Name: Sobo External Canister Filter
Brand: SOBO
SKU: 13596 - Base
Price: 1231.0 ZAR
Availability: InStock

SOBO External Canister Filter (SF Series)

Upgrade your aquarium’s filtration with the SOBO SF Series Canister Filter — a reliable, high-capacity solution designed for both freshwater and marine tanks. With multiple flow rates, multistage media capacity, and optional UV versions, the SF series helps you achieve crystal-clear water and a healthy aquatic environment.

Key Features & Benefits

Multilayer Filtration System
The SF Series delivers mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration:
• Mechanical — captures debris, sediment, and uneaten feed.
• Chemical — by using activated carbon or other chemical media to remove dissolved toxins and discoloration.
• Biological — plenty of space for bio-media (ceramic rings, bio-balls etc.) so beneficial bacteria can colonize and convert harmful ammonia and nitrites.

Adjustable Flow & High Flow Rates
Various models offer flow rates ranging from ≈ 650 L/h up to 2200 L/h, making it suitable for small to large tanks. Power consumption scales accordingly.

Leak-Proof & Durable Construction
Designed with reliable seals and a secure locking mechanism (press-lock or similar) to prevent leaks. High-quality casing and materials suitable for aquarium use.

Optional UV Sterilizer Versions
For models with “UV” suffix, there is an integrated UV lamp (≈ 9 W) that helps reduce free-floating algae, harmful bacteria and pathogens, improving water clarity and overall tank health.

Quiet Operation & Maintenance Ease
The motor is relatively low wattage with smooth operation. Access doors, interruption valves, tubing and fittings included. Filter basket arrangement allows easy addition/removal of media pads. Many users report satisfying performance for the price.

Specifications (Selected Models)

Here are some representative models in the SOBO SF Series:

Model	Max Flow Rate	Power Consumption	Recommended Tank Size / Use Case	Other Specs
SF-650F	~ 650 L/h	~ 8 W	Smaller tanks (≈ 2 foot or smaller)	Compact canister size and basic media baskets
SF-850F	~ 850 L/h	~ 9 W	Medium tanks (≈ 2–3 foot)	Same basic structure, larger capacity; optional UV version in some variants
SF-1000F	~ 1000 L/h	~ 10 W	Larger tanks, moderate bioload	Taller canister with more media scope; dimensions ~ 19×20×36 cm
SF-1200F	~ 1200 L/h	~ 13.5 W	Tanks up to 120 cm length; heavy planted or stocked environments	Optional UV; good basket size
SF-1500F	~ 1500 L/h	~ 15 W	Large tanks; high bioload or dense plant setups	Some models have UV; higher capacity and heavier unit
SF-1800F & SF-2200F (UV models)	~ 1800 – 2200 L/h	~ 18-22 W	Very large tanks; reef or heavily stocked marine systems	Large size; more media baskets; more robust fittings needed

What Makes It a Good Choice

Value for Money: SOBO filters tend to deliver strong flow and filtration capability relative to cost. For hobbyists wanting performance without premium brand pricing, they offer good utility.

Flexibility: With multiple models and optional UV versions, you can pick one suited to your tank’s size, bioload, and water-clarity needs.

Support for Biological Stability: Good media capacity helps maintain stable water parameters, which is crucial for plant growth, fish health, and coral (if marine).

Quiet & Continuous Operation: Once set up, with regular maintenance, these filters run for long periods without the need for frequent intervention.

Trade-Offs / Considerations

Initial Priming: As with many canister filters, you’ll need to fill/prime the unit before use. Air trapped in hoses or chambers can reduce performance until purged.

Media Not Included: Filter media like carbon, ceramic rings, bio-balls are not included, must be purchased separately.

Space & Tubing Setup: Takes some space outside the tank; hoses need to be routed neatly, with valves ideally to facilitate easy maintenance.

UV Versions are Optional: If using UV, you need to consider replacement bulbs/lamp maintenance. Also, UV helps with pathogens and algae, but isn’t a substitute for good biological control and water changes.

Wear & Parts: Impellers, seals, O-rings can wear over time