Review on Sunsun HW302, HW303, HW304: Advanced 3 Stage Aquarium Canister Filters for Optimal Filtration by Austin Hill

This filter is amazing! I used to hate cleaning the tank filters that seem to come with every new tank kit. They were always dirty, noisy, difficult to get to and didn't seem to last long. Water changes weren't fun either, as the water had to be pumped to another tank to pour out. This filter greatly simplifies maintenance. Now all I can do is unplug the power and hoses, take this filter to the sink, pull out the pans and rinse and drain the water to clean the bottom of the canister. As a bonus, I do my water changes at the same time - the amount matches my tank size. This filter does NOT come with filter media, so be sure to purchase some. (I bought a Fluval ceramic pre-filter, activated carbon bags and some bio-beads). This filter isn't exactly quiet, but it's quieter than any built-in vibration filter I've ever had. I don't notice it unless I'm standing right next to him. When assembling the bowls you need to make sure the inlet is in the corner that lines up with the inlet in the lid. The pump still works the other way, but your filter isn't working properly and it's hard to tell if you've screwed up. Also, make sure the inlets are well aligned and the bowls are installed correctly, otherwise the top one will tilt slightly and you won't get as good filtration either. Floats on the surface, use some of the air trapped underneath to keep it on the surface. I had issues with air being pushed off the bottom over time (active fish?) and then sinking below the surface. I added a few small pieces of styrofoam where the air would be to keep it afloat and it hasn't been a problem since. After 2 years: I'm lowering my rating because after 2 years he started having problems. It's constantly sucking air into the pump somewhere, I can't explain why the pump is making loud noises. I've regularly added petroleum jelly to all the seals and have now even tried other areas I thought might be leaking air but can't figure it out. At the moment it works but is very annoying so I have to replace it. The suction cups that hold the exhaust pipe aren't sticking to the glass anymore either, but everything else is holding up well. I don't think an investment of around $25 a year is terrible for this pump, but I was expecting better performance, especially as I tried to take good care of it. I'm thinking about getting another one (maybe mine was just a lemon) or trying a different brand.