Equipment Review and Discussion :: Is Buying a Used filter Okay?

[Turk]

Hi I just bought a brand new XP3, which turned out to be used. Assuming that it works fine, should I keep it? (haven't set it up yet in case I want to return it)

[Love of Animals]

If you paid a brand new price then it's not ok. If you paid a used price then it is.

[Turk]

I won a auction on EBay for $100. I was worried it might containment my tank. I'm a little bit of a clean freak XD

[steve]

Considering you don't know how it was used, I would either return it or ask for a partial (but sizable) refund. A new filter would come with new mechanical media too.

[Turk]

I decided to give it a try since everything seemed to be in good shape. My water quality has improved.
I've also informed the seller of the filter for a partial refund
Thank you all for the fast responses.
One last question, what needs maintenance and replacing?

[VeipaCray]

Agreed, if the filter was advertised as new and you got a used one... a refund, return, or exchange is in order.

The filter should be ok. If you put brand new media in, all that's really left is all of the plastic parts + the motor. You can clean that stuff easily.


You'll need bio, mechanical, and chemical media.

Generally speaking, the bio media you rinse monthly.
The mechanical media ... Sponges you clean and reuse. If you're using filter floss... you just replace it.
Chemical - carbon needs to be replaced monthly or Purigen can be cleaned and re-used.

For the filter itself... Make sure the impeller is clean and free of gunk. If the motor starts getting loud, the impeller is usually dirty.
There will be a rubber o-ring between the two canister pieces. Lubricate that o-ring with vaseline from time to time so it doesn't dry out. If it dries out the filter could leak.

This might help...

viewtopic.php?f=9&t=30145

[Turk]

Thank you VeipaCray. You've been very helpful.

[Linus]

I got my XP3 and a Heater for $40 used, and they both work great, but people above have great points.

[VeipaCray]

I got my XP3 and a Heater for $40 used, and they both work great, but people above have great points.

You got a great deal.

[Linus]

I know

[Turk]

Sorry another question
How much bio media do I put in(do I fill it in to the max?) and how much (in measurements)would be enough for the xp3?

[VeipaCray]

As much as you can without impeding the operation of the filter.

viewtopic.php?f=9&t=30145#p288911