MissMTS

Yesterday I moved around my stock in my 80g and 135g due to some recent aggression in my 135. During the process of removing decor and netting fish, a ton of sand was kicked up and then my filter (AC 110) started making this horrendous noise and stopped working. I have tried cleaning it, and I have not been successful fixing it. I am looking to replace it next week (I have another filter running on the tank), but I am wondering if there is a way to keep this from happening. Would a pre-filter sponge work?

Jaysee

Sure, a prefilter sponge would help. I would turn off the filter while doing stuff like that, though.

MissMTS

Thanks Jaysee Yup, I realized that I should have turned it off AFTER the fact, lol. You live you learn

btate617

Het Kate you can also try getting a new impellor for it for $10-15.

Normally the sand will ruin the impellor not the whole filter, just a thought.


Brian

David C

Definitely try replacing the impeller, usually works like a charm. I cut my intake tubes short to keep the sand from getting in there accidentally, I haven't had any problems since I've done this.

Dave

harpua2002

I use an Aquaclear media sponge to make my own prefilters. It's easy to cut it to fit the intake, then an x-shaped hole in the middle allows it to slide on over the intake. And I definitely agree about replacing the impeller before buying a new filter, it will probably save you a ton of money.

MissMTS

Thanks Brian, Dave, and Harpua Two questions:

1) Where can I get a replacement impeller?

2) How do I open up my aquaclear filter so that I can replace everything?

btate617

The black motor housing will rotate off of the filter housing.

Any LFS worth much should carry replacement parts.


Brian

harpua2002

Big Al's has pages of replacement parts if you can wait on an order.