Fluval 107 Performance Canister Filter Review

The Fluval 107 Performance Canister Filter promises great things – but does it live up to expectations? That’s exactly what we’re here to evaluate.

According to our observations, it works for both freshwater and saltwater tanks, is easy to set up, and operates so quietly that you may not even know it’s on. Sounds perfect, right?

Well, unfortunately, not everyone is after the same thing when it comes to aquarium accessories. Some users might be looking for an affordable option while others might want something to last a lifetime.

So is this canister filter the right choice for you? Let’s take a closer look at the Fluval 107 Performance Canister Filter and find out.

Fluval 107 Performance Canister Filter: The Details

Specs

• Weight: 4.89 lbs.
• Dimensions: 7.5 x 11.4 x 13 inches.
• Filter Capacity: Up to 30 gallons.
• Flow Rate: 145 gph.
• Media Stages: Bio-foam max sponge, carbon.
• Self-Priming or Standard: Self-priming.
• Warranty: 30-day warranty.

Features

Capacity and Compatibility

The Fluval 107 Performance Canister Filter operates best with tanks that hold between 10 and 30 gallons.

While this filter can work through a decent amount of water per hour, it’s only meant for small- to medium-size aquariums.

Most filters are restricted to one type of water – fresh or salt. As a unique advantage, the Fluval 107 works excellently in both, holding up to the corrosion of saltwater as easily as it handles the blander conditions of freshwater.

Media

The Fluval 107 filter uses two different types of media to clean the water pumped through it. Specifically, this includes a Bio-Foam Max, Bio Foam, and Bio-Foam + sponge, all of which go into the media basket.

When the pump moves the water to the filter, it runs across the sponges in order to trap dirt, debris, and waste.

The Bio-Foam Max sponge also has a rippled surface, so there is ample coverage for capturing impurities. This leaves the water thoroughly cleaned for your fish and prevents clogging in your tubes.

As a plus, you also receive 70 grams of carbon. This carbon helps remove any odors from the waste and debris built up within the sponges.

It also removes any organic or inorganic materials from the water, keeping the tank clean and healthy.

Pump

For the best results, the water must be shifted through the filter, cleaned, and then moved back out into the tank. That’s where the pump comes in.

Located inside the canister, it provides the necessary pressure to transition the water through the cleaning process.

This filter has a flow rate of 145 gallons per hour. As such, if you have a 30-gallon tank, the pump will ensure it’s cleaned over four times per hour. So long as the filter is well-maintained and working properly, your fish will be kept in pristine conditions 24/7.

As a plus, the filter requires very little energy. According to Dynastar, the pump draws as little energy as an LED light.

Accessories

• Bio-Foam Max.
• Bio-Foam.
• Carbon 70 g.
• Quick-Clear.
• Bio-Foam+.
• AquaStop valve.
• Ribbed hosing.
• Rim connectors.
• Intake tube.
• Intake strainer.
• Intake Stem with intake strainer.
• Pre-Filter basket.
• Media basket.
• Media basket cover.
• Media basket handle.
• Suction cup (30 mm).
• Output nozzle.
• Rubber hose connectors.
• Instruction manual.

Fluval 107 Performance Canister Filter Review

The Positives

Super Easy to Set Up

We’re happy to report that the Fluval 107 Performance Canister Filter is very easy to set up. You don’t need any prior experience with aquarium filters to get it up and running.

First, decide where you’ll place the filter. Keep in mind that the Fluval 107 is a gravity-fed system, so you don’t want the filter located higher than the tank itself.

Next, place the two rim connectors over the top edge of the aquarium, and then insert the AquaStop valve into the intake and output connections on the cover. Push down until it locks, so the entire system is properly secured.

Next, measure the tubing, cut it to the specifications you need, and push the tubing into the output connector at the top of the output nozzle. Place the nozzle in the tank.

Now it’s time to prepare the filter. Remove both the media basket and the media within, and rinse these pieces thoroughly. Once finished, put the media back into its designated spot in the basket and relocate the entire set in the main filter.

Place the cover on top and lock it into place using the clamps. Make sure the lid is secure. Finally, insert the AquaStop valve into the input and output connectors on the cover, open the valve, press the instant-prime handle three or four times to prime the pump, and you’re all set! Just plug it in and it should start bubbling.

Incredibly Easy to Maintain

Once it’s set up, owning this canister filter doesn’t get any harder. There is almost no maintenance required on the Fluval 107 canister filter. Just rinse the filter every couple of months and occasionally replace the media.

To do so, you should unplug the filter, remove the cover, remove all the media, and then rinse everything out. The BioMax sponge can be rinsed out every 2-3 months but should be replaced once it begins deteriorating.

The carbon should be changed every 2-3 months as well. Once you’ve rinsed out the components and/or changed the media, reassemble the canister and place it back on your tank.

This is great news for those just starting out in this hobby, or busy aquarists who don’t have a ton of time to dedicate to tank maintenance. Fluval knows how to make the life of an aquarist easy by manufacturing breezy appliances.

Very Versatile

We loved how the Fluval 107 was able to work on any kind of tank. Whether you have a small 10-gallon tank for a choice number of bettas, or a 30-gallon tank for a larger school, this filter has you covered.

Even better, you’re not limited by the aquarium type you choose; freshwater or saltwater are equally supported.

With most filters, you’re restricted to precise capacities or water types. With the Fluval filter, you’re allowed to switch it between multiple tanks or transition it to new environments as you please.

No need to buy a different filter just because you’ve upgraded to a larger saltwater tank; it has the range to accommodate your needs. This is great for stretching your dollar in the long run, or for new hobbyists who aren’t sure which setup they prefer.

Incredibly Quiet

According to our observations, we’re happy to report that the pump included is exceptionally quiet on the Fluval 107. If you’re placing this in your bedroom or in a child’s room, there’s no danger of it keeping you up at night.

If it weren’t for the bubbles forming in the water, you may not even know it’s on! This filter is designed with energy-efficient pumps that move the water aptly, but not loudly.

Depending on the aquarium set-up you have, it’s easy to get annoyed or feel drowned out by the gurgles and whirrs of your tank. Thankfully, those with sensitive ears or quiet spaces won’t have to worry about where they place their tank.

You’ll be able to admire your beautiful set-up without it stealing all the attention. This is a great feature on the Fluval.

Surprisingly Affordable

You won’t have to be digging too deep into your pockets to get a canister filter packed with reliable features. The Fluval 107 is backed by a great price, perfect for those on a budget.

Priced at around $100 on Amazon, you won’t have to forgo your weekend plans to fit this canister filter into your life. Comparable quality aquarium accessories can certainly rack up a bill, fortunately, Fluval saves you both time and money when it comes to the 107 Canister Filter.

This frees up your pockets so you can spend your cash on other accessories (or pets) and you won’t have to worry about cheaping out either – this canister filter is surely built to last.

Backed by a solid brand known for outstanding customer service, you’ll also have a manufacturer’s warranty to cover you should you find a flaw with your filter. Simply call up Fluval for a repair or replacement and they’ll handle it all.

Compact and Lightweight

Just like you won’t have to worry about this canister filter making a ton of noise, you also won’t have to worry about it taking up all the space in your tank either.

Its compact design makes it easy to fit into a variety of setups without the worry of it being an eyesore or stealing all of the attention.

It’s lightweight, making it easy to move around too. This makes this canister filter that much more versatile.

The Negatives

Economical Materials

While we have very few bad things to say about this canister filter, there were some users who thought the materials used to construct this canister filter could be made of higher quality.

They were expecting the filter’s construction and materials to be sturdier but since the materials used don’t take away from this filter’s functionality, performance and durability, it’s hard to be terribly disappointed by this.

The filter should last a couple of years before you need to consider replacing it.

Here’s a video showing an example of what the Fluval 107 Canister Filter looks like out of the box.

Overall Verdict

After going through all the positives and negatives, we do recommend the Fluval 107 Performance Canister Filter.

With its easy set-up, quiet pump, simple maintenance, and versatility, it’s definitely one of the better canister filters on the market.

So long as you have a tank that’s within the capacity requirements, you should have no issues with this filter whatsoever.

Where to Buy the Fluval 107 Performance Canister Filter

Fluval is one of the more popular brands on the market, with a large lineup of quality tools and accessories for varying levels and types of hobbyists.

Thanks to this company’s success, Fluval items are available all around the globe including the Fluval 107 Performance Canister Filter available both in-store and online.

While it’s usually best to check pet, home department and specialty stores, you can kick-start your search with the following online retailers.

• Big Al’s Pets (from $109)
• Pet Co (from $109)

And of course, you can also find this canister filter on Amazon.

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That’s the end of our Fluval 107 review. Are you curious enough to give it a try?