Fluval FX4 Canister – 2650 L/h Filter up to 1 000 L
Fluval FX4 Canister – 2650 L/h Filter up to 1 000 L
Big-Tank Filtration Without the Bulk
The Fluval FX4 is the compact powerhouse of Fluval’s FX line, supplying professional-grade, multi-stage filtration for tanks up to 250 US gal / 1 000 L. Its Smart Pump™ micro-chip measures impeller speed 700 times per second, ensuring an output of 2 650 L/h while using just 30 W of power—less than most household light bulbs. Every 12 hours the pump pauses automatically, bleeding off accumulated air to maintain peak circulation.
Key Features & Benefits
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Smart Pump™ Control | Self-priming start-up, real-time speed monitoring and automatic air-purge keep flow and efficiency maxed. |
| 14 L “basket-in-basket” chamber | Six-stack design holds coarse foam, polishing pads and your choice of chemical or biological media. |
| 3.9 L Biological Core | Deep-pore basket supports huge colonies of nitrifying bacteria for bullet-proof bio-filtration. |
| Utility Drain Valve | Connect a garden hose to the bottom tap for quick water-changes—no siphons, no heavy lifting. |
| Maintenance-Reminder Dial | Twist the built-in dial to today’s date so you’ll know exactly when the next service is due. |
| Twin Directional Outlets | Aim flow wherever you want and reduce dead-spots. |
| AquaStop Click-Fit Valves | 45° rotating unions let you disconnect hoses for maintenance without leaks. |
| Quiet, Energy-Smart Motor | At 30 W the FX4 runs whisper-quiet and costs pennies per day to operate. |
Technical Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Aquarium Capacity | 1 000 L |
| Pump Output | 2 650 L/h |
| Filter Circulation | 1 700 L/h |
| Canister Volume | 14 L |
| Biological Volume | 3.9 L |
| Max Head Pressure | 2.1 m |
| Dimensions (L × W × H) | 34 × 34 × 42 cm |
| Power Consumption | 30 W @ 230–240 V |
What’s in the Box?
-
6 × FX Series Bio-Foam pads (coarse mechanical + bio)
-
2 × Bio-Foam+ fine-pore pads for polishing
-
2 × BioMax ceramic rings (nitrification)
-
1 × Carbon Foam pad (chemical/odor removal)
-
2 × Reusable media bags for Purigen®, Phos-Guard™ etc.
Installation & Operation
-
Rinse media briefly in de-chlorinated water.
-
Stack baskets, align red handles, fill canister with tank water, clamp lid.
-
Attach hoses via AquaStop valves; set twin outlets just below surface.
-
Plug in—Smart Pump primes and reaches full flow within two minutes.
-
For water-changes, close AquaStops, connect hose to bottom valve and open—Smart Pump does the draining (reverse to refill).
Ideal Applications
| Tank Type | Why FX4 Excels |
|---|---|
| Large predator or cichlid tanks | High turnover handles heavy waste loads. |
| Reef & FOWLR systems | Strong flow + media capacity for nitrate control. |
| Turtle & axolotl setups | Bottom drain simplifies frequent water-changes. |
| Big planted aquascapes | External body keeps heat & CO₂ stable while maintaining crystal clarity. |
Pro Tips
-
Drop Seachem Matrix® into lower baskets to add denitrification capacity.
-
Pair with Fluval FX Gravel-Vac Kit (sold separately) to siphon detritus straight through the utility valve.
-
Clean coarse foams every 4–6 weeks; leave bio media undisturbed for stable bacteria populations.
-
Use the maintenance dial to stay on a 3-month deep-service cycle for best flow rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How loud is the FX4?
A: The Smart Pump impeller sits on vibration-dampening rubber feet, making the filter virtually silent at normal operating distance.
Q: Will it fit inside my cabinet?
A: At 42 cm tall (including valves) the FX4 clears most 60 cm-high stands—just allow 5 cm for hose bends.
Q: Do I need extra pumps for flow?
A: In a standard community tank the 1 700 L/h circulation is plenty. Reef or high-bio-load setups may add wavemakers for cross-flow.
