Canister filter concerns

**Tobinkinz** · 01-21-2013, 10:26 AM

Hey all,

So we have the chance to switch our 3 big tanks over to canister filters. We currently have HOBs. My biggest concern with the canisters is with them leaking, and consequently flooding the floor and/or draining the tanks. Am I being paranoid? Is there some sort of anti-siphon system we should have in place? Although my understanding is that most of the canisters work on a siphon to get the water to the filter, so not sure how practical that is. We are getting Rena/Filstar XP filters.

Thanks!

Sabra

**Cliff** · 01-21-2013, 10:34 AM

I think you may be worrying a little too much.

I have been using canister filters for years without any major problems. If you stick with a good quality brand name and maintain it properly, you should have years of worry free use. Good choice on the Rena XP filters. I really like mine.

When/if canister filters leak, it will usally be caused by seal failing and it would not be a fast enough leak to drain your tank without you first noticing a little water on the floor. I have my XP filter sitting in a rubber maid tote in my stand, just in case it does leak the water is contained.

**Katt** · 01-21-2013, 11:29 AM

Agree with Cliff.
I`ve used canister filter`s sence 1996 and never had a bad leak.
Just a small one after years of use, the rings do need to be replaced.
Am running a Eheim 2224 thats 8 soon 9 years old, still not leaking.
But I have just odered new part`s and ring`s. Going to replace every ring soon, need it or not. ( pease of mind )
Love my Eheim`s best buy for money imo.
I`ve also had afew of the Fluval`s and there a good canister filter.
Not tryed the Rena, but just wantèd to say it`s safe to use canister filter`s.

**Lady Hobbs** · 01-21-2013, 11:54 AM

There is no more reason to think a canister will leak than a HOTB will leak. In fact, I had a leak on a HOTB.

**Tobinkinz** · 01-21-2013, 12:01 PM

Thanks so much for the reassurance everyone. I figured I was being a bit paranoid; good to hear my fears of flooding are unwarranted! :)

I had the thought of putting the canister in something to contain any leaks, sounds like its not a bad idea.

Thanks again! Looking forward to our new filters!

Sabra

**ScottishFish** · 01-21-2013, 12:41 PM

What size of tanks are you wanting canisters on? Also what exact models you looking at?

**Lady Hobbs** · 01-21-2013, 01:01 PM

"We are getting Rena/Filstar XP filters." Tank sizes not mentioned.

**jeffs99dime** · 01-21-2013, 01:04 PM

I've also had several canisters and never any problems with leaking, knock on wood.

**Tobinkinz** · 01-21-2013, 02:32 PM

Getting the xp3(L) for the 55, and xp2(M) for the 20 and the 45. 55 and 20 are planted, 45 is not.

**glarior** · 01-21-2013, 04:02 PM

I have had xp1, xp2 and xp3 rena filters... only had one leak and it was my fault. I was changing up some things and I removed the gasket and re-installed it. When I put the lid back on it pinched the gasket and started a slow drip of water. Once I realized I fixed the pinch and it was fine.

These work so great I bought one for my grandma! She loves and it no problems.