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DIY Trickle Filter for a Freshwater Tank

Without a filtration system, freshwater tanks can accumulate bacteria and algae in unhealthful amounts. Trickle filters, like other aquarium filters, cycle and remove water through a fish tank through a process of overflow. As the water overflows, it's filtered and then accumulates in a collection area called the sump, where it is then pumped back into the tank through a spillway.

Things You'll Need

Clear plastic storage box such as a 50-gallon plastic container
Submersible pump
Plastic tubes
PVC three-way fitting
Sink drain
Filter wool
Pebbles
Three hose clamps
Power drill
Tape measure
PVC cutter

Instructions

- 1
  Cut a hole into the base of the sump container so it fits the sink container.
- 2
  Drill two holes into the sump container at its widest end and one hole on its smaller end.
- 3
  Place the submersible pump high in the aquarium and several inches underneath the water. Use plants to conceal it.
- 4
  Connect the plastic tubes from the submersible pump to the spray bars already in the aquarium.
- 5
  Place the sump above the tank or in a shelf within the tank if one is already made.
- 6
  Add aquarium pebbles to the bottom of the sump.
- 7
  Connect the PVC piping to the sump.
- 8
  Make one of the PVC fittings open so that the water can flow out of it.
- 9
  Place the plastic tubing connected to the sump in through the PVC piping.

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