How do I Install a Canister Filter?

Canister filters are a type of fish aquarium filter that sits below the tank. Canister filters are considered to be larger and more powerful than those of the hang on variety. They are closed cylinders that use tubing to simultaneously draw water from the tank, filter it, and then pump it back into the tank.

  1. Prepping for Installation

    • Before installing the filter, the aquarium's water level should be filled to its maximum. Make sure that the filter sits somewhere between 7.8 inches and 4.9 feet below the water level. The intake hosing length should ideally exceed no more than 9.8 feet, with the total length of intake and outlet hosing comprising no more than 16.4 feet. The hosing itself should be straight from the filter to aquarium rim, with no loops. Keep in mind that the filter should be installed beneath the aquarium, with the hosing attachments accessible.

    Connecting the Hosing

    • To connect the intake and outlet hosing, first attach the rim connectors to the back top edge of the aquarium where you would like the input and output tubing to be placed. Connect the intake hosing to a valve and then measure and cut it so that it follows a straight path from the filter's lid to at least 6 inches beyond the aquarium's lid. Attach the intake strainer tube to the cut end of the hosing, place the tube inside the aquarium at least 3 inches from the bottom and then fasten the intake hosing onto the rim connector. Connect and prepare the outlet hosing in the same manner, placing the output nozzle 1 inch below the tank's water line.

    Filter Preparation

    • Make sure that the filter's baskets contain filtering devices and then fill the canister with about 2 gallons of water. Place the filter in its final position beneath the aquarium, ensuring that the purge valve is closed. Finally, attach both the intake and outlet valves to the top of the in and out connections on the canister's closed lid.