old vortex diatom filter

F

fishorama

AC Members
Jun 28, 2006
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SF Bay area, CA
I recently found our 20+ year old vortex filter in the basement. No hoses but it looks otherwise complete. It was a PITA to set up as I recall but I've read newer ones have some kind of shut off valve.

It hasn't been used for at least 12 years. Do you think it's worth the price of hoses to try & use? Should it be oiled somewhere? Is there a way to see if the motor works without actually being set up or wrecking it?
 
Use 3-in-1 Oil or Miracle Oil and oil the one or two oil holes. They are usually indicated on the motor with arrows. If not, look up the model via Google. There should be a manual online at least.
 
Yep, once oiled just plug in the motor head to see if impeller spins.If it just hums try to spin the impeller by hand,don't leave plug in too long,motor will get hot.
 
I agree with Nolapete, oil that baby up and see if it works. If the motor spins, you're good to go. Plenty of people use these things forever....I just bought mine, but it's 5 years old as is. I've seen a lot of them, however, and I think the design hasn't really changed at all....ever. I think Vortex sells quick disconnects that you can pipe in, which can be/are purchased separately, so you can still get those.
 
Thanks guys, I didn't want to invest too much $$ or time if it was hopeless.

Thanks for the links, Bob. We used it after water changes or major rearranging especially with UGF. Got all the particulates out & made the water sparkle!

My husband was the main setter upper, he has larger thumbs & more patience. When he got too busy for fish helping we quit using it. It was our first major equipment investment.

I wonder if the diatom powder is ok to use, it's been closed up pretty well.
 
did they stop making Vortex Diatom filters??? I've been looking to get one but every site I go to says sold out or they want well above retail price :(
 
fishorama said:
Thanks guys, I didn't want to invest too much $$ or time if it was hopeless.

Thanks for the links, Bob. We used it after water changes or major rearranging especially with UGF. Got all the particulates out & made the water sparkle!

My husband was the main setter upper, he has larger thumbs & more patience. When he got too busy for fish helping we quit using it. It was our first major equipment investment.

I wonder if the diatom powder is ok to use, it's been closed up pretty well.
Click to expand...


The powder should be fine..I have 3 that I still ue today..all over 20 yrs old...nothing matches their ability to clear up everything in the water.
 
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