Equipment Review and Discussion :: Zoo Med 511 Filter - Not sure if it working properly

[kozysnacker]

Hello, it's great to have discovered this forum.

I installed the Zoo Med 511 for my 10 gallon tank a couple of days ago and am not sure whether it working properly. The unit makes constant "clicking" or "knocking" as if something is boiling in a pot. Also, I haven't seen any noticeable change to the water quality even after two full days of near nonstop operation. Finally, the spray bar (outlet from the canister) hasn't sprayed any water.

Has anyone used this filter to give some assistance? I was excited to finally have a nice filter and hopefully this will get resolved.

[steve]

I haven't used this filter before but it doesn't sound like it's fully primed or air is getting into the system. Most canisters are very quiet, you only hear the hum of the motor and the water from the output/spraybar.

[kozysnacker]

I haven't used this filter before but it doesn't sound like it's fully primed or air is getting into the system. Most canisters are very quiet, you only hear the hum of the motor and the water from the output/spraybar.

Hmm, I've checked the lid and all the hoses to ensure that they're tightly sealed. Do I need to be doing anything for it to be better primed? I'm rather new at this and would appreciate any help.

[steve]

The canister needs to be filled and the intake tube needs to be completely filled. Most canisters have their own method of priming, you will have to look at the manual again.

[TurtleMan10]

For my zoo med it is very finicky... Like Steve said the canister needs to be completely filled. What I do is fill it, run it, and if it still makes the noise...I unplug it open the small round opening...fill with water and make sure that the cap is back on tight. Then it should work fine. Also I find a lot of junk its caught in the elbows which clogs it so make sure those are clean!