Fluval C3 Hang On Filter Impeller Assembly
Pack size
1 (single unit)
Water type
Freshwater + Saltwater
Fits
Fluval C3 Power Filter (item 14002)
Part no.
A20298
Fluval C3 Hang On Filter Impeller Assembly
Restores flow when a Fluval C3 goes quiet, noisy or stops pumping altogether. This is the genuine Fluval Impeller Assembly (item A20298) for the C3 Power Filter – the rotating magnet-and-shaft unit that the motor unit spins to draw water through the filter. It's a wear part, not covered by the filter's standard warranty, and the single most common reason a C3 needs a spare.
Key features
- Direct replacement – genuine Fluval item A20298, made to fit the C3 motor housing without modification.
- Fixes the usual symptoms – a rattling or grinding noise, reduced flow, or a filter that hums but doesn't pump.
- No tools needed – unplug the filter, lift off the impeller cover, and swap the assembly by hand.
Specifications
| Fluval item number | A20298 |
|---|---|
| Part type | Impeller assembly (magnet, shaft and blades) |
| Fits | Fluval C3 Power Filter (item 14002) |
| Sold as | Single unit |
Will it fit my filter?
Made for the Fluval C3 Power Filter specifically – not the C2 or C4, which use their own impeller assemblies. This part is the impeller itself, not the clear impeller cover that sits over it: if your cover is cracked but the filter still runs quietly and pumps normally, you need the Impeller Cover Assembly (item A20286, shared with the C2) instead of this part.
Suitable for, and not suitable for
- Fixes a noisy, slow or non-running Fluval C3 caused by a worn, cracked or debris-jammed impeller.
- Won't help if the problem is upstream of the impeller – a clogged foam pad or bio-screen restricting flow into the filter looks similar but isn't fixed by a new impeller. Rule that out first.
Care and maintenance
Rinse the impeller, shaft and magnet chamber periodically during routine filter cleaning – grit and snail shells are the most common cause of a jammed or worn impeller. Fitting the new assembly takes a couple of minutes: unplug the filter, remove the impeller cover, lift out the old impeller, and press the new one into place.
Goes well with
- Fluval C3 Foam Pad (item 14006) – keeping this clean reduces grit reaching the impeller.
- Impeller Cover Assembly (item A20286) – worth checking if the cover itself is cracked or missing its tab.
Warranty and delivery
Impellers are a wear item and are excluded from Fluval's standard filter warranty, in line with the manufacturer's terms; this is in addition to, not instead of, your rights under Australian Consumer Law. Ships as a standard parcel.
Common questions
How do I know if I need a new impeller or a new cover?
A worn or jammed impeller usually causes noise, reduced flow, or a filter that hums without pumping. A cracked cover usually leaks or rattles loosely without affecting flow. If in doubt, check both – they're sold separately.
Do I need any tools to fit this?
No. It's a tool-free swap – unplug the filter, remove the impeller cover, and replace the assembly by hand.
Will this fit my C2 or C4 filter?
No. This impeller assembly (item A20298) is made for the C3 only.
Is the impeller covered under warranty?
No – impellers are a wear part and are excluded from Fluval's standard filter warranty, the same as with most powerhead and filter motors.
