Can I changethe charcoal filter for something less restrictive? After a day or two it doesn't allow water flow at same rate and pump begins gurgling.
826077
There are many ways to modify the filter compartments on this unit. I do not know if there is a filter on the market that will replace this one but google some of the biocube DIY filter ideas. The floss filter is really not necessary in a healthy reef system anyway. When I have time the filter and bio balls will be pulled out and replaced with an algae turf scrubber setup and when necessary a small bit of filter floss to help clear cloudy water. Good luck!
826078
Yes... Also most people are completely rearranging the chambers to a more efficient setup. Going with a media basket instead of the bioballs is a much better option (assuming your tank is saltwater)
826079
Yes, I took that and sponges out and just use live rock (I have salt water).
1232464
We had the same problem - evidently we may have waited too long to change the filter and so much pressure built up in the chamber that it ruined the plastic threads in the cap. We had to use some large channel lock pliers to turn the cap out and ruined the threads in the process. We contacted customer support about the problem and they replaced the unit - hope this helps
2120709
I've been using PUR filters for a long time. I don't have any problem with it. After installation, please don't forget to let the water run for the recommended time.May be you have a different issue. Sorry, I don't have a definite answer for youGood luckN.T
610794
The flow is pretty fast for me, much quicker than my last Brita one. There could be something defect with yours.
832638
I had the same problem, the bottom of the filter where the drain is , not tight enough, I had a hard time to tight it self the glass part and also the water drain screw, make sure you do not over tight, could break easy, at least that was the trouble with mine, hopefully that is with yours, I will not buy this type of filter again
833321
I have heard that if the filters aren't replaced regularly the water flow is affected. Not sure if this will help your problem but it's something to consider.
274229
I have had the same issue, unless you need to make another right away - I have learned that if I let it sit for a bit, some of the water dissapates, this minor flaw is not terribly inconvenient but I think the holes need to be bigger on the filter.
1103442
I can see the reason for the long wait. If you're using tap water, there's going to be chlorine. Your charcoal filter will eventually adsorb all the chlorine out of the water, but not right away. The wait is so the Chlorine is completely gone out of the main tank and doesn't kill any of the SafeStart bacteria. The longer you wait, the less Chlorine.
150645
You need to rinse the charcoal filter in cold water before you add it to the tank. It's totally normal.
1493200
I don't believe so. Where I used to live the water flow through the filter would reduce greatly after about a month so I would then go ahead and replace. Where I live now the flow is still strong and it's been about two months but I'll probably go ahead and replace it within the next couple weeks.
97725
as an aside to the previous question. I just looked at the DrinkWell Zen fountain and they show the Charcoal filters as replacements.
212615
Two questions: what kind of filter are you using; and are you sure the selector is switched to allow water to flow through?
1493198
Yes! When the filter reaches its limit, the water flow will diminish almost down to a trickle. If that happens for more than 1 day, it's time to change the filter. Depending upon usage, you may need to change the filter once a month.
756716
I own this and have found to fix must replace the whole unit.... This summer2014 will be our second replacement in two years. It was suggested to me to bypass thus pump and draw water thru. But use a sand filter... Might try that instead
890404
First time user as of yesterday, but, in past use of other filters, I would say the insert fiber wasn't rinsed well enough or you got a "bad" one. I rinsed my 1st filter and made sure it was soaking wet and moved the carbon around while rinsing. Try netting the water surface, remove filter insert, rinse and try again. If this doesn't work, get a new insert and rinse really good before use. Hope this Works for ya' !
938624
Yes I had a similar issue when I changed the filter. Call the sevice and they will help you.
195607
I use filtered water too. I guess the charcoal filter is just to filter out the water from sitting there for a while. Sometimes water that's been sitting a while, even if it's running water, can grow bacteria so the charcoal is a precaution. I'd rather be safe than sorry. I keep my charcoal filter in for 2 months before I change it out. I only have one cat. I also use the foam filter cause sometimes, my long hair magically appears inside the fountain and the foam filter actually traps it from going into the pump.