External Filter - Is This Right?

[mrlewis1978]

Hi guys

I have an external Fluval filter which came with the tank so im not 100% sure which model it is. It looks similar to a 405. I have noticed that when you stop the filter and re start it for whatever reason (maintenance, changing media etc) when you restart it, it has a much higher output flow. It creates a real current for a few days and then gradual reduces down to what I would call a 'heavy trickle'. I think it is still doing its job as my readings are OK every week when I test the water.

How do I keep the heavy flow going/is it broken/anyone experienced similar?!

Cheers

 

[N0body Of The Goat]

My hunch would be either the position of the cannister or the amount of intake above the water surface is not ideal, or the filter's media/sponges need a rinse in removed tank water to remove debris (might be worth opening up the impeller cavity while "playing" and ensure the impeller shaft magnet is not covered in slime, using something like a cotton bud to wipe inside the cavity).

Are you priming the filter before turning it back on?
Have you tried carefully tilting the filter cannister while turned on to see if there is a build up of bubbles inside the unit?

 

[mrlewis1978]

My hunch would be either the position of the cannister or the amount of intake above the water surface is not ideal, or the filter's media/sponges need a rinse in removed tank water to remove debris (might be worth opening up the impeller cavity while "playing" and ensure the impeller shaft magnet is not covered in slime, using something like a cotton bud to wipe inside the cavity).

Are you priming the filter before turning it back on?
Have you tried carefully tilting the filter cannister while turned on to see if there is a build up of bubbles inside the unit?

Thank you Ghost. I have had to prime it once, the other times it starts automatically. I'm going to give it a clean (in tank water) later. The filter is in the cabinet under the tank which is purpose built so I imagine that's in the right position. The hose is pretty much in the only position it can be due to the length. I'll try tilting it carefully this afternoon.

 

[garyspence84]

I used to have a 305 with a past tank and it used to do this. Air used to get trapped in the top and i think it was just the filter trying to force it out.

As above ^ try tilting the filter slightly to help it along to get the air out.

G

 

[mrlewis1978]

Thank you both. Had it all apart today and cleaned it in tank water - up and running again with a good flow. Fingers crossed it will keep up permanently not for a few days. Will update.