Angelfish are very particular about their water. They feel changes in the water quality much more easily than tetras, guppies or bettas do.
So it's very important to have a great filter.
I don't know of a pet store that doesn't sell the standard, hang-on filters. I started with two Marineland filters on my 70-gallon tank (I have seven tanks at the present time). Each filter was rated for up to 60 gallons but because angelfish can place a heavy load on the system I wanted to have a bit more than I needed instead of just barely adequate. These filters are easy to install and operate. It takes just minutes and about once a week, simply rinse out the filter media inside. Once every 4-6 weeks, replace the filter.
The hang-on filters can be noisy, however. And since this tank is in the great room, it meant having to turn up the television just a bit louder. The white noise was always there. Angels also do not like a lot of current because of their long fins, especially if you have the veil-tail variety.
Setup is not for the faint of heart. It took a full day for me to set up the first one and about three hours to set up another one a year later on a 60-gallon tank. However, once it is installed, it is a breeze to maintain. It cuts down on water changes, it keeps the water incredibly clean and clear, and it is completely noiseless.
I clean the filter media about once every two months. Directions recommend once a month but because I have my tanks understocked, every two months is all it takes.
Tomorrow: how often to change the water and how best to do it.
