FilStar XP Canister Filters

Versatile, high performance aquarium canister filter loaded with convenient features. Height-adjustable inlet and customizable outlet system with venturi, and outlet nozzle allow this filter to work efficiently on any type of aquarium. Flow control is above tank level for easy accessibility. Anti-overheating design protects motor if filter gets clogged. Disposable filtration pouches and filtration baskets with handles allow easy replacement of media. Extra-large basket chambers allow space for additional bio media such as Bio-Chem Stars or specialized media. 2-year manufacturer's warranty. Replacement Rotor/Impeller Assemblies available.

Includes: FilStar coarse and fine foams (2 each for XP M and XP L) for particle collection, Micro-Filtration Pad for ultra-fine filtration, Bio-Chem Zorb filtration pouch for removal of organic waste.

Please click on "More Information" for instructions for use and product specifications.

• Height-adjustable inlet with extension pieces and strainer
• Customizable outlet system with venturi, flow adjustment and outlet nozzle
• Suction cups for attaching all outlet and inlet tubes
• Filtration basket(s) with separation grid(s) for filter media
• Flexible inlet and outlet tubing (2 x 5 ft)
• 20 ppi open-cell foam(s) - removes coarse debris
• 30 ppi open-cell foam(s) - removes finer particles
• Micro-filtration pad - for ultra-fine filtration
• Bio-Chem Zorb pouch - for removal of organic waste
• Complete instructions with toll-free technical assistance

Easy Installation

• Adjustable height inlet tube, fits even the deepest aquariums
• Modular outlet system adjusts to any aquarium
• 160 degree rotation of inlet/outlet nozzles

Easy to Use

• Self-priming, easy start system
• Unique one-step water shut-off and disconnect control lever
• Easily accessible flow control from above tank level

Maximum Performance

• Bypass-free construction ensures complete filtration
• Maximum capacity baskets hold large amounts of filtration media
• Efficient 3-stage filtration: mechanical, chemical, and biological
• Long-life shaft will not degrade, even in saltwater

Maximum Reliability

• Unique antiairlock system ensures continuous flow
• Self-locking water shut-off system prevents accidental flow during maintenance
• Rubber feet prevent slipping and dampen noise and vibration
• Barbed nozzles and safety clips (included) ensure a watertight connection
• Anti-overheating design protects motor if filter is clogged

If you need replacement/additional instructions, please contact Aquarium Pharmaceuticals at www.aquariumpharm.com.

Installation Quick Guide

Before you begin
Make sure the filter is positioned between 24" (min) and 55" (max) BELOW the water level of the aquarium. The filter will need to sit on a level surface. Take a look at your aquarium and decide where you want to place the inlet and outlet pipes and the FilStar Canister Power Filter. Make sure the hoses will be long enough and won't be stretched after installation.

STEP 1
Check the Parts
Lay out all of the parts and make sure nothing is missing or damaged. Keep the Inlet & Outlet Parts separate.

STEP 2
Assemble the Inlet Pipe

STEP 3
Assemble the Outlet Pipe

STEP 4
Mount the Inlet & Output Assemblies, using the suction cups to hold them in place.

STEP 5
Set up the Venturi Valve on the Outlet Pipe Assembly.

STEP 6
Set up the Canister Filter

• Remove the Blue Motor Housing by releasing the four Canister Clips and remove the Media Basket(s). Inspect the contents making sure to remove the plastic bag from any media that was shipped wrapped in plastic. Stack the Media Basket back in the Canister Base. Make sure they are stacked straight and that the top Basket Lid has the raised circle facing up. Replace the Blue Motor Housing and secure the four clips to seal it to the base.
• Measure the Flexible Tubing to be attached to the Inlet & Output Assemblies. Cut the tubing so it will go onto the Quick Disconnect Valve with just a little slack (NOTE: It is very important NOT to cut the tubing too short. If the tubing is cut too short and creates tension on the Quick Release Valve, the unit may leak. Additionally, leaving the tubing too long may prevent the unit from priming).
• Push the tubing onto the barbs of the Quick Disconnect Valve, making sure to connect the tubing coming from the Inlet Pipe Assembly to the Inlet Barb and the tubing from the Outlet Pipe Assembly to the Outlet Barb. If these tubes are reversed, the filter will NOT operate correctly.
• Secure the Flexible Tubing with two Flexible Tubing Clamps.

STEP 7
Prime the Filter

• Lift the Lever on top of the Quick Disconnect Valve to prevent water from entering the filter. Remove the Inlet Pipe Cap on the Inlet Pipe Assembly.
• Insert the Priming Funnel into the Inlet Pipe Assembly. Using a cup, pour water into the Priming Funnel until the tubing between the Inlet Pipe and the Quick Disconnect Valve is full of water.
• Remove the Priming Funnel and replace the Inlet Pipe Cap securely. Make sure the Quick Disconnect Valve is fully seated in the blue motor housing, and then push the Lever down.
• The canister should begin to fill with water and air should be forced out through the tubing. Allow two minutes for the filter and tubing to fill completely.

STEP 8
Plug in the power cord to operate the FilStar Canister Power Filter

Maintenance
Clean canister, rinse foam pads, and replace micron filtration pad once monthly. Replace Bio-Chem Zorb every 1-3 months, depending on fish load.

Introduction to mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration:

In an aquatic environment, organic particles (leftover food, excrement, dead algae etc.) are always produced, which if not removed, will result in a high bio-load that encourages the development of nitrate and unsightly algae. Also, as fish digest their food and as bacteria break down fish food and other organic matter, ammonia (which is toxic to fish) is set free into the water. The following types of filtration methods are employed to remove these effects and maintain a suitable environment.

Mechanical Filtration is the physical removal of particulate matter from the water. This is achieved by introducing a mechanical barrier in the water flow that traps particles of a certain size according to filter material used. A mechanical filter is only effective when it is cleaned regularly, otherwise, bacteria will settle in and start breaking down the collected dirt, thus setting nutrients free into the water as well as becoming a bio-filter resulting in increased nitrate levels.

Biological Filtration is the process by which aerobic (nitrifying) bacteria convert the toxic ammonia into nitrite, which is only slightly less toxic than ammonia. Another bacteria changes nitrite into the relatively harmless nitrate. This process is known as nitrification, and in nature, takes place in aquatic habitats and soils where ammonia and sufficient oxygen are present.

The nitrifying bacteria develop naturally in an aquatic environment and will colonize any suitable filter media. Once a biological filter media has been established, it should be disturbed as little as possible since the bacteria colony maintains its level of activity according to the bio-load present in the system.

Chemical Filtration removes toxic or unwanted chemicals as the water passes through a chemical media or resin. A number of recent advancements have brought us new products that are targeted at removing specific chemicals or excess nutrients from the water. If used correctly, these medias can be incorporated into the filtration to both improve water quality, and reduce the amount of maintenance and water changes needed to sustain a healthy aquarium. Most of these medias do have adverse side effects for aquarium pets. It is, however, important to carefully monitor the water chemistry and perform water changes as necessary.