Filter pump just died, what do I do?

[justin howley]

Ugh, my Fluval Edge pump just died in my Reef tank. I have a power head running in there. What do I do? Will everything die?

 

[rkaragozler]

did you take the pump out and clean it maybe something is stuck

 

[KathyC]

If you can't get the pump working tonight, be sure to point your current powerhead toward the surface to promote oxygen exchange and it can also keep the flow moving in the tank until you get the broken pump replaced.

How big is the tank and what p/h do you have that is still running?

 

[justin howley]

Thanks for the quick response. Nothing stuck. Feels warm, doesn't operate though. Its a 6 gallon fluval edge, just did a 1/3 change of water (salt). Has a mini 100gph powerhead. I can buy one tomorrow, I have one green chromis and a small frag frogspawn and zoad.

 

[KathyC]

Turn it off. Can't hurt to take it apart and see if something is stuck in there.

Just remember to point the operating one toward the surface for tonight

 

[dabgood21]

As long as you have enough water flow, especially toward the surface you should be fine. Personally I've never done this, but I've heard of people that keep smaller reefs with no sump or refugium at all, negating a return. Just powerheads for current and a protein skimmer like a hang-on Prizm to help oxygenate.

My building recently had a power outage for over 12 hours so I know how stressful it could be. At least you could still run powerheads. Also, if you don't already, it's always good to have a few battery powered air pumps (they're cheap) for emergencies to oxygenate and create flow. Some flow is always better then none

 

[justin howley]

Well, things looking good so far this morning. Flow is good, I just freaked out because this is my first reef tank and it's a little over a month old. I'm getting a cheap replacement from the LFS, gonna yell (via email) at Fluval for a new replacement and if not, order a better quality pump. Live and learn.

Thanks for your help guys!