Equipment Review and Discussion :: Fluval filters

[gameragirl]

I am on my 3rd Fluval 3+ filter in about 3 years now, like using 1 per year. The previous 2 just died after about a year. Has anyone had this happen like that? The filter works really well, so that's why I went and got another one, and actually I guess not that expensive. I just thought it's maybe something that should last longer..... And they were cleaned every time I cleaned the tank, so I don't think they died because of being clogged or anything.

[mikee]

What gph Fluval do you have. Is it a canister? I have not had that kind of trouble with my 405 and I have had one for a year or so. Fluval would love to hear from you. I also have Marineland and I have had one for over 15 years. One is so old that it has a put oil inl it. I would contact the pet store or Flulval. --

[RESnTX]

I recently had an issue with my fluval 305 and sent an email to fluval customer service (found it somewhere on their website). They sent me a reply within 24 hours. That was the second great experience I had with their customer service team.

[mikee]

game girl -- I think that if you are on your third Fluval in three years, that is a bit much. Which Fluval do you have? How are stacking the foam, charcoal and ceramic rings? If you are in question about how, there should be directions in the manual. Here I am making an assumption that you have a canister???

[steve]

A Fluval 3+ is an internal filter... a bit underpowered for a turtle tank. How often are you cleaning the impeller and impeller well?

[marisa]

What's the warranty on it? After 3 years of the same thing, I'd try for a new one from Fluval.

The Plus series filters really aren't that good, though (but the 2+ isn't that bad for small tanks with hatchlings). How big is your tank? Buying the same filter, even though it's not that expensive, adds up. You'd probably do better just buying a better filter (canister) over the long term.

[gameragirl]

I have a 55 gal tank, and keep the tank pretty clean. I also have a double power filter, and with the combo, it seems to work pretty well. It's just that the motor doesn't last. I think next time it goes I will try something more high tech, and a bit bigger.
Thanks everyone.....

[amsude]

We were trying to get a used Fluval 404 up and running and finally didn't give up but want the turtle in his big tanks so went out and bought the Fluval 4 + and the 3+. I do hope they work even if it is for a year we need some good news.

[mikee]

am-de -- You should consentrate ont the gph of your filter. The filter/pump should pump at least 5 times the water volume that you have in the tank. A 300 or 350 gph would do just fine for a 55 gallon tank. -- Good Luck!

[meltedspork]

I have 2 55g tanks and I have a Fluval 305 filter for each, they work great for me. I've had one for over 3 years and the other for over 2 years, never had any problems. One of them gets a bit noisy after cleaning it, but after a few days it seems to work itself out... air bubbles maybe? Not really sure.