Yet Another Noisy Aquaclear

I have an Aquaclear 50 that's a little over a year old. I maintained it regularly, disassembling and cleaning out the motor assembly every three months.

it's been noisy for quite a few months now. I've tried tweaking the adjustment on the bottom (changing the filter's angle against the tank), cleaning out the motor assembly, putting vaseline on the impeller shaft, and changing the impeller. The most that all this has done is to reduce it from very noisy to pretty noisy.

The only things left I could do are to change the shaft--I'm hesitant to do so because I don't know if that would accomplish anything--or to replace the whole motor assembly.

The issue isn't the lid--the noise does not change with the lid removed.

Is it worth it to change the shaft, or is that likely just throwing good money after bad? Is it worth it to buy a new motor assembly, or once I start spending that much should I just get a whole new filter--and if so, do I replace it with a totally different filter (maybe a C2)?

Tank is 23g.

 

Unfortunately I'm not sure what else you could do to fix it. I'm fairly certain you have covered all of your bases here. Should you decide that it is too loud for your tastes, I would honestly just purchase a new filter instead of trying to fix the current one.

 

Well, it works, at least. But when Seachem comes out with a lower-capacity Tidal, I'm there!

 

Aquaclears never become truly quiet. You have done all tricks to get it as quiet as possible. If it still really bothers you, I would suggest other filter types. Fluval makes a U Series that would meet your needs. Otherwise, keep fingers crossed for a smaller Tidal (they have to be my new favorite)!

 

Except that it was quiet for the first 9-10 months I had it. Then the rattling started.

 

maybe check the rubber o ring? if you have the energy and will, try to really dissect it and try and figure out exactly where the noise is coming from and then start replacing things. Problem is that this can add up if you swing and miss....

 

It was the impeller shaft. Look how worn it was:

 

that will do it...

 

I realize you solved your problem but I was wondering, since you like the idea of the Seachem, if you have seen the Grech CBG-800?

 

Grech CBG-800

Isn't that a UV Sterilizer, not a filter?

 

Isn't that a UV Sterilizer, not a filter?

From the Ebay seller's add:

The Grech CBG-Series Hang-On Back UV Filter comes with a diverse and unique design. While being suitable for freshwater and saltwater aquariums, its style is a “Hang-On Back,” making it convenient for daily use. The filter is beautifully crafted to allow a simple installation and silent operation. Water flow can be control accord to your aquarium needs. The CBG-Series has a biological and mechanical filtration and comes with active carbon and bio media. The CBG-Series also features a 5W UV Sterilizer which can be turned on and off. The UV Sterilizer helps in eliminating algae, keeping aquarium water clear, and aids in the health of aquatic animals from free-floating parasites. The controllable surface skimmer can reduce surface oil from your aquarium tank.