AquaClear Motor Unit for 110 Power Filter

The AquaClear Motor Unit, model A16400, is the factory replacement motor for the AquaClear 110 power filter. If your filter has gone loud, stopped pumping or tripped its power, swapping the motor is usually cheaper and quicker than replacing the whole hang-on-back unit, since the filter box and media basket rarely wear out.

When to replace the motor

Before you buy, try the simple fixes. Many AquaClear problems come from a dirty impeller well, not a failed motor. Pull the impeller, clean the well and the shaft, and check that the shaft is not cracked. If the filter still rattles, will not start or hums without moving water, the motor is the likely culprit.

Fit

This unit is made for the 110 size only. Smaller and larger AquaClear models use different motors, so check the model on your filter body before ordering. The listing gives the size simply as for 110 Power Filter.

Swapping it in

1. Unplug the filter and let it drain back into the tank.
2. Lift the old motor out of the filter box.
3. Seat the new motor so the intake tube connects cleanly.
4. Refill the box with tank water, then plug it in.

Check that the motor is fully seated; a loose fit is the most common cause of a new motor running noisy.

Keep the old parts

Hang on to the old motor’s impeller assembly if it is in good shape. A spare impeller can save a trip to the store later.

Looking after it

Clean the impeller every time you service the media. Keep the water level high so the intake never sucks air. If you are rebuilding the filter, it is a good time to refresh media too, such as Marineland Black Diamond carbon in the basket.

Last, write the date on the motor with a marker. It makes it easier to judge how long a motor lasted next time.