Zoo Med Turtle Filters

Specially designed to tackle ammonia and waste problems in turtle habitats. Quiet, yet powerful, external 3-stage filter systems keep water exceptionally clean and odor-free. Water continuously circulates to trap debris, neutralize ammonia, and help remove dissolved organics. External 501 Turtle Filter features innovative spray bar return that showers the habitat to maintain humidity. Replacement media available. It is recommended that the filter is placed on the same level as the terrarium.

501 includes: filter unit, spray bar, tubing, valves, fittings, ceramic and carbon media, sponge filter, mounting hardware, and suction cups. 3-1/2" x 6" x 6-1/2" high.

Easy-priming external filter for turtle tanks, vivariums, box turtle pools, or aquariums up to 30 gallons. Three-stage system filters/recirculates up to 79 gph, and keeps water clean and healthy with:

• Chemical filtration (carbon)
• Mechanical filtration (ceramic)
• Biological filtration (sponge)

Extra large carbon chamber ensures maximum ammonia absorption - very beneficial in turtle tanks or vivariums with amphibians. Specially designed water pump motor can run dry for up to 30 days without damaging the unit.

Includes:
Filter unit
Spray bar
Tubing
Valves
Fittings
Ceramic and carbon filter media
Sponge filter
Mounting hardware
Suction cups

Technical Data

Installation

Mount the suctions caps on the filter. Choose an appropriate position for good water circulation. Clean the surface from algae etc. and firmly press the filter against it.

Installation Notes:

It is recommended that the filter is placed on the same level as the terrarium.

For best performance, place the filter in an upright position beside the terrarium. Do not lay the filter on its side.

Avoid tight bands or kinks in the flexible hose.

Maintenance
Periodically clean the filter, the rotor and the pump chamber to remove any debris, which could block the unit. It is recommended to replace the filter cartridge after 3 or 4 rinsings or when it appears to be damaged to ensure maximum efficiency. The activated carbon in the cartridge will lose its efficiency over a period of time depending on the pollution of its location. It is therefore recommended that the carbon is replaced at least once a month. If necessary the container can be filled with zeolite or any other material as required.

The motor is fully encapsulated and self protected against overheating and needs no particular care. If the pump fails to work, check first the electrical supply, connections, circuit breaker, etc. if these are correct, the pump needs to be cleaned.

Cleaning
Prior to any work on the unit, disconnect all electrical equipment from the power. Remove the filter from the motor housing and open it, pull off the rotor from its location. Carefully rinse all components under running water cleaning with a non-metallic brush. If necessary, remove lime-scale by leaving the components immersed in vinegar or lemon juice for a few hours. Open the filter housing and rinse the sponge under luke-warm water. Do not wash chemical media container unless replacing the media. Reassemble the unit so that all components are placed in their original position.

Rachel Nichols
Carrollton, TX

I bought this filter at The North American Reptile Breeders Conference and Trade Show in Arlington, Texas last month. This is the best filter I have used for my 2 baby red-eared sliders I rescued last summer. It is SO quiet. If it weren't for the water spraying into the tank, I wouldn't know it was on. Putting it together for the first time was a little confusing because the picture on the box differs from the way the instructions tell you to assemble it. Other than that it was pretty straightforward. I plan on buying another one when I move my turtles into a larger tank.

Elizabeth Iacouzzi
Jamesburg, NJ

I have used every single other filter out there, and nothing works like this filter. Turtles are extremely messy and this filter is made to handle it. I have two of them on a 70 gallon tank for ONE red eared slider. I do have to clean them out about every 14 days, but don't waste your money with other filters!

Cathy Wilson
Radcliff, OH

I use two of these filters - one at either end of a 55 gal tank that houses 3 red-eared sliders. I hand make my own carbon filter inserts to reduce maintenance costs. I have used these filters for quite some time without any problems. Turtles are very messy and the fact that these can run dry for a long time is a plus. My turtles tend to dislodge items within the aquarium (they swim and splash around alot and are quite strong) and the filter intake often gets blocked.

Kristing
AL

I bought this to use for my son's Yellow Bellied Slider. I love this filter. It keeps the tank clean (with reasonable maintenance and cleaning of course). It helps with the smell of having a turtle too, keeping it contained within the filter. I would definitely recommend this to any one who has an aquatic turtle.