Noisy XP3 Filter

[ajm1961]

Has anyone had noise issues with Rena XP series filters? I bought a used one about 5 months ago, and it is definetly noisier than the XP2 I have. It emits a constant drone. Would a replacement impeller kit help, or is there a cheaper cure?
If an impeller kit is the way to go, does anyone know where to get one at a more reasonable price? I've seen it online (BA) for $55 - ouch!
Let me know...
Thanks

[zima]

I would first look into the impeller - maybe it just needs a good clean (they should be cleaned regularly)? How old is the O-ring? Does it let air in?

[ajm1961]

I cleaned the impeller, the tip, the rod, and the base - they weren't too dirty though. The O Ring (on the base just around the impeller?) was torn and I replaced it with the one from my XP2.
I've somewhat changed what is normally in the trays - I have the 2 pairs of 20/30 foam at the bottom, then some eheim subtrate in the middle tray, and finally some ceramic rings, a separator and then a bag of Zeolite and BA floss at the top. I can't imagine that might be the problem, but I thought I'd mention it in case.
The only other thing is that when I put the clamps on the unit after cleaning and filling, I don't find it clamps as tightly as my XP2.
Does all that info help?
I appreciated the reply 'Zima'.

[zima]

The O-ring is the rubber band around the top part; it helps to replace it sometimes. The media inside the filter should have no effect on the noise, unless, of course, the media is finding its way into the impeller  .

If you give the canister a shake or two (or five) when it's working, do you year a waive of noise as if air is finding its way into the filter (sounds as if the filter took a big gulp of air inside). If you do hear this noise, this means air is finding its way into the canister. If the noise is more constant, palstic-y or metallic-y sounding, then you might have a damaged impeller.

[limmer]

Could there be air trapped in the rotor?
Here is a site I found.  Never ordered from there but it looks cheap.
http://www.planetrena.com/
It says free shipping but there may be other costs such as tax, customs.

[ajm1961]

Thanks for all the tips guys - I'll check out the sounds more closely and try to diagnose it. An O-ring would be cheaper than an impeller kit. I did check out Planet Rena - but with the S&H, US exhange rate, and possible customs, it's probably about the same price as here. Maybe I'll be able to get a better deal at the Midnight Madness sale next Saturday!
Cheers!