setup runs smoothly and efficiently. Need advice on choosing the right filter? Our expert team is here to help. Enjoy fast UK shipping, competitive pricing, and top-tier customer service every time you shop with us. Keep your aquatic world thriving with freshwater filtration solutions from Charterhouse Aquatics.
Explore the Best in Freshwater Filtration at Charterhouse Aquatics

CHARTERHOUSE REWARDS

A little thank you, every time.

Earn points when you shop, then turn them into money off at checkout.

Points with every eligible purchase8 stamps. 10% off.

COLLECT POINTS

Checking today’s rate…

Earn automatically on eligible product spend after discounts, excluding delivery.

SPEND POINTS

Checking today’s rate…

Switch on your points at checkout to save on eligible products.

Normal value: 100 points = £1 off. Flash offers can increase this.

Finding your rewards…

How to earn and spend your points

01

1. Shop and earn points

Earn 1 point for every £1 of eligible product spend after discounts, excluding delivery.

02

2. Use your points at checkout

Sign in at checkout and switch on “Use my points”. Your available points become money off automatically—no voucher to claim. Savings cover eligible products only; any points you cannot use stay in your balance.

03

3. Get more with flash offers

Watch for flash offers with double or triple points, or extra value when you spend them.

YOUR STAMP CARD

Eight stamps. One lovely thank you.

Each order with £250 or more in products after discounts, excluding delivery, earns one stamp. Fill all 8 slots to unlock a 10% off code, valid for 365 days. Use it alongside your points.

Sign in to see how close you are to your next reward.

Good to know

Why are some points pending?

Purchase points have an approval period before they become available. Your balance shows available points separately from pending points.

How long do my points last?

When points expiry applies, your balance stays valid for 365 days from qualifying rewards activity. Earning eligible rewards, redeeming points or a balance adjustment renews that window. Simply visiting the shop does not renew it.

Can I use points with my stamp reward?

Yes. Add your 10% stamp reward code at checkout and switch on your points. Your final saving depends on the eligible product total and any other discount restrictions.

What happens if I return something?

Earned points are adjusted for returns. Points used on refunded products are restored proportionally. If a refund takes a qualifying order below £250, its stamp is removed.

Start typing to search.