OK to submerse an emperor 400?

[rdmpe]

I got an emperor 400 from my neighbor for free. It is heavily crusted with mineral deposits. I read on the marineland web site that the motor is epoxy sealed. This is most likely the same type of seal as is used on powerheads. So I think it will be OK to soak the whole thing in a vinegar solution.

Anyone ever submerse an emperor filter? Problems or no?

[aquariaddictus]

I would try to clean it without submersing the motor housing - the vinegar might compomise the epoxy. You can certainly fill the inside up with vinegar solution and let the deposits dissolve (Don't soak the impellor in acid, tho) One way to get the outside of the housing would be to lay it somewhere (in a tub, on the driveway) and cover it with rags/washcloths, and soak them with the vinegar, while trying to avoid the motor housing. That's pretty much the way I cleaned up all my hand-me-downs.
hth
judy

[Tiger15]

All HOB motors are epoxy sealed similar to power head and the impeller sit directly inside a well within the motor so it must be tightly sealed to prevent electrical shock. Theoretically HOBs can be operated under submerged condition and the motor can be submerged despite advice against it by manufacturers.

[andruboz]

helps if you warm up the vinegar too. [my experience]