SOBO AQ‑17H Top-Mounted Bio-Top Aquarium Filter

Efficient Multi-Stage Filtration | Ideal for Aquariums up to 3.5 ft | Energy-Saving & Quiet

The SOBO AQ‑17H is a compact, top-mounted (overflow-style) aquarium filter, engineered to deliver powerful multi-stage filtration with low energy consumption. Designed for tanks up to 3.5 feet (~100–110 cm) in length, it hangs neatly over the aquarium rim, saving space while enhancing water clarity and oxygen levels.

🔧 Key Specifications

• Power Consumption: ~6 Watts

• Flow Rate: ~450–500 Litres/hour

• Filter Box Dimensions: Approx. 33 cm × 8.5 cm × 10 cm

• Suitable Tank Size: Best for aquariums up to ~3.5 ft (90–110 cm), typically holding 80–120 litres

• Noise Level: Quiet operation (~25–45 dB)

🧰 Included Filtration Media

• 3 Sponge Pads (Mechanical Filtration)

• 1 Pack of Bio-Rings

• 2 Packs of Ceramic Bio-Balls
  These components provide mechanical and biological filtration, promoting clean water and stable tank conditions by encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria.

🌟 Core Features

• Multi-Stage Filtration System
  Offers layered mechanical and biological filtration in a single compact unit.

• Waterfall Design with Oxygenation Wheel
  A waterwheel-style cascade increases surface agitation, improving oxygen exchange for healthier aquatic life.

• Transparent Acrylic Filter Box with Splash Cover
  Makes it easy to monitor media condition and maintain cleanliness, while the splash guard helps contain water and debris.

• Simple Rim Mount Installation
  Easily clips onto aquarium glass up to 10–12 mm thick with no complicated setup.

• Low Noise & Energy Efficient
  Operates quietly with minimal energy draw—ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, or workspaces.

✅ Benefits

• Space-Saving Design: Mounts outside the tank, preserving internal swimming space

• Improved Oxygenation: Waterwheel and cascade boost dissolved oxygen and circulation

• Clean & Compact Setup: Neatly organized system with easy visual access to filter media

• Low Maintenance: Designed for easy cleaning and upkeep

• Ideal for Freshwater Setups: Great for planted, shrimp, nano, and community tanks

⚠️ Things to Consider

• Tank Size Compatibility: Best for tanks up to 3.5 ft—may be underpowered for larger setups

• Manual Priming Needed: Requires manual restart after draining or power outages

• Routine Cleaning Required: Filter sponges and bio-media should be maintained regularly to avoid flow reduction

🧼 Maintenance Tips

• Rinse sponge pads every 1–2 weeks using tank water (to preserve bacteria)

• Inspect and rinse bio-rings and ceramic balls monthly or as needed

• Ensure the waterwheel runs smoothly—clear any debris buildup

• Check the splash cover is correctly positioned to prevent splashing or motor noise

📋 Quick Summary Table

🧭 Final Thoughts

The SOBO AQ‑17H Bio-Top Filter is a quiet, compact, and highly efficient solution for aquariums up to 3.5 feet. Its clever design combines strong filtration and oxygenation with ease of maintenance and low power consumption. Whether you're running a planted tank, shrimp setup, or peaceful community aquarium, this filter keeps your aquatic environment clean, stable, and healthy.

If you’re choosing between the AQ‑17H and similar models like the AQ‑16H or AQ‑18H, the 17H is a perfect mid-range choice—powerful enough for medium tanks while maintaining a quiet, energy-saving profile.