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Filter airlock issues: Help

Posted: Mon Jun 16, 2025 9:02 pm
by zeno4d
Having trouble with my filter making weird noises, sounds like an airlock issue. It's a Fluval 307, been running for about 6 months. Tank is 40 gallons, stocked with a few tetras and some Corydoras. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. Any ideas how to fix this?

Re: Filter airlock issues: Help

Posted: Mon Jun 16, 2025 9:11 pm
by universitykid
Airlock issues are common with canister filters. First, make sure the intake and outtake tubes are free of debris. Check the impeller for any blockages too. Sometimes tilting the filter slightly can help release trapped air. Have you done any recent maintenance on it?

Re: Filter airlock issues: Help

Posted: Mon Jun 16, 2025 9:37 pm
by galenys
Yeah, airlocks can be a pain. I've had this happen with my Eheim. Try priming it a few times to force the air out. If that doesn't work, you might need to disassemble the filter and check the seals. Also, make sure the water level in the tank isn't too low.

Re: Filter airlock issues: Help

Posted: Mon Jun 16, 2025 10:24 pm
by fable95
universitykid wrote: Mon Jun 16, 2025 9:11 pm Airlock issues are common with canister filters. First, make sure the intake and outtake tubes are free of debris. Check the impeller for any blockages too. Sometimes tilting the filter slightly can help release trapped air. Have you done any recent maintenance on it?
That's solid advice. I'd also add that running the filter dry for too long can cause this. Maybe double-check the priming process in the manual.

Re: Filter airlock issues: Help

Posted: Mon Jun 16, 2025 11:00 pm
by Lacuna
Had the same issue last week. Took the whole thing apart, cleaned the impeller, and it's been quiet since. Might wanna give that a shot if nothing else works.

Re: Filter airlock issues: Help

Posted: Mon Jun 16, 2025 11:20 pm
by zeno4d
Thanks for the tips, everyone. Gonna try cleaning the impeller and tilting the filter first. Will update if it works.

Re: Filter airlock issues: Help

Posted: Tue Jun 17, 2025 12:06 am
by galenys
Lacuna wrote: Mon Jun 16, 2025 11:00 pm Had the same issue last week. Took the whole thing apart, cleaned the impeller, and it's been quiet since. Might wanna give that a shot if nothing else works.
Yep, impeller issues are often the culprit. Also, if you're using a spray bar, make sure it's not clogged. That can cause weird pressure changes.

Re: Filter airlock issues: Help

Posted: Tue Jun 17, 2025 12:41 am
by universitykid
Another thing to consider is the O-rings. If they're worn out, they might not be sealing properly, letting air in. Replacing them is cheap and easy.

Re: Filter airlock issues: Help

Posted: Tue Jun 17, 2025 1:39 am
by fable95
Good point about the O-rings. Also, if you've recently moved the filter or changed the tubing, there might be a small leak somewhere. A bit of food-safe lubricant on the seals can help too.