I guess I'm not exactly sure what I should be expecting out of a canister, because I have an xp3 and xp4 and they both work great I think. I'm currently hunting down an O ring for my xp4, but I know sometimes stuff just happens that doesn't necessarily reflect on the quality of the product. Just remember with anything maintenance, repairs, and failure are always possible no matter what Eheim owners will have you believe. Actually I have an Eheim that works pretty good, so I'm happy with it as well. I'm sure you'll be happy with the xp though.