Are HOB filters any good for smaller tanks?

[yearofthenick]

I've got a 20g right now with a 55g rated hob pushing 250gph. Is that good enough? I ask also because the pump inside it is grinding like the dickens... I can hear it in the next room. I tried reseating the pump but it still sounds bad... like there are rocks inside the pump just bouncing around the fan. I spent $60 on it so it's pretty cheap but I don't know if this is the norm or not to have loud pumps on HOB's.

 

[rigdon87]

the aqua clear 70 or 110 are pretty good and you could also turn them into a refugium if you wanted. about the impeller it prolly has sand or somthing in it and you prolly shoud take it out and clean it.

 

[mie]

Sounds like a busted impellar shaft. you can buy replacement parts for certain ones.