Fluval AquaClear AC30 Power Filter – Hang-On-Back Aquarium Filter

The Fluval AquaClear AC30 is a hang-on-back aquarium power filter designed for aquariums up to 30 gallons. It provides mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration in a compact HOB design for smaller freshwater and saltwater aquarium setups.

The AquaClear AC30 uses an open media basket that allows aquarists to customize filter media based on the needs of the aquarium. It can be used for community tanks, planted aquariums, shrimp tanks with an intake sponge, nano aquariums, quarantine systems, and other appropriately sized aquariums.

Key Features

• Hang-On-Back Design: Installs on the back rim of compatible aquariums
• For Aquariums up to 30 Gallons: Suitable for many small freshwater and saltwater setups
• Customizable Media Basket: Open basket design allows media to be adjusted or replaced
• Multi-Stage Filtration: Supports mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration
• Lift-Out Media Basket: Helps make routine maintenance easier
• Freshwater & Saltwater Use: Can be used in freshwater, marine, and FOWLR aquariums when maintained properly

Product Information

• Brand: Fluval
• Model: AquaClear AC30
• Product Type: Hang-on-back power filter
• Aquarium Size: Up to 30 gallons
• Flow Rate: Approximately 150 GPH
• Filtration Stages: Mechanical, chemical, and biological
• Included Media: Foam insert, activated carbon, and BioMax media
• Use: Freshwater and saltwater aquariums

Best Uses

• Freshwater community aquariums
• Planted aquariums
• Shrimp tanks with a pre-filter sponge
• Betta aquariums when flow is appropriate
• Nano aquariums
• Quarantine and hospital tanks
• Grow-out systems
• Small fish-only saltwater aquariums

Filtration Benefits

The Fluval AquaClear AC30 supports three common types of aquarium filtration. The foam insert helps collect debris and provides surface area for beneficial bacteria. Activated carbon can help remove some dissolved organics and discoloration. BioMax media provides additional surface area for biological filtration.

The open media basket gives aquarists flexibility to adjust media choices based on stocking level, water clarity needs, planted tank goals, or maintenance routine.

Setup & Maintenance Tips

• Rinse filter media before first use using aquarium-safe water
• Prime the filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions before plugging it in
• Use a pre-filter sponge on the intake for shrimp, fry, or very small fish
• Do not replace all biological media at one time
• Clean the impeller and intake as part of routine maintenance
• Check flow regularly and service the filter when output slows
• Maintenance frequency depends on stocking level, feeding, and aquarium bioload

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize the Fluval AquaClear AC30 filter media?
Yes. The AC30 has an open media basket that allows aquarists to adjust or replace filter media based on the needs of the aquarium.

What size aquarium is the AquaClear AC30 for?
The Fluval AquaClear AC30 is rated for aquariums up to 30 gallons.

What is the flow rate of the AquaClear AC30?
The AC30 has a listed flow rate of approximately 150 gallons per hour.

Is the AquaClear AC30 good for shrimp tanks?
It can be used on shrimp tanks when paired with a pre-filter sponge on the intake to help protect shrimp and shrimplets.

Can the AquaClear AC30 be used on saltwater aquariums?
Yes. The AC30 can be used on freshwater, marine, and FOWLR aquariums when properly maintained.

How often should the AquaClear AC30 be cleaned?
Maintenance frequency depends on aquarium size, stocking level, feeding, and bioload. Many aquariums benefit from filter inspection or cleaning every 2–4 weeks, but heavily stocked tanks may need more frequent service.

Does the AC30 include filter media?
Yes. The Fluval AquaClear AC30 typically includes a foam insert, activated carbon, and BioMax media.

Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo

The Fluval AquaClear AC30 Power Filter is a hang-on-back aquarium filter for aquariums up to 30 gallons. Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to shop Fluval filters, filter media, aquarium supplies, water conditioners, heaters, fish food, live plants, and aquarium care essentials.

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