The lid on my filter is difficult to close and leaks near the motor head clips.

We recommend a thorough cleaning of the motor head O-ring and applying Fluval silicone lubricant (#A325). It’s normal for the O-ring to require replacement after a few years of use. Ensure that the O-ring is inserted correctly into the motor head groove, and that the motor head is properly positioned, aligning the power cord with the notch on the canister.

How do I prevent baby fish from being pulled into my filter?

Make an incision in the center of a coarse, open cell foam filter block and insert the siphon tube strainer into it. We recommend rinsing the block every 2 weeks to ensure proper filtration performance.

Can I connect an inline heater model to my filter?

No. Fluval canister filters use ribbed flexible hosing, which is not ideal for installing such equipment.

Why do I have difficulty restarting my canister filter after cleaning it?

First, check your impeller and impeller shaft as it’s possible either of these are damaged and need to be replaced, or are very dirty and require cleaning. It’s also possible the impeller cover has not been reattached correctly. Finally, verify that the filter has been properly primed: always ensure that the filter output is above the water surface when priming.

I’ve noticed decreased performance and the need for increased maintenance frequency on my canister filter. Am I doing something wrong?

This usually indicates an increased load on your filter due to either the growth of your fish, the recent introduction of additional fish, increased waste production (leftover food, excrement, etc.), or clogged filter media in need of replacement.

I replaced the impeller of my canister filter and noticed a small leak coming from the handle when shutting down. What should I do?

The leak is most likely from the canister O-ring. Before you purchase a replacement, remove and clean it with warm water. Thoroughly wipe the receiving groove in the filter with a soft cloth. Apply Fluval silicone lubricant (#A325) to the O-ring.

How does head height affect filter output performance?

07 series filters are closed re-circulation filter systems: head height has no real impact on performance. The length of tubing and the types of filter media are key factors affecting filter output performance. We recommend never exceeding the specified vertical distance in your instruction manual as this will cause the filter to exceed the maximum head pressure value, which could cause the filter to leak and fail.

I change the carbon in my filter every couple of weeks. Is this too often?

No. It’s better (and easier) to prevent odours rather than having to remove them once they’ve accumulated. Some fish are messy eaters, or are more prone to producing large amounts of waste, so prevention is key.

Do you have any tips for fixing common filtration issues?

I found a fish stuck to the intake of my filter. Is the flow too strong?

You don’t need to be concerned about your filter being too powerful for use with healthy fish, many of whom swim in natural habitats with much stronger currents. If a fish became stuck to the intake of your filter, it’s likely that the fish was already sick. Take note that you can adjust the filter output strength to suit your particular fish species.

I just purchased a Fluval canister filter for my well-stocked tank. Is there additional media required, other than what came with the filter?

Fluval Total Clear will crystallize the water and rapidly remove organics, providing better overall water quality. Also consider adding a coarse pre-filter media at the bottom of the filter to support improved long-term performance.

Why is my canister filter emitting bursts of fine air bubbles on my aquarium?

FRESHWATER: It’s important to perform regular filter maintenance (media rinsing and replacement) to prevent media from compacting, which can result in air accumulation. Also make sure to verify the inlet rubber hose connector that attaches to the siphon tube, which does dry out over time and becomes hard and non-flexible, thus requiring periodic replacement.

SALTWATER: This is probably due to your filter taking in the fine air bubbles introduced to the aquarium by protein skimmers. Make sure to use an effective bubble trap at the skimmer output or within the sump to prevent this from happening.

How do I know when it’s time to change my filter media?

Why is the motor of my canister filter making a low, rumbling noise?

Noise originating from the motor suggests that the impeller assembly needs to be replaced. As the only moving part in your filter that operates 24 hours/day, the impeller does eventually wear and is therefore not covered under warranty. Also, verify that the filter has been properly primed (always ensure the filter output is above the water surface when priming), as this will help ensure trapped air is not the cause of the noise.

Can I place Bio-Foam Max filter pads on both sides of the Pre-Filter Cartridge?

No. Due to their shape, Bio-Foam Max filter pads can only be inserted on the left side of the Pre-Filter Cartridge, as the first filter media.

What are the correct steps for disconnecting the AquaStop valve?

How do I maintain the impeller assembly?

How should I clean the intake stem and strainer?

What’s the best way to clean the ribbed hosing?

How do I clean the primer assembly and cover?

Do you have any motorhead gasket maintenance tips?

How do I maintain the AquaStop O-ring gaskets?

The lid on my filter is difficult to close and leaks near the motor head clips.

We recommend a thorough cleaning of the motor head O-ring and applying Fluval silicone lubricant (#A325). It’s normal for the O-ring to require replacement after a year of use. Ensure that the O-ring is inserted correctly into the motor head groove and that the motor head is properly positioned.

Can I safely reduce the output of my 07 series canister filter?

The output flow of Fluval 07 series canister filters can be safely reduced by up to 50%. In order to do this, move the white top lever of the AquaStop valve away from the red bottom lever, up to an angle of 45 degrees.

I’ve noticed a white, slimy film on the rubber hose connectors of my canister filter. Is this dangerous for my fish?

This white, slimy film is bio-film, and it is harmless. We recommend cleaning canister filter hosing and rubber hose connectors as part of normal maintenance to help mitigate the growth of bio-film.