help make filter work again?

Question

my filter stop working. i think it might suck some sand in it idk. so i need some help to make it work again

Answer 1

The first thing you need to do is very lighly clean the filter media & place it in the tank so it stays alive. Then get a bottle brush, disassemble the filter and you will usually find something stringy around the impeller. Make sure this area as well as all others are cleaned well and cleared of all items. Put the filter media back in, fill w/ aged aquarium water & you should be good to go. Sometimes the motor breaks & other things happen though that's rare. I have several Hagen filters & submersible heaters (visitherm also made by Hagen) that are over 20 years old with almost constant use. (There have been about 5 years over the last 35+ when I have not had aquariums set up.)

Answer 2

If its a power filter and it had some signs of life but wont work, clean out the impeller housing. The impeller is the fan shaped part that turns to draw water in. Mareline filters often haave impeller problems. Usually this is caused by excessive dirt and algae buildup inside the impeller housing. It's a good idea with any power filter to vigorously rinse out the impeller housing every time you change your filter. I cleaned filters yesterday and had to unstick the impeller on a Penguin and an AquaClear. It ususally happens on older filters that have had a change for this are to get somewhat gummed up.



If you are referring to somethin other than a power filter that hangs on your tank there are too many kinds to get you advice unless I know the brand.

Answer 3

Filtration equipment should be periodically taken apart to inspect and clean which will help lengthen the life of the filter and keep it running efficiently.

I would take it apart and soak it in vinegar to help remove contaminants, calcium deposits (if filter is for a saltwater set-up).

Answer 4

There are so makes and types of filters give me a name and i will help as all filters function differently