Home / Pet Supplies
User Manual for Tetra Whisper Internal Power Filter
Quick guide for the Tetra Whisper Internal Power Filter (models 10i, 20i, 40i). Learn how to set up, install, maintain, and troubleshoot your aquarium filter.
Table of contents
Manual images
Click an image to enlargeQuick Guide
The Tetra Whisper Internal Power Filter is designed for aquarium filtration. Key maintenance tasks include replacing the Bio-Bag cartridge monthly, cleaning the impeller yearly, and rinsing the Bio-Scrubber only if clogged. Always unplug the unit before performing any maintenance or disassembly.
Safety Instructions
To avoid electric shock and injury, observe the following precautions:
- Drip Loop: Always arrange a "drip loop" in the power cord to prevent water from traveling along the cord and reaching the electrical outlet.
- Unplugging: Always unplug the appliance before installing, repositioning, cleaning, or removing it.
- Water Exposure: Do not install or store the appliance where it will be exposed to weather or freezing temperatures.
- Damaged Cords: Do not operate the appliance if the cord or plug is damaged.
- Supervision: Close supervision is required when used near children.
Setup and Installation
Follow these steps to install your filter:
- Attach Hanger: Attach the filter hanger to the track on the back of the filter by aligning the water drops.
- Mounting: Clip the filter to the back wall of your aquarium frame. If the hanger does not fit, you may need to order separate suction cups.
- Insert Media: Insert the Filter Cartridge and Bio-Scrubber into the unit.
- Positioning: Adjust the filter height by sliding it up or down along the hanger track to match your water level. For low-water terrariums, the filter can be placed on a ledge or the aquarium bottom.
- Operation: Once positioned, plug in the filter. Avoid using sand in the aquarium, as it can clog the filter.
Maintenance and Cleaning
- Bio-Bag Cartridge: Replace monthly.
- Bio-Scrubber: Do not clean or replace unless damaged. Discoloration is normal. If excessive buildup occurs, rinse gently with room temperature dechlorinated water.
- Impeller: Clean yearly or if the motor becomes noisy. Remove the motor, open the cover, flush debris with clean water, and soak the impeller in distilled white vinegar.
- Medication: Remove the carbon from the Bio-Bag when medicating fish, as carbon absorbs medications.
Troubleshooting
- Filter Noisy: Unplug the unit, remove the motor, and clean the impeller as described in the maintenance section.
- Filter Not Fitting: If the hanger does not fit your aquarium frame, order separate suction cups.
- Water Level Issues: Adjust the filter height on the hanger track. Ensure the water level is within the recommended range (between the intake area and the top of the filter).
- New Aquarium Cycling: It takes a few weeks for a new aquarium to cycle. Use Tetra SafeStart to help establish healthy bacteria immediately.
Practical help
Common problems
Filter is noisy
Unplug the filter, remove the motor, and clean the impeller and motor housing using distilled white vinegar.
Filter hanger does not fit aquarium frame
Order separate suction cups to mount the filter to the aquarium wall.
Bio-Scrubber is clogged
Gently wash with room temperature water treated with AquaSafe water conditioner.
Filter is not filtering properly
Ensure the filter is not clogged with sand and that the water level is within the recommended range.
Before use
- Check for any signs of damage to the cord or plug.
- Ensure the aquarium stand is positioned to prevent water from dripping onto the electrical outlet.
- Create a 'drip loop' in the power cord.
- Verify the filter is securely installed on the tank wall.
- Ensure the water level is within the recommended range.
Specs in practice
- Bio-Scrubber
- Do not replace unless damaged; discoloration is normal and beneficial.
Images and diagrams
- Fig 1: Shows how to attach the hanger to the filter track.
- Fig 2: Shows how to clip the filter to the aquarium frame.
- Fig 4: Illustrates the recommended water level range.
- Illus A: Shows how to access the motor for impeller maintenance.
Model compatibility
- Avoid using sand in the aquarium as it clogs the filter.
- Remove carbon from the Bio-Bag when treating fish with medication.
- For low water level terrariums, the filter can be placed on a ledge or the aquarium bottom.
Manual page author
Emily Carter
User documentation editor
Prepares concise manual descriptions and highlights the most useful setup, operation, and maintenance information for readers.