Whether you’re using an Eheim Classic, eXperience, or Professionel 4+ model, this guide will walk you through everything from setup and maintenance to troubleshooting and optimizing performance.
1. Getting Started – What’s in the Box?
Every Eheim external filter typically includes:
• Canister body with motor head
• Inlet and outlet hoses
• Intake pipe and spray bar
• Filter media baskets (depending on model)
• Preloaded filter media (Eheim Mech and Substrat Pro in most models)
• Suction cups and clips
• Instruction manual
Before starting, double-check that all parts are present and undamaged.
2. Setting Up Your Eheim Filter
Positioning the Filter
• Place the filter below the aquarium water level for proper siphon function.
• Ensure it’s positioned on a level, stable surface to avoid vibration or damage.
Assembling the Filter
• Install media in the correct order (typically mechanical first, then biological, then fine pads if used).
• Fill the canister with tank water to speed up priming and bacterial colonization.
Connecting the Hoses
• Cut inlet and outlet hoses to the required length.
• Connect the inlet hose to the intake pipe and position it in the tank near the substrate.
• Connect the outlet hose to the spray bar or return pipe and position it just below the water surface.
Priming the Filter
• Classic models: Fill the canister manually and start a siphon using gravity or suction.
• eXperience and Professionel: Use the built-in priming button until water flows through the outlet hose steadily.
3. Maintenance Schedule
Regular maintenance keeps your filter efficient and your water clear. Here’s a typical timeline:
Every 4–8 weeks
• Check flow rate—reduced flow means it’s time to clean.
• Rinse mechanical media (sponges, Mech) in tank water to remove debris.
• Check impeller and shaft for wear or blockages.
Every 3–6 months
• Replace fine filter pads or polishing floss.
• Inspect seals and O-rings for wear or hardening.
• Clean hoses and inlet/outlet tubes with a pipe brush.
Annually
• Replace biological media only if necessary and in staggered batches to preserve beneficial bacteria.
• Replace worn parts like impellers or rubber seals using genuine Eheim spares.
4. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Filter Won’t Start / No Water Flow
• Check for airlocks—gently tilt the canister side to side.
• Ensure hoses aren’t kinked or too high above the waterline.
• Check that the impeller is seated correctly and spinning freely.
Filter is Noisy
• Air trapped inside – tip the unit gently or briefly unplug and replug it.
• Impeller shaft or bushings may be worn or dirty.
• Ensure the filter is on a level surface and vibration isn’t causing resonance.
Reduced Flow Rate
• Pre-filter or sponges may be clogged—rinse them.
• Check for debris in the impeller chamber.
• Clean hoses and spray bar to remove biofilm buildup.
Leaks Around the Head Unit
• Ensure O-ring is seated properly and lubricated with silicone grease (never petroleum-based).
• Tighten clamps evenly and firmly.
• Check for cracks or damage to the canister or sealing surfaces.
5. Optimising Performance
Flow Direction & Placement
• Aim the spray bar toward the water surface to promote gas exchange.
• For planted tanks, gentle flow is ideal—position the outlet to avoid disturbing substrate.
Media Configuration Tips
• Mechanical > Biological > Fine filtration is the best order.
• Avoid over-packing media; allow water to flow evenly through layers.
• Use carbon or phosphate removers sparingly and only when needed.
Power Consumption
• Eheim filters are energy efficient—most models draw between 5W and 16W.
• Clean filters regularly to maintain low energy use.
6. Spare Parts & Support
Charterhouse Aquatics stocks a full range of Eheim spare parts, including:
• Impellers and shafts
• Seals and O-rings
• Hose sets and pipework
• Replacement media
• Filter baskets and trays
Need help identifying a part? Contact our support team with your filter model number, or refer to the exploded diagrams in the official Eheim manual.
7. Model-Specific Tips
Eheim Classic Series
• No self-priming, so fill the canister before starting.
• Simple and robust—ideal for users comfortable with manual maintenance.
Eheim eXperience
• Self-priming with square canister shape for stable placement.
• Easy-clean trays and quick disconnects for fast maintenance.
Eheim Professionel 4+
• Electronic flow control and “Xtender” function to reduce cleaning frequency.
• Ideal for large or high-bio-load tanks where precision is key.
Still Need Help?
If you’re unsure about setup, replacement parts, or troubleshooting, our team at Charterhouse Aquatics is happy to help. Contact us via email, live chat, or phone, and we’ll get your Eheim filter running smoothly again.
