Buying a used filter

[joraejay]

Gonna be buying a used fx5 filter this weekend. It was used for freshwater. What should I do to make sure everything is clean before attaching to my tank?

Can I clean out the media or should I buy new media?

Thanks.

 

[jvin85]

I bought a used eheim 2217 used on a SW setup. I'm using it on a FW.

I was told to take the media and boil, then dry it completely, then boil, then dry completely... then I am good to reuse.

I assume if you're doing the reverse then same steps... if you're using it for fresh water then probably just boil it once and you're good to go... the one boil is just to kill any possible harmful parasites as you can't really trust second hand stuff.

 

[Kaliedoscope]

Dude I've had bad experiences with this, particualy with magnet drive impeller filters. They can wear out, and when this happens they will run at first, but eventually turn off after a few hrs. I don't buy used filters now but if I did I think it would be important to run it for at least 24 hours to make sure its not worn out before I'd trust it in any of my tanks.

hope that helps

 

[joraejay]

Right on guys. I appreciate the feedback. I'm wondering if it's even worth the trouble. I may have to pass on the deal.

Fluval FX5 for 175.00 includes media... 1 year old.

Brand new on ebay runs about 230.00 and some auctions has the media included.

 

[iWantKicks]

I purchased a fx5 for $160.. came with all the media and everything...
came home, filled it, covered it, plugged it in, good to go