Zoo Med Economy Turtle Clean Filter Medium

• 60 GPH (≈227 L/h) flow – enough turnover to keep up with turtle waste without the strong current that can trouble a fish-only tank of the same size.
• Low 7.5 W power draw – runs continuously for a fraction of the running cost of a larger canister filter.
• Sponge and activated carbon cartridge – sponge traps solid waste mechanically, carbon helps clear odour and discolouration.
• Easy-open cleaning door – reach the cartridge without lifting the whole filter out of the tank.
• Vertical or horizontal mounting – corner mount for standard tanks, horizontal for shallow or hatchling setups.

Rated for freshwater turtle and terrapin tanks up to 75 litres (20 gallons). For larger or more heavily stocked adult turtle tanks, step up to Zoo Med's TurtleClean 30, 50 or 75 canister filters rather than running two of these in parallel.

Suitable for freshwater turtle, terrapin and semi-aquatic tanks up to 75 L, including hatchling and juvenile setups where horizontal mounting suits shallow water. Not suitable as the sole filter on tanks over 75 L or heavily stocked adult turtle tanks – those need a larger internal or canister filter.

Turtle tanks foul quickly, so check the cartridge weekly rather than waiting for a scheduled interval. Rinse the sponge in old tank water (not tap water, to protect the filter bacteria) and replace the cartridge once the sponge has lost its spring or the carbon has been in use for a few weeks – Zoo Med's comparable TC-22 (TurtleClean 10) recommends roughly every three weeks under normal stocking, a reasonable guide for this filter too, though heavily stocked tanks will need it sooner. Replacement cartridges are sold separately.

Mains-powered – keep the plug and power point dry and above the waterline, and form a drip loop in the cord below the outlet so water can't run down it into the socket. Unplug before any maintenance and when the filter isn't in use. Don't operate with a damaged cord or plug, and supervise closely around children. Indoor use only – don't expose the unit to weather or freezing conditions.

Pairs well with a turtle basking platform or dock, a submersible turtle water heater, and spare filter cartridges for ongoing servicing.

Zoo Med covers this filter with a 1-year manufacturer warranty against manufacturing defects, in addition to your rights under Australian Consumer Law. Standard shipping applies.

What size tank does this suit?

Freshwater turtle and terrapin tanks up to 75 litres (20 gallons).

Can I mount it horizontally?

Yes – it's designed to sit vertically in a corner or horizontally along the base, which suits shallow water and hatchling setups.

How often should I clean the cartridge?

Check weekly. Turtle tanks fouling faster than fish tanks means a cartridge that lasts a month in a community aquarium may need attention every one to three weeks here.

Is it strong enough for an adult turtle?

For a single adult turtle in a tank up to 75 L, yes. For larger or multi-turtle setups, Zoo Med's bigger TurtleClean canister filters are the better fit.

Does it come with the filter media fitted?

Yes – the sponge and activated carbon cartridge ships fitted and ready to run once submerged.