Penn-Plax Cascade 150 Hang-On Aquarium Filter, 132 L, Adjustable Flow

Penn-Plax Cascade 150 Power Hang-On Filter is an aquarium filter designed to circulate and filter water at 150 GPH (568 L/h) for aquariums up to 35 gallons (132.5 L).

• For freshwater and saltwater aquariums — use the filter with either type of setup.
• Adjustable flow knob — increase or reduce water flow, including during feeding.
• Disposable, double-sided cartridge with activated carbon and Poly Fiber Floss — combines chemical filtration with particulate capture.
• Separate Bio-Sponge cartridge — supports colonization of anaerobic bacteria independently of the first-stage media.
• Bio-Falls system — enhances water oxygenation and aids with removing ammonia and nitrate.

Keeping aquarium water moving and filtering out unwanted material calls for a filter suited to the tank and the type of water it holds. The Cascade 150 hangs on the aquarium and provides adjustable flow, with filtration components designed to address floating particles, discoloration, odors, and water contaminants. Its features make it useful for routine aquarium filtration as well as adjusting water flow when feeding.

What aquarium size and water type is the Cascade 150 for?

The Cascade 150 is designed for aquariums up to 35 gallons (132.5 L) and is suitable for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums. It pumps water at 150 GPH (568 L/h), providing circulation through the filter for tanks within that capacity. Its hang-on configuration keeps the filter mounted at the aquarium edge, while the lift tube adjusts to reach into the aquarium.

• Maximum aquarium capacity: 35 gallons (132.5 L).
• Lift tube range: 7 in (17.8 cm) minimum to 10.5 in (26.7 cm) maximum.

How do the Cascade 150’s filtration stages work?

The filter uses a disposable, double-sided media cartridge containing activated carbon and Poly Fiber Floss. The cartridge traps floating particulate matter, removes harmful chemicals and toxins, clears discoloration, and reduces foul odors in aquarium water. A separate Bio-Sponge cartridge provides another filtration component, independent of the first-stage media, and optimizes colonization of anaerobic bacteria.

The Bio-Falls system adds another part to the filtration process by enhancing water oxygenation and aiding with the removal of ammonia and nitrate. Together, these components give the filter distinct media for capturing floating material and supporting the stated chemical and biological filtration functions.

• First-stage media: disposable, double-sided cartridge.
• Cartridge materials: activated carbon and Poly Fiber Floss.
• Additional biological filtration: independent Bio-Sponge cartridge.

How does the filter mount, and can its flow be adjusted?

The Cascade 150 uses a hang-on design for mounting at the aquarium edge, and its adjustable flow knob lets you increase or decrease water flow as needed. Lowering or changing the flow can be useful during feeding, while the lift tube’s adjustable length accommodates the stated range. The filter measures 6.75 in (17.1 cm) high by 7.25 in (18.4 cm) wide by 4.75 in (12.1 cm) deep, so compare these dimensions with the available space at your aquarium.

• Flow control: adjustable knob.
• Overall dimensions: 6.75 in (17.1 cm) H × 7.25 in (18.4 cm) W × 4.75 in (12.1 cm) D.

The Penn-Plax Cascade 150 is suited to aquarium keepers who want a hang-on filter for freshwater or saltwater tanks within its 35-gallon capacity, with adjustable flow and multiple filtration components. Its fit is defined by the tank capacity, lift-tube range, and overall dimensions.