Help! sand in filter!

[jcma]

ok i was cleaning my tank and accidently left the filter on. apparently, some sand has entered the filter (aquaclear 20 gallon) and now my filter is making a strange noise. it sounds like someone with a raspy, just-caught-a-cold voice. while before, it was very quiet. when i opened up the filter, i saw bits of sand and cleaned out as much as i could. but it is still making the noise! do i have to completely replace my filter or can i make it go away? ANY help would be appreciated. thanks

 

[jimboliana]

the only thing i can suggest is unplugging it, emptying it and taking it apart. Sand is fine and gets everywhere so you have to get everywhere to clean it, sorry dude

 

[freddyk]

Chances are you need to replace the impeller - the sand ruins it easily, causing the noise. With sand it's very important to turn it off during maintenance.

 

[abstract]

did you actually pull the impellor out when you cleaned it (the thing with the little fan and magnet located inside of the black plastic moter enclosure)? if you pull it out and put water in the black part and shake you should be able to get any sand out without haveing to replace the impellor..i tend to do it every time i clean the tank just to be safe.

 

[jcma]

thanks for the tips