Secondnature Whisper Power Filter - Grinding noise

rainbowcharmer

rainbowcharmer

AC Members
Jul 30, 2007
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East Coast, USA
I'm assuming the impeller needs to be replaced. The filter works fine but makes a horrible grinding noise. I've cleaned it twice just in case there was something stuck in there, but it still makes the noise. I can't see anything wrong with it, but the grinding is going to make me crazy, so I want to replace the impeller.

Problem is - I do not know which model I have. On the top it says Secondnature Whisper Power Filter, and I know the guy who owned it before used it to filter the 75 gal tank that I bought from him, but that doesn't necessarily tell me which one it is either. It's a pretty good sized filter as HOB's go, but how do I figure out which one it is?

Also - where is the best place to purchase a new impeller? PetSmart (my local LFS) does not carry it. I'm assuming I'll need to get it online, but want to be sure I get it from a decent place.

Help?
 
Look at bottom of black motor or housing. Should have the model # on it (J, C, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5).

Before replacing, check black bushing on both end of stainless shaft. If bushing is worn out and became loose, impeller assembly may shake as it rotates. SOmetimes simple application of wrap/teflon onto bushing and jam the bushing into holes may help you with niose.

You said it is still pumping water? If so, try my method if possible before ordering since magnetic impeller seems intact .
 
I think that's teflon tape, available just about anywhere thats sells any sort of plumbing supplies. You can even find it at Wal-Mart. Along with the bushings (unlikely to be the problem) check the shaft and the inside of the impeller for wear. If the shaft is uneven or the inside of the impeller is noticeably larger/loose-fitting on the shaft that's the problem.
Here's one for a decent price and reasonable shipping:
http://cgi.ebay.com/TETRA-IMPELLER-...emQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item2ea66487a0
 
Ah - yes I have teflon tape. I thought this might be something special that I needed to find at the LFS. I will give that a whirl and see what happens. There is some uneven areas on the impeller, so I am probably going to end up with a new one, but we'll give the Teflon tape a try just to see before ordering a new impeller.

Thanks!!
 
toddnbecka said:
I think that's teflon tape, available just about anywhere thats sells any sort of plumbing supplies. You can even find it at Wal-Mart. Along with the bushings (unlikely to be the problem) check the shaft and the inside of the impeller for wear. If the shaft is uneven or the inside of the impeller is noticeably larger/loose-fitting on the shaft that's the problem.
Here's one for a decent price and reasonable shipping:
http://cgi.ebay.com/TETRA-IMPELLER-...emQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item2ea66487a0
Click to expand...
Thans for clearing that up, Todd.
One caution: dont let loose teflon get tangle up with impeller.
 
Well I tried the teflon tape idea - wrapped both ends with a little bit of tape - made sure they were snugly wrapped - and it still makes the grinding noise. I think I am just going to have to replace the impeller. If that doesn't solve it, I don't know what will... It's still running fine, just very very noisy.
 
Hold the old impeller up and look down the inside of the magnet housing. If it's out-of-round the impeller is worn out.
 
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