How to Assemble a 100 Gallon Aquarium Filter

Aquarium filters are essential to the cleanliness of your tank and to the health of your fish. Larger tanks with a higher fish population are especially in need of proper filtration, with tanks above 50 gallons in size in the most desperate need of filtering. Assembling a filter for your 100-gallon aquarium is a fairly simple process, although is it vital to the balance and well-being of your fish.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Rinse your filter parts thoroughly. It is important to remove any loose pieces of plastic and other foreign material from your filter before placing it in your tank to avoid contamination. Place the parts under cool running water to properly clean them.

2. Hold the large plastic housing in your hand and attach the intake sections to the bottom of the housing. The intake will most likely be a tube or longer section that hangs into the water that pulls water up and into the mechanical parts of your filter. Push them in firmly to prevent them from slipping loose when you plug your filter in.

3. Insert the filter cartridge into the housing. Most aquarium filters use a disposable insert made of carbon or other absorbent material that will pull in and contain harmful by-products from your water. Secure the filter properly inside the housing and wiggle it gently to make sure it will not come loose when your filter is operational.

4. Mount your filter to the side of your aquarium and tighten any mounting brackets. Larger filters often come equipped with small plastic screws that tighten against the glass to prevent slipping once your filter is powered up. If your filter does not have brackets, set it firmly against the edge of your tank in an area free of obstructions.

5. Plug your filter in. Most filters simply plug in and power up with no need for a power switch, so as soon as you plug it in, you should hear the filter start running. Check the filter to make sure the parts are secure and fitting properly to prevent any malfunctions.

6. Fill your filter with water. Slowly pour a small amount of water from your aquarium into the reservoir on your filter and allow it to cycle through. You will notice the filter will push all of the water out and will begin to draw fresh water up from the aquarium as it resumes normal operation. Adjust the placement of the filter if necessary to assure it continues to keep your aquarium clean and healthy.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure your filter is the proper size for your aquarium. A filter that is too small will not draw in enough water to keep your tank clean, and one that is too large can cause unnecessary stress on your tank.
• Never use a filter not approved for your specific type of tank. Freshwater tanks and saltwater tanks often require different filtration systems, so check carefully before installation.