Cracked filter casing

[sdb]

The crack is in the casing just behind the propeller on my AquaClear 300. It's in the corner between the two layers of plastic where the propeller comes up, and it leaks a big steady drip. The filter is not in use yet as I found the crack as I was filling up the filter to prepare to turn it on to start cycling my tank.

Can this crack be fixed? Siliconed? And if so, should I silicone the inside and outside? Thanks for any advice given. How frustrating, especially since the tank is filled with water and ready to go.

 

[downloader]

Is it brand new? bring it back to the store if it is. If not silcon the out side and let dry overnight, good luck

www.bluewhippet.net

 

[sdb]

Sorry, I forgot to say the filter is not new, I bought it used.
Thanks for the info- much cheaper than replacing the filter! Since the silicone is on the outside, can I use any type? Or should I still use aquarium safe stuff? I'd have to buy it at the LFS since our hardware store doesn't carry the right stuff.

 

[beviking]

Personally, I would use aquarium silicone (or stuff from the hardware store w/o mold inhibitors) on the inside and outside. Reason being that the water pressure pushes out. Silicone on the inside would be forced into the crack and be less likely to pull away. Granted there probably isn't enough pressure to seperate it on the outside but I'd rather be safe than sorry.

BTW, the inset plastic (the top layer of plastic were the propeller comes up)can be removed if you pull straight up on it, just in case you didn't know.

HTH

 

[JSchmidt]

Personally, I don't think it's worth it to try to repair the filter. Aquaclears are pretty cheap, and the consequences of the patch giving way are not good. Why take the chance? How much damage would the water do to your room if the tank drained to the depth of the filter intake? Remember, too, the Murphy's law of filter problems: if it's going to fail, it will do so at the worst time (e.g., when you're on vacation for week).

Jim

 

[sdb]

I live in Canada, and to replace the filter from Big Al's online, it would cost me $48. My LFS charges almost $70 for the same thing. I think I'll take the chance of fixing it like bviking suggested, inside and out, and keep an eye on it.
And, like you said, bviking, there is very little water pressure between the pull out piece of plastic and the bottom of the case. I can't pull the crack apart or twist it in any way. Since it's in the corner, I think it'll have more strength there, at least I hope.

I appreciate your valid point, JSchmidt, and if it was cheaper, I would definately buy a new filter. But for now I'll repair this one, and keep my eye out for another used one (without a crack! ) And after the tank is all set up and going, I'll save up and get a new filter for a piece of mind. Until then, I won't be going on any vacations!