Fluval AC30 BioFoam Filter Insert

The Fluval AquaClear BioFoam Filter Insert is the foam block that drives the first stage of filtration in your AquaClear 30 hang-on-back filter. Its open-pore structure traps debris and waste as water flows through, and that same large surface area becomes prime real estate for the beneficial bacteria that break down ammonia and nitrite. Rinse it, reuse it, and swap it out only when it starts to wear down.

Running a different size AquaClear or restocking the rest of your media stack? Browse all filter media and cartridges at Squeaky's Aquatics.

Why AquaClear BioFoam

• Two jobs in one insert. Traps floating particles mechanically while the porous foam doubles as the primary home for your tank's nitrifying bacteria.
• Reusable, not disposable. Rinse it in old tank water and put it right back. Replace only when the foam no longer springs back or begins to crumble.
• Maintains even flow. Cut to fit the AquaClear 30 media basket so water is pushed through the foam, not around it, keeping both filtration and flow rate consistent.
• Freshwater and saltwater safe. Works in tropical, coldwater, and marine aquariums alike.

Where It Fits in the AquaClear System

AquaClear power filters move water through three stages in order: the BioFoam comes first for mechanical and biological filtration, followed by activated carbon for chemical filtration, then BioMax ceramic rings for extra biological capacity. A clean foam protects the media above it and keeps your filter turning over at its rated flow.

How to Use

• Designed for the Fluval AquaClear 30 power filter (AC30, formerly sold as the AquaClear 150).
• Rinse in dechlorinated or used tank water every 2 to 4 weeks. Avoid hot tap water, which kills the bacteria colony you want to keep.
• When it is finally time to replace the foam, do it on a different week from your other media so you never reset all of your biological filtration at once.
• Available as a single insert or a value 3-pack so you always have a spare on hand.

Specifications

Recommended Pairings

• Fluval AquaClear Power Filter, the hang-on-back filter this insert is built for.
• AquaClear Activated Carbon for the chemical filtration stage.
• AquaClear BioMax ceramic rings for added biological media.
• Running a bigger filter? Grab the AC50 or AC70 BioFoam instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace the BioFoam?
Rinse it every few weeks and it will last several months. Replace it once it stops springing back into shape or starts to fall apart. Because it holds your biological filtration, replace it on a separate week from the carbon and BioMax.

Can I just cut a larger foam to fit?
You can, but the AC30 insert is already sized to the AquaClear 30 basket for a proper seal and even flow, so the correct size is the easy choice.

Does it work in saltwater?
Yes. BioFoam is inert and safe for freshwater, brackish, and marine aquariums.

Is this the same as the old AquaClear foam?
Yes. Fluval BioFoam is the current name for what was formerly labeled AquaClear Foam for the same filters.