Starting a system for an axolotl

[Suzgrif]

I am not a neophyte on aquarium, but have never had an axolotl. we have recently moved from Florida to South Carolina (brr). We have limited space in our new habitat so I have decided to get a 20 long. I like a canister filter, and read on a website of a breeder in Florida that he uses a fluval and flow tamer bar. I have looked at a mesh top which should fit my aquarium - made by Zilla that is 30x12 and has a hinged opening: https://www.amazon.com/Zilla-Reptile-Screen-Hinged-8-Inch/dp/B000VB138G/ref=sr_1_22?dchild=1&keywords=aquarium+screen+cover+29+gallon&qid=1608463591&s=pet-supplies&sr=1-22&th=1#customerReviews
ive decided on the screen because it would probably allow for HOB filter or a canister filter and a flow disperser. But the opening looks like it would be 8” square and may be too big for the safety for the axolotl’s safety from jumping. even tho I live in SC, we like our home very cool, I would like to keep the tank cool with fans, so mesh top. During the winter we keep our home about 65, but summer about 72-73.
my questions are: 1) is a canister filter overkill with the flow? I am looking at a Eheim 250.
2) can we keep cool enough in summer?
3) do you think tge axolotl could jump out of the mesh top or should I get a simple one then make holes in it for the accessories?
thanks in advance for any help and if I’ve missed anything let me know. Btw, I‘m getting everything in a piecemeal fashion and of course no animal purchased until it’s all ready.

SuzanGriffis

 

[Calgarycoppers]

1 - Canister on a 20g L would depend on its rating - if its for up to 40 ish g you should be able to baffle enough for the 20 long
2 - Most people can - some have a few weeks of rough time with A/C or ice bottles needed around the clock then the rest of the year is fine
3 - I would buy egg crate from the hardware store - its a light cover for florescent lights and can be cut to fit

 

[Suzgrif]

1 - Canister on a 20g L would depend on its rating - if its for up to 40 ish g you should be able to baffle enough for the 20 long
2 - Most people can - some have a few weeks of rough time with A/C or ice bottles needed around the clock then the rest of the year is fine
3 - I would buy egg crate from the hardware store - its a light cover for florescent lights and can be cut to fit

I’ve purchased an Eheim 150. It has a spray bar, but Eheim makes one that is supposedly better than the one that comes with the filter. I think it’ll br enough, but I have time.
the egg crate sounds smart. Thank you.