How often should seals be lubricated?
Written by
Kailani Okoro
Reviewed by
Prof. David Walsh, Ph.D.Lubricating these filter seals once a month can prevent future catastrophes. A special aquarium-safe silicone spray will keep the rubber soft and water-tight. If you forget to lube them, they dry out and crack, causing leaks that can destroy motors and flood the house. I've replaced dozens of burnt motors from people who didn't heed this.
Preparation Steps
- Wipe seals clean with lint-free cloth before application
- Disconnect power and dry housing completely
- Inspect for cracks or deformation
- Gather JBL Silicone Spray and gloves
Application Technique
- Spray silicone directly onto cloth not seal
- Apply thin even coat across entire surface
- Work product into grooves without over-application
- Allow 5-minute absorption before reassembly
Post-Application Check
- Reassemble carefully without pinching seals
- Run filter for 15 minutes without water
- Check for unusual noises or vibration
- Verify watertight seal with paper towel test
Only use aquarium-safe silicone spray, such as JBL, which will not harm the fish and will not degrade the rubber. Spray just enough to prevent oil from leaving a residue on the glass surface. Wipe the liquid with a fish-safe, clean cloth before replacing any discs. This 'slicks' the joints and extends the life by 2-3 years, depending on the manufacturer, versus expensive replacements.
Watch for warning signs of early seal failure. Discoloration of the housing due to water droplets is a surefire indication. Friction will develop a humming sound. A reduction in flow through regular channels is also an indication that leakage is occurring within the system. Lubricate or replace seals immediately. If a catastrophic leak develops, it may dump gallons of water overnight.
Maintain a lubrication schedule. "Mark your calendar for a little oil can maintenance each month," Kelly says. "Combine it with the cleaning activity on your filters for less hassle. Keep a few spares handy in case of emergency replacements. Regular maintenance protects your investment and avoids tragic home flooding disasters. Healthy seals guarantee years of continuous filtration service.
Read the full article: Aquarium Filter Maintenance: Essential Care Guide
