So I bought a new (used) tank today and the guy threw in a lot of stuff to go with it and one of the things was a fluval filter. This was also the only component that he couldnt get to work when I was there. Problem was that we couldnt seem to get it primed, it would try and try but no cigar. Only tried for about 4 minutes but either way any tips or things to work out for?
Fluval 404?
- Thread starter FWKyle
- Start date
I have one. Notoriously hard to prime. Hold the intake up to almost the top of the water, pump it some then do it again. If all else fails shoot some water down the tube with a powerhead if you have one or other pump.
I also fill the canister with as much water as it will hold before even attempting the above.
However, I have to say that I love the canister anyway
I also fill the canister with as much water as it will hold before even attempting the above.
However, I have to say that I love the canister anyway
404...this model always seems to cop some flack...
Step one: Make sure you give all the gaskets a lube with vaseline or similar. Pay particular care to the 2 o-rings on the aquastop valve, if fitted. This should help prevent any annoying leaks.
Step two: Make sure canister is empty of water when you put the lid on. Put it in it's final position eg Under the tank.
Step 3: Submerge the intake line. Keep the outlet line above water level of the tank.
Step Four: Suck on the outlet hose until you hear water falling into the canister. You only need to hear it start. Gravity will take care of the rest so don't keep sucking! You don't want any fish water going in your gob. Keep the outlet above the water level of the tank.
Step 5: When the canister stops gurgling plug that sucker in. You should get a strong flow almost immediately. It's a good idea to aim it in the tank
Step 6: Secure your outlet line to desired final position.
I strongly disagree with the above posters method. Sorry Mate
Step one: Make sure you give all the gaskets a lube with vaseline or similar. Pay particular care to the 2 o-rings on the aquastop valve, if fitted. This should help prevent any annoying leaks.
Step two: Make sure canister is empty of water when you put the lid on. Put it in it's final position eg Under the tank.
Step 3: Submerge the intake line. Keep the outlet line above water level of the tank.
Step Four: Suck on the outlet hose until you hear water falling into the canister. You only need to hear it start. Gravity will take care of the rest so don't keep sucking! You don't want any fish water going in your gob. Keep the outlet above the water level of the tank.
Step 5: When the canister stops gurgling plug that sucker in. You should get a strong flow almost immediately. It's a good idea to aim it in the tank
Step 6: Secure your outlet line to desired final position.
I strongly disagree with the above posters method. Sorry Mate
Keep trying. lol
That's the only advice... stand by with buckets in case it leaks. Fluvals are known for leaking as well...
That's the only advice... stand by with buckets in case it leaks. Fluvals are known for leaking as well...
Unfortunately, the 404 has been known to leak. I have a couple and one of them starting leaking after I did a filter cleaning. I have no idea why... tried changing o-ring, use petroleum jelly, even plumbers puddy. No avail. I ended up tossing it. I have only 1 left... still working but who knows how much longer...
When mine started leaking, it was right away (after the cleaning). It didn't increase or progress over time... just started dripping near the clasp/handle thing.
When mine started leaking, it was right away (after the cleaning). It didn't increase or progress over time... just started dripping near the clasp/handle thing.
My 404 leaks around the handles sometimes after cleaning the canister. I just push down on the top and if that doesn't stop the leak, I take the top off and put it back on. It usually fixed the leak the first time. Kinda of frustrating and scary......I'm scared I will go to bed and end up waking up with water on the floor 
Disclaimer: this leak started after I put the top on backwards one time.......I think it stretched the handles out so it isn't as tight of a fit now. Stupid mistake
To the original posters question.....I would recommend having it full of water before trying to prime it. Of course use the primer piece (up and down) to help get it started. Sometimes when the power goes out, the filter won't run. Even after unplugging it and plugging it back it in is still doesn't start sometimes. I usually just hit/shake it
or take the top off and put it back on and it starts back up
Disclaimer: this leak started after I put the top on backwards one time.......I think it stretched the handles out so it isn't as tight of a fit now. Stupid mistake
To the original posters question.....I would recommend having it full of water before trying to prime it. Of course use the primer piece (up and down) to help get it started. Sometimes when the power goes out, the filter won't run. Even after unplugging it and plugging it back it in is still doesn't start sometimes. I usually just hit/shake it
or take the top off and put it back on and it starts back up