Canister filter maintenance

[Flipside]

My canister filter's flow has been dropping lately. Gonna clean it this weekend but not sure if I should replace the media or just rinse it. Running a Fluval 407 on a 75g with a mix of sponges and bio rings. Any tips?

[rodent1]

Rinsing the media in tank water is usually enough unless it's falling apart. The bio rings can last years if you're gentle. How often do you usually clean it? I do mine every 3 months on a 55g with similar setup.

[Zenix9]

My canister filter's flow has been dropping lately. Gonna clean it this weekend but not sure if I should replace the media or just rinse it. Running a Fluval 407 on a 75g with a mix of sponges and bio rings. Any tips?

If the sponges are compressed or torn, replace them. Otherwise, just rinse in old tank water. Also check the impeller for gunk, that's a common flow killer.

[brooklet]

Yep, impeller's sketchy when it gets dirty. I've had to clean mine twice this year already. Also, make sure the hoses aren't clogged with gunk. My 407's hoses were half blocked last time I checked.

[honeybuzz]

Agree with everyone here. Regular maintenance is key. I'd add that you should check the O-rings too. A dry or cracked O-ring can cause leaks after reassembly. Had that happen once and it was a mess.

[Flipside]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll check the impeller and hoses too. Didn't even think about the O-rings.

[trio]

My canister's been weird lately too. Flow's fine but it's making a rattling noise. Think it's the impeller? Got an Eheim 350 on a 40g breeder.

[Zenix9]

My canister's been weird lately too. Flow's fine but it's making a rattling noise. Think it's the impeller? Got an Eheim 350 on a 40g breeder.

Probably the impeller shaft or debris stuck in it. Take it apart and clean it. If the noise continues, the impeller might be worn out.

[coralflow]

I've had my Fluval 307 for 2 years now. Only cleaned it twice. Flow's still strong. Maybe I'm just lucky.

[realtide]

Twice in 2 years seems low. You might wanna check it sooner rather than later. Clogs can creep up on you.