Bring the old one, or a photograph of it
Most equipment problems are a worn part rather than a dead unit. Impellers, seals, clips, sponges and connectors are all replaceable, and usually much cheaper than a new filter or pump. Bring the part in, or a photo clear enough to show the model number.
Where to find the model number
It is normally moulded into the body of the unit or printed on a label on the underside. On pumps it is often on the side of the motor housing. If the label has worn away, a photo of the whole unit from a couple of angles usually gets us there.
When replacing the whole thing makes sense
- The motor has failed rather than the impeller
- The part is no longer made and nothing current fits
- The unit was already undersized for the tank
- Repairs have started to add up
If you are replacing a filter, it is worth keeping the old media running alongside the new one for a few weeks where you can. It carries the bacteria your tank depends on.
Sizing a replacement
Filters and pumps are rated for a volume or a flow rate. Bring the tank or pond dimensions and we can check the new unit is right rather than simply the same as before, which is not always the same thing.