Slight leak on Fluval 205

**Strider199** · 11-27-2012, 01:15 AM

After a routine water change (I turn off my 2 filters during this), I noticed some water coming out of my cabinet. I opened it up and noticed that my Fluval 205 filter was trickling some water from the side where one of the clamps are. I unplugged it and put it in a bucket. I unplugged the intake and exit hoses and carefully removed the top. The o-ring looks ok but I cleaned it and the seat of the filter carefully in case there was any crud present. I closed it all back up and started it again. There was no problem getting the filter to start. But the trickle was still present.
I read on line that a small amount of Vaseline applied to the o-ring may help seal the filter but I haven't tried that yet. Wondering if some one had tried that and what results they had.
I plan on checking the local shop for a new o-ring come tomorrow and for now I will just have my HOB running.
Why do things like this always happen when the stores are closed?

**Cliff** · 11-27-2012, 01:20 AM

LOL, Murphy's law

I have tried using Vasoline on the main seal of my XP2 when it had started to leak. It did work alright, but I soon after replaced the seal with a new one

**Lady Hobbs** · 11-27-2012, 01:23 AM

I use vasoline on my o-rings simply to make it easier to open.

**Strider199** · 11-27-2012, 01:24 AM

Thanks for the quick reply Cliff.

So the Vasoline did not hurt the fish or BB in the tank/filter?

**Cliff** · 11-27-2012, 01:28 AM

I've never noticed any bad effects. I don't over do it either.

Just use a good amount to cover all the surfaces of the seal, place the seal in its place, clean of any excess, and replace the cover.

**Strider199** · 11-27-2012, 01:28 AM

Originally Posted by Lady Hobbs

I use vasoline on my o-rings simply to make it easier to open.

After your post Lady Hobbs and Cliffs I have my answer.

Thanks all, I'll give it a try for the evening and hopefully find a new seal tomorrow.

Great site!

**Strider199** · 12-03-2012, 11:49 PM

The vasoline applied to that o-ring did the trick that evening, thanks again people.
I finally found a new o-ring this weekend and put it on. What a difference it makes in the way the top locks down. I didn't know how loose my original one was until I installed the new one and locked the top down.
I will get myself another new one to have in stock in case one day years from now, I find myself in the same position. A leaky cannister filter after all the local stores have closed.
I really appreciated the assistance Cliff and Lady Hobbs. Thanks.