Jun 30, 2009
Posted by Freshwater Aquariums in FAQ | 10 Comments
How Long Does A Freshwater Aquarium Filter Need To Be On?
i just bought a 10 gal aquarium and the filter is very noisy. i was wondering if it would be fine to turn it off at night and keep it running during the day.

Like the others said, it needs to stay on. If it is a little loud because of the water flow, make sure the water level is high enough, if the water is to low it will create the water fall effect. If it is the motor, make sure there is nothing on the filter that is rattling causing this. If not and it is just a noisy filter, you may want to think about getting another brand, you can find some good ones at your local pet store for little money for a tank that size. Good luck.
All the time, 24/7.
No sorry but the filter must always be on! If you don’t it wont keep the water clean, and cause a build up in ammonia which will kill all your fishes.
nope …. needs to run 24 – 7 …you might try installing a new impellor…or getting a new filter…let me guess you bought it at a bargain bin like walmart or kmart….they are cheapies…and dont work well for fish either.
You should keep it running. If your 10 gallon is stocked with a certain amount of fish, then the ammonia level may rise. That is harmful to your fish. Plus, if you have no air filter running , then you have no aeration for them to breathe. I do not hear my 3 aquarium filters running. Depending on how long you’ve
had the filter, you may want to get your money back. Then get another one. Also, make sure your water level is not low.
your filter needs to be on 24/7 otherwise the bacteria in your filter will die and your tank water will not be in a very good condition if i were you i would buy another filter just a small one and return the other one
not a good idea, it keep the water clean and aerated, if you just bought it it’s VERY important for it o be on since you probably didn’t cycle your tank first….
what type of filter is it? most are designed to be quiet and if it’s noisy there may be something wrong.
Your filter NEEDS to run all the time. If you can’t stand the sound, move the tank or invest in a better quieter filter such as an aquaclear or an emperor.
That is fine, that is what I do.
You may want to add more water, a lot of time the lower the water level, the louder the filter. Try filling it up to the black line at the top