Sicce Space EKO+ Canister Filter Review: A Practical Tool for Reef Aquariums

Introduction

The Sicce Space EKO+ canister filter brings a practical solution to saltwater aquarists who want flexible filtration options beyond traditional hang-on or in-sump designs. While canister filters are less common in reef setups, they excel in specific roles: supplemental media reactors, temporary water polishing tools, and primary filters for space-constrained tanks. This review examines what makes the Space EKO+ a solid choice for these applications.

What Comes in the Box

The Space EKO+ arrives fully assembled with media trays pre-loaded and ready to use. Inside you’ll find the canister body with integrated pump motor, media baskets containing 10 ppi and 20 ppi foam pads plus biomedia, smoke grey and clear rigid tubing, installation hardware, and a quality control card. The largest model (300) also includes a fine filtration pad and activated carbon.

Three size options are available: the 100 (145 GPH), 200 (185 GPH), and 300 (240 GPH). The manufacturer rates these for 30 to 80-gallon freshwater tanks, but reef aquarists typically use them differently, as the flow rates are lower than what most saltwater systems require as a primary filter.

Primary Filter Setup for Nano Reefs

If you prefer your aquarium positioned close to the wall without a hang-on filter, a canister filter can work as a primary filter for smaller reef tanks. The key is compensating for the lower flow rating with additional circulation pumps inside the tank. Set up the media with a coarse foam pad at the bottom and fill the remaining trays with biomedia of your choice. This approach keeps maintenance to a monthly schedule rather than weekly or bi-weekly cleanings.

A 20-gallon SPS-dominated reef can run successfully on this setup for extended periods, provided you maintain consistent water quality monitoring and perform regular water changes.

User-Friendly Design Features

The Space EKO+ stands out for its practical engineering. The intake and output nozzles are clearly marked to prevent connection errors. An integrated priming rod and check valve make initial setup straightforward. The quick disconnect gang valve lets you detach tubing without draining the system, simplifying maintenance. Media baskets lock in place and pull out easily with a top handle, making media swaps and rinsing quick work.

The motor and impeller sit in the lid, keeping power cords and mechanical components out of the tank. Operation is nearly silent and will be inaudible in a standard aquarium stand. An output nozzle extension accommodates tanks with lower water levels or allows you to position the outlet deeper in the water column.

Water Polishing Media Setup

Most reef aquarists will find the Space EKO+ most valuable for periodic water polishing before guests arrive or after heavy maintenance stirs up debris. For this role, stack the media baskets in this order from bottom to top: 10 ppi foam pad, 20 ppi foam pad, fine filtration pad (felt, floss, or batting), and a high-quality activated carbon bag. Run the filter for a full day or overnight, but not longer than 48 hours. This pulls out fine dust and floating particles while removing yellowing pigments, leaving the tank crystal clear.

You can also use the Space EKO+ as a temporary media reactor for chemical media like carbon, Purigen, Pureflow, or Resorb without clogging your main filter rollers or socks.

Conclusion

The Sicce Space EKO+ delivers genuine value for reef aquarists who want a versatile filtration tool. It excels as a water polishing unit, temporary media reactor, or supplemental filter for space-limited setups. The built-in pump, intuitive design, and included media make it ready to use out of the box. If your reefing approach values flexibility and periodic maintenance over continuous primary filtration, this canister filter deserves a place in your arsenal.