Fluval fx4 Canister Filter

Fluval is a highly regarded brand, owned by the Rolf C. Hagen Group of Companies. Rolf C. Hagen was founded in 1955 and produces a range of pet products across numerous brands. Fluval focuses on the aquarium niche and sells a range of products – from aquariums themselves all the way down to the heaters, filters and the media used within the filters. They are perhaps best known for their range of high quality aquariums, of which the Fluval fx4 plays a prominent role.

Fluval fx4 Canister Filter Description

The Fluval fx4 Canister Filter is part of the fx canister filter range by Fluval. The Fluval fx4 is one of the very best filters available on the market today. It is suitable for aquariums with a total capacity of up to 1,000 liters (approximately 250 gallons). It includes patented SMART PUMP™ technology to optimize performance and is known for its powerful motor technology and ability to run quietly – especially compared to many other filters on the market. Made in Italy, the Fluval fx4 Canister Filter, is perfect for those looking for a high quality filter capable of keeping the water in 200-250 gallon fish tanks perfectly clear.

A Little Bit Fishy Score: 4.5/5
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The Fluval fx4 Canister Filter is made in Italy. It has a multi-stage filter pump and can pump out 700 gallons (2,650 liters) per hour. It has a filter circulation of 450 gallons (approx 1,700 liters) per hour and a filtration volume of 14 liters (approx. 3.7 US gallons). The Fluval fx4 has dimensions of 15.75 x 15.75 x 16.5″ (40 x 40 x 42 cm).

Contrary to the 06 Series of pumps, the Fluval fx4 is self starting and does not need to be primed. To get it started, simply add water and plug it into the mains. The pump will take care of the rest. In addition, to ensure efficiency of the system, the pump will release any trapped air twice a day.

The Fluval fx4 can be used for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums. It’s feet are made of rubber, helping to minimize / eliminate the vibration noise that is a bi-product of many other filters in the marketplace.

Fx4 Media Baskets

The FX range is designed so that the media baskets are stackable, eliminating the ability for water to bypass certain filters. The are also easily removable – very useful when you want to change the filters – and come with mechanical, chemical and biological filter media. Moreover, the stacking system allows you to select the order of media that is best for your specific aquarium. The Fluval fx4 has up to 4 stages of filtration.

Fluval fx4 Review

The Fluval fx4 is not cheap, but it certainly delivers a punch. The FX serious is highly regarded for its power and durability, efficiently cleaning tanks and leaving them sparkling clear.

The fx4 starts instantly, and does not need to be primed – less messing around trying to get the pump to start. Once running, the smart pump ensures that your pump continues to run effectively.

One of the Fluval fx4’s strengths is also its main weakness… The filtration volume is an impressive 3.7 gallons in size – filled with media helps keep your tank sparkling clear. But it also makes the filter difficult to move. An inconvenience when you want to take it from it’s current location to where you want to maintain it / change filters etc.

Some users have complained that the box / packaging of the Fluval fx4 appeared to have been opened previously. I.e. it may have been a refurbished or repaired model. To ensure the integrity of your product we would recommend that you only buy it directly from Fluval via Amazon.

Overall the Fluval fx4 is an incredibly impressive filter. It is not cheap. But we do think it is worth the money to keep tanks as large as 250 gallons sparkling clean.

If you need something a little more powerful, the Fluval fx6 is a highly regarded filter than cleans aquariums up to 400 gallons in size.

3 Year Limited Warranty

Per Fluval:

“The Fluval FX4 High Performance Canister Filter is guaranteed against defects in material and workmanship under normal aquarium usage and service for 3 years from date of purchase. Non-replaceable and non-serviceable parts will be repaired or replaced at Rolf C. Hagen Inc.’s discretion, free of charge, when the complete filter is returned with all components along with a valid proof of purchase and postage paid.

This warranty does not apply to any filter that has been subject to misuse, negligence or tampering. It does not apply to filters which have been incorrectly assembled or unsuitably maintained or where installation and maintenance instructions have not been followed correctly. The warranty does not apply to wear and tear parts such as the impeller, impeller cover or motor seal.

No liability is assumed with respect to loss or damage to livestock or personal property irrespective of the cause thereof. Before returning the filter under warranty terms, please ensure that all setup and maintenance instructions have been followed. If you are in doubt, please contact your local aquatic specialist retailer for further advice before returning the product. THIS DOES NOT AFFECT YOUR STATUTORY RIGHTS.”

Fluval fx4 – Conclusion

The Fluval fx4 canister filter is a great option for those looking for a top of the line filter for tanks in the 250 gallon range. We’ve also highlighted other canister filter options should you wish to go a different route.