Sand ruining HOB filters?

[FishieMomma]

Hi all. I've gone through several HOB filters on my 55. I use Aqueon and Aquaclear filters - one of each and both rated for a 55 gallon. So presumably that's double what's needed, filtration-wise.

I do use aquarium sand in my tank. I thought it settled well before turning my filters back on, but would using HOB filters with sand be the problem? I'd switch to canister filters if I could afford it. On the other hand these filters are lasting around 6 months each!

Thoughts?

 

[gilpi]

If there's a way for sand to get into the impeller yes, it will wear it down

 

[gilpi]

Do they start making noise?

 

[FishieMomma]

Not usually. I just walk by and notice that one has stopped working.

 

[gilpi]

That's strange, when the sand wears the impeller, it usually starts by rattling and getting noisy. Maybe you have another issue? Have you taken out the motor to see if it works on its own, disconnected from the filter?

 

[FishieMomma]

No. Good idea. Next time I'll do that.

 

[gilpi]

You could simply have debris stuck in the impeller keeping it from running, which could also cause the motor to fail but one step at the time
Good luck

 

[FishieMomma]

Sigh. Thanks.