Fluval 06 Multi-Stage Canister Filters

Improved performance, quiet operation and easier start up help make aquarium-keeping worry free. The Fluval 06 is the next generation model from a trusted line of multi-stage canister filters. Most notable is the advanced motor technology that boosts filter performance. Increased hydraulic performance delivers the power to maintain strong flow rates through customized stages of mechanical, chemical, biological AND fine mechanical filtration. The new 06 Series Filters boast additional user-friendly features for extra convenience that makes aquarium fish keeping more enjoyable. Includes 1/2" OD ribbed hosing (76986 and 76987 come with 8.5' and 76988 and 76989 come with 9.8') for ease in set up.

Fluval canister design holds 35-50% more volume than round canisters of a similar size. Increased volume means more filter media AND a larger filtration area. This advantage is multiplied by directing water through a complex flow path that maximizes contact with each filtration stage. The result is optimized efficiency, reduced need for maintenance AND the reliable flow of filtered aquarium water.

Fluval 06 Multi-Stage Canister Filters include filter media pre-packed for basic filtration. Filter media is placed in the filter baskets at the recommended positions. To achieve maximum filter efficiency, Fluval 06 introduces the Fluval Bio-Foam*. This "3-Dimensional" filter foam maximizes filter performance with greater mechanical and biological filtration. Smaller particles and debris are removed while unique pore structure maximizes the surface area for beneficial bacterial colonization. Available in four distinct sizes - each with increasing flow rates and filter capacities - to suit any small to mid-sized home or commercial aquarium. For use with freshwater or saltwater aquariums.

Redesigned Fluval 06 Multi-Stage Canister Filters are 8 to 15% more quiet than previous models thanks to a sound-dampening impeller design. Reengineered "instant prime system" ensures start up ease. Once running, the new Aqua-Stop Valves let you disconnect and then reconnect the hosing without compromising the system's vacuum seal. This means instant stop and restart capabilities for convenient filter maintenance without the need for priming.

Additional features include strengthened Lift-lock clamps for secure closure; improved hose lock nuts and Rim Connector Assemblies for secure installation of filter hoses; Intake Strainer with clog-proof, wide-mouth design for steady, rapid siphoning; and signature interchangeable media baskets for greater flexibility to customize filtration.

*Not included with the Fluval 106.

*Dimensions are for the canister only, the aquastops add about 3 inches to the height.

Shop all Aquarium Canister Filters.

Please click on "More Information" for quick start guide.

Step 1
Unpack and Identify All Parts

Step 2
Decide on Filter Placement

The Canister Base must never be more than 4.5 ft below the water level.
• Hosing must follow a straight path from the filter to the aquarium rim, with very little slack and no loops.
• The water level should never be more than 7 inches below your aquarium rim.
• The filter must always be positioned below the aquarium.
• Intake Tube should not be positioned in close proximity to an air source.

Step 3
Place Bottom Half of Rim Connector Assemblies over the Top Edge of the Aquarium

• There is one Rim Connector Assembly for the Intake and one for the Output. Do not place the Intake near an air source.
• Attach Suction Cups to Rim Connectors.

Step 4
Prepare Intake and Output Connections

• Attach Hosing to Intake Connector (IN) on the AquaStop Valve.
• Measure and cut Hosing at a point about 4 inches beyond aquarium rim.
• Attach Hosing to Intake Assembly.
• Click Suction Cup to Intake Assembly.
• Position top half of the Rim Connector Assembly over the Hosing.
• Repeat above steps to install the Output Nozzle. Note that the Factory Finished End of the Hosing should be attached to the AquaStop Valve.

Step 5
Prepare the Filter Media

• Remove the Foam Screen, Foam, Media Cover, Baskets and Media from the canister. Note the sequence the Media was packed in. This is the recommended Media placement.
Rinse all with running water to remove dust. Remove Media from poly bags but do not remove the Carbon from the porous bag.
• Place Media in baskets, and the Foam into the Foam Screen Frame. Place baskets and Foam Screen Frame back in filter canister and put cover on top basket.

Step 6
Complete Canister Assembly

Step 7
Starting the Filter

• Insert the AquaStop Valve into Intake and Output Connectors on Cover. Push the Locking Lever all the way down to lock in place.
• Open AquaStop Valve by pushing the Top Valve Lever all the way down.
• Check all connections.
• Pump the Instant Prime Handle until water starts to fill the canister.
• When the canister is full, plug in filter.

Recommended Filter Layering for Fluval Advanced Filtration
Lower Level Basket Media that continues the mechanical capture of small particles should be placed in the lowest media basket, to purify water and/or remove particles before they can clog delicate pores of biological or chemical substrates. The Bio-Foam is ideal to remove small dirt particles that are not retained by the Foam Screen Frame. In addition, this foam provides a large surface to accommodate bacteria colonies, providing an ideal environment for proliferation of beneficial bacteria and increasing the biological actions of Fluval BIOMAX. Recommended Fluval MSF Filter Media:

• Fluval BIOMAX
• Bio-Foam

Mid Level Basket(s)
The Mid Level Basket is a good place to begin the biological reduction process. A lot of media types provide both mechanical filtration and biological treatment, creating an excellent environment for beneficial bacteria to proliferate. With the primary mechanical purification of the water stream occurring in the Foam Screen Frame and the Lower Level Basket, it is typical to load biological media such as BIOMAX into the Mid Level Basket. Recommended Fluval MSF Filter Media:

• Fluval BIOMAX

Upper Level Basket(s)
This basket receives the clearest water, making it the proper place for dedicated chemical media. Placed here, Carbon, for example, efficiently removes discolorations, medications and solubilized wastes that a mechanical screen cannot. To increase the action of chemical filter media and to prevent clogging from micro-particulates, it is suggested to use a Polishing Pad just prior to the chemical media. The fine filtration and chemical media require more frequent maintenance than biological materials and their placement at the top makes it easier to wash and or replace without affecting the biological media. Recommended Fluval MSF Filter Media:

• Fluval Ammonia Remover
• Fluval Peat Granules
• Fluval Zeo-Carb
• Fluval Carbon
• Fluval Peat Fiber
• Filter Floss
• Water Polishing Pad