External filter troubleshooting

[DarkHive]

My external filter's been making a weird grinding noise for the past two days. It's a Fluval 307, about a year old. Water flow seems reduced, but the media's clean. Any ideas what's up?

[stormbolt]

Sounds like the impeller might be clogged or worn out. Had a similar issue with my Eheim last month. You try taking it apart yet?

[bluemuse]

Yeah, impeller's usually the culprit. Also check if the intake tube's got gunk. My canister was acting sketchy till I cleaned the tubes.

[DarkHive]

Sounds like the impeller might be clogged or worn out. Had a similar issue with my Eheim last month. You try taking it apart yet?

Not yet, gonna crack it open tonight. Anything specific I should look for?

[stormbolt]

Look for cracks in the impeller housing or debris stuck in the blades. Sometimes a tiny bit of sand or plant matter gets in there and messes with the rotation.

[bluemuse]

And if the impeller's fine, maybe the motor shaft's dirty. A q-tip dipped in vinegar can clean it up real quick. Just don't force anything.

[stormbolt]

And if the impeller's fine, maybe the motor shaft's dirty. A q-tip dipped in vinegar can clean it up real quick. Just don't force anything.

Yep, vinegar works wonders. Just rinse it well after, don't wanna mess with the water chemistry.

[DarkHive]

Thanks for the tips, guys. I'll report back after I've checked the impeller and shaft.