New AC50 - Impeller keeps stopping

[A2597]

Hello Hello!
I recently picked up a new AC50, as it seemed like the perfect filter upgrade for my tank. (22gal, wanted slightly oversized and proper filter media, not just a replaceable filter pad).

However, I'm having an issue where the impeller keeps stopping, and I'm trying to figure out "why". This is maybe 2 months old, but I clean it regularly, have it level, have the pre filter on, flow is great when it runs...but it just...keeps stopping. In order to start it I have to remove the impeller/motor and pry the impeller back up (like it gets pushed down to where it can't spin?).

This happens a lot. Sometimes multiple times in a day, sometimes 2-3 days will pass before it happens again. But I know this is *not* normal, and I can't figure out what is causing it!

Any ideas?

 

[Aiken Drum]

This is a known, common issue with this filter.

Either return it as faulty and get a different filter or whenever the impeller gets stuck remove the intake pipe and flick the impeller with something suitable while the impeller is turned on.

 

[A2597]

So all new AC50s are faulty? Or are some good some bad? (Just clarifying if I need to find a different brand, or if it's a luck of the draw issue)

Thank you!

 

[Aiken Drum]

They wouldn't be able to sell them if they were all faulty, but its a common issue and has been for years. Put it down to one of the many poorly built/ poorly designed aquarium products on the market that the manufacturer has no real incentive to fix. Most people will be using them just fine or just living with the problem. Having to give out a few refunds is probably cheaper than solving a problem. If Fluval accept there is an issue it would open them up to having to give out more refunds. Replacing the impeller might solve it, a new filter might work properly. If you are unhappy with the product I wouldn't go out and buy another, but if you can get a replacement in exchange for the faulty one, I'd give it a go.