Aquaclears & Sand

Becca · Aug 21, 2004

Has anyone had a problem with Aquaclear filters and sand getting caught in the motor? I've not had a problem (though I use CaribSea's sand, which is heavier and settles much quicker than the alternatives..) However, one of my LFS owners recommends NOT using Hang-On-Back filters, especially Aquaclears when using sand as a substrate for this reason.

cometcattle · Aug 21, 2004

I have an Aquaclear 200 on 2 of my 10g with sand. No problems.

mwm · Aug 21, 2004

I got a aqua Clear Mini on 5g with sand and a betta

It works fine, my engine has been jammed a few times when ive really stired up the sand tho

325Pilot · Aug 22, 2004

I haven't yet had a problem with it on a biowheel mini on a 10g with sand, but I keep an eye on it and try not to stir it up so much or around the filter, or when I do, I lift the tube up so it's not pulling in new water.

Vip · Aug 22, 2004

I got a AC500 and corel sand in one of my tanks and i havnt had that problem yet but then again my tank is 20" high maybe thats why.

Lenna · Aug 22, 2004

Half my tanks have pool filter sand (2 40gs, a 17g and the 2g betta tank). Every one of these tanks except the betta's has an aquaclear filter. I've had no problem with sand at all, even with the extensions to the intakes attached.

Vip · Aug 22, 2004

Lenna, what type of fish do you have in those tanks because in my canister filter (Witch is also running on the same tank) i do find sand every now and then but i have large cichlids in that tank who fight and push sand everywhere in the water, the only reason why the other one doesnt get sand in it is because its high up i would say.

lizard · Aug 22, 2004

I have HOB filters and sand substrate (yay for sand!). Haven't had any problems with the sand getting into the filter. If some has gotten in there, it must not have caused any problems, 'cause my filters still work :thumbs:

Pamela
aka Married Lizard

Tropjunky · Aug 22, 2004

not used that filter but it sholdn't be a problem as long as ur intanke and outlets aren't too close to the sand

juanveldez · Aug 22, 2004

if it really worries you take a one of the sponge insterts that come with the ACs a razorblade, and a rubberband cut a good peice of the sponge off and then start cutting it down even further till it fits nice to get it to go over teh intake cut a slit in the middle of it and then attach it with a rubber band over the end of the intake. keeps the sand out and allows the water to move through just fine.

Becca · Aug 22, 2004

juanveldez said:
if it really worries you take a one of the sponge insterts that come with the ACs a razorblade, and a rubberband cut a good peice of the sponge off and then start cutting it down even further till it fits nice to get it to go over teh intake cut a slit in the middle of it and then attach it with a rubber band over the end of the intake. keeps the sand out and allows the water to move through just fine.

Doesn't really worry me, but good idea!