The filter works great. Had a slight leak on the intake cutoff valve when I first started the filter but after I opened and closed it a few times it stopped. The only negative thing about this filter is that I cannot find replacement filter pads. I contacted customer service, and they told me they don't sell the filter pads separately. (So, they have to be cut from bulk filter media) Other than that I really like the filter and it does a great job keeping my tank clean.