I had this same problem with the original pump in my copper tank. After only a few hours the impeller just kinda fell apart. I ordered one of the newer style pumps for $15 from Caswell and it works great. The only problem I had with it is because it is an external pump, there is an issue with the airline floating on top of the tank. So I took out the heater and ran the hose through a couple of the holes at the bottom of the plastic mesh and put it back in. Hasn't melted or anything yet so I think its OK.
As far as filtration, I'm not sure. I haven't had any problems yet. Is this even an issue? Any pros out there?
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