How to keep pesky snails out of my Emperor 280 ...

[quakermomma]

I've been having a terrible time keeping snails out of my Emperor 280 impellor lately. Just about every five days the filter makes a terrible grinding noise and will completely freeze up if not taken apart and cleaned. There is always a long, pointy snail or two wedged inside. I can't figure out how they're getting in, unless it's when they are small and they slip through the intake screen and then they grow too big. Any of you have ideas on what to do? I've tried a piece of pantyhose over the intake, but it seems to tax the motor and causes a different funny noise. I'd honestly love to be rid of the snails completely, but I'd settle for keeping them out of the pump! Thanks!
-Faith

 

[reiverix]

You could try some course filter foam over the intake. It won't be so hard on the filter flow but might still not be 100% effective. Should make some difference though.

 

[turtlefish]

A prefilter will eliminate the problem. I use window screen or filter floss bags. The reason why you still get them is probably because even though you took them out they probably layed eggs in there and are hatching and growing after your prefilter is on. Just take everything and clean it-make sure theres no eggs left.

 

[quakermomma]

That makes sense - I never thought about the eggs. Just wondering ... where do you put the window screen? Wrapped around the plastic screen at the bottom of the intake pipe? Thanks so much for the help!
-Faith

 

[turtlefish]

Well Im guessing the only way they get in is through the intake tube? The part with slots so yes my screen is wrapped around the intake part.

 

[NJ Devils Fan]

Yea, clean the filter out with piping hot water to kill any snails and eggs that may be in there. Also make sure you clean out the intake tube very well too, little guys might be inthere without you even knowing. As stated, put a prefilter sponge of some kind on the intake so they will no longer be able to crawl in.