Question about Filters and Marine tanks

So I know filters and marine tanks don't really mix well. I know that waste and debris gets stuck in the filter pad and creates nitrates. I have a 10 gallon tank, with a 2 1/2 inch deep sand bed, 15 pounds of live rock, around 12 snails, with 2 clownfish and a blue damsel. I know, I'm probably overstocked, but i don't even plan on adding any more fish. I have a tetra whisper 10i internal filter in the tank. I like it basically only for the carbon, as it keeps the water cleaner. But, the carbon is built inside of the filter pad replacement pads, so there is no way i can have carbon in there without the mechanical filtration.

So my question is this, if I were to get around 5 more pounds of live rock and add in a small powerhead for circulation and whatnot, would I be able to get the filter out of the tank completely? I know protein skimmers are the way to go with saltwater tanks, but I wouldn't wanna spend so much on a protein skimmer for a nano. Also, since the tank is in my room the skimmer sounds would probably bother me during the night. thanks!

 

You're going to need something to remove the proteins and fine particles that will collect on the surface.

You can replace the carbon and filter pad with a small bag of chemipure or other charcoal.

It's not that filter pads are a bad thing, I run a sponge, it's just that you have to remember to do the maintenance.

I would get rid of the internal filter and get a bigger HOB. Paint the back of the tank black and you will really will not notice the hang on the back filter.

 

I got an Aqueon Quiet HOB filter rated for 20 gallons when I first got this tank, but it's just too loud for me. It's not the water splashing noise that bothers me, it's just the sound of the propeller that prevents me from sleeping lol. I have the same internal filter on my freshwater tank so I just decided to get another for my marine tank, and both are dead quiet cause they're under the water.

 

I don't see hob filters as a problem, I ran 2 emperor 400s on my 80g and IMPO was very successful. You just have to remember to maintenance them properly to eliminate the detritus buildup and excess garbage that can collect and replace filters often. A protein skimmer is also a must IMO for a reef set up.
+1 to coralline's suggestion.

 

Comes down to, you will need to have something to move and collect the oily protein layer that accumulates when you have no skimmer or overflow.

You can not simply do this with only flow in the tank.

 

Would you guys know any kind of silent skimmer for a 10 gallon tank? I've heard people say that there is really no such thing as a silent skimmer, which I definitely understand. But I guess asking couldn't hurt haha

 

I've always been a fan of the original Whisper filters. I'm currently running a Whisper 60 on my 29h reef tank. As you said, there's really no such thing as a "silent" filter, but they're as close as you can get, they're easily maintained, and they last forever.

 

If no sump, I really like the Aquaclear line. With your WC's, just rinse the sponge and carbon bag in old saltwater. These filters are really easy to clean and very versatile to stock with media (GFO, carbon, etc.) You really do not need a skimmer in that size aquarium. Just be on top of your WC's.

 

you could mod an ac20 and make it a refugium!

 

I've never been able to hear an impeller, especially on a tank that size. Are you sure the tube is all the way in and nothing is stuck in with the impeller?