HOB filter runs fine for a short time, then just dribbles

I have a Tetra 30-60 filter that is being confusing. When plugged in it runs perfectly well, for a while. Then within a few hours I go check on the fish, and that filter is barely dribbling.

I have already taken it out, cleaned it, checked to make sure the intake tube is clear, and taken out and scrubbed the impeller.

When it's reduced its flow to a dribble, if I unplug it and then plug it in again, it starts right back up with a nice strong flow.

But then the next time I come back, it's barely dribbling again.

What would cause this, and is there a simple inexpensive fix for it?

 

Is the filter media clogged up?

 

How many amps does it draw?
Is it possible you have overloaded the circuit?

Try unplugging anything else in your aquarium and see if it loses power then. If it does, at least you've ruled that out.

 

You're not running a prefilter on the intake tube are you?

 

Take all the filter media out, along with the intake sponge if you're using one (keep them wet) and see if the problem continues. I suspect you need a new filter, but this will help determine if that's the case.

 

Is the filter media clogged up?

Problem solved: It was the extension tube not connecting securely. I removed it and connected the strainer directly to the intake assembly. The filter has been running fine ever since.

One of my cats had some fun batting around the leaky extension tube for a while. He may have knocked it under or behind some furniture, because I haven't seen it in days. Good riddance to it.

 

Problem solved: It was the extension tube not connecting securely. I removed it and connected the strainer directly to the intake assembly. The filter has been running fine ever since.

One of my cats had some fun batting around the leaky extension tube for a while. He may have knocked it under or behind some furniture, because I haven't seen it in days. Good riddance to it.

Glad it was something fairly easy! Easy to fix...maybe not to discover