Oase FiltoClear Genuine Replacement Foam Sets

Genuine Oase FiltoClear Replacement Foam Sets

Model-specific filter foams for current and earlier FiltoClear pressure filters

These genuine Oase FiltoClear replacement foam sets are made for the internal carrier and cleaning mechanism of specific FiltoClear pressure filters. The range covers eleven UK and European FiltoClear models from the earlier FiltoClear 3000 through to the current FiltoClear 31000.

The correct set restores the graduated foam arrangement that traps suspended debris, maintains an even water path and provides surface area for beneficial filter bacteria. Oase specifies a fixed pore size and high dimensional stability so the foams can be repeatedly compressed by the FiltoClear cleaning handles and then spring back into shape.

Check the model on the filter data plate before ordering. FiltoClear model numbers that look close can use completely different foam sets. A FiltoClear 30000 does not use the FiltoClear 31000 set, and a 12000 does not use the 13000 set. If the label is missing, send us photographs of the complete filter, lid, electrical head and internal foam carrier and we will help identify it.

Why choose the genuine Oase foam set?

• Exact model compatibility: the diameter, thickness, centre opening and foam combination are matched to the named FiltoClear.
• Reliable cleaning action: dimensionally stable foam is designed to withstand the squeeze-and-release action of the built-in cleaning mechanism.
• Controlled water flow: Oase uses defined pore sizes to maintain a consistent route through the filter rather than allowing water to bypass around poorly fitting media.
• Mechanical and biological filtration: the foams retain solids while providing colonisation area for the bacteria involved in processing ammonia and nitrite.
• Pond-safe material: Oase confirms these foams are compatible with fish, plants and microorganisms when used as intended.
• No guesswork: the genuine part number and supplied foam colours can be checked before the filter is dismantled.

FiltoClear foam compatibility and set contents

Select the exact model from the options above. The price displayed beside the selector is the current price for that variation. The table below records the manufacturer part number, GTIN and the complete foam contents specified by Oase.

Important: an identical foam count does not prove interchangeability. The FiltoClear 11000 and 12000 each use two red and three blue foams, while the 15000 and 16000 each use three red and four blue, but Oase assigns a different replacement part number to each model. Order by model and part number rather than colour count alone.

Current and earlier FiltoClear model names

Oase has used several FiltoClear capacity names over the years. The current core range includes the FiltoClear 5000, FiltoClear 13000, FiltoClear 19000 and FiltoClear 31000. Earlier UK filters include the 3000, 6000, 11000, 12000, 15000, 16000, 20000 and 30000.

The number is part of the model name; it is not a foam size. Do not choose the nearest current number as a substitute. In particular:

• FiltoClear 5000 and FiltoClear 6000 use different sets.
• FiltoClear 11000 and FiltoClear 12000 use different Oase part numbers.
• FiltoClear 12000 and FiltoClear 13000 are different generations and use different foam combinations.
• FiltoClear 15000 and FiltoClear 16000 use separate Oase part numbers.
• FiltoClear 19000 does not use the shared 20000 / 30000 set.
• FiltoClear 30000 uses part 51290; FiltoClear 31000 uses part 77875.

What the coloured FiltoClear foams do

FiltoClear foam is both mechanical and biological media. Larger suspended particles are caught within the more open structure, while finer material is retained by the finer grade. Oase identifies the red foam as the fine grade and the blue foam as the coarse grade on the earlier sets. Selected current-generation filters also use a violet foam as part of their model-specific combination.

Once the filter matures, the internal surfaces support a biofilm of beneficial bacteria. These bacteria help convert toxic ammonia produced by fish and decomposing organic matter into nitrite and then nitrate. The foams therefore should not be expected to remain visually clean: a healthy, established filter normally looks used.

Foams cannot perform every water-treatment job on their own. The integrated UVC deals with free-floating algae that cause green water, while the pump, pipework and filter body determine how much water actually reaches the media. For best results, treat the filter, pump, UVC and return line as one complete system.

Cleaning versus replacing FiltoClear foams

Routine dirt removal is carried out with the FiltoClear cleaning handles and waste position, following the instructions for the exact filter. The foams are squeezed inside the closed filter so trapped sludge can be sent to waste without dismantling the unit every time.

Oase recommends replacing the foam at the start of the pond season in March or April for long-lasting results. We would combine that recommendation with a physical inspection during the spring service. Replacement is particularly sensible when a foam:

• stays flattened after the cleaning mechanism is released;
• has torn around the centre opening or outer edge;
• has hardened, become brittle or lost its original shape;
• no longer cleans effectively and causes rapidly returning restriction;
• allows visible bypass because it no longer seals correctly on the carrier; or
• has been damaged by chemicals, excessive pressure or incorrect storage.

Brown or dark staining on its own is not proof that a foam has failed. Staining is normal in mature biological media. Condition, resilience and water flow are more useful indicators than colour.

How to fit a replacement foam set safely

1. Identify the filter first. Record the complete FiltoClear model and compare the Oase part number in the table above.
2. Read the correct manual. Internal carrier and spacer arrangements differ between generations.
3. Electrically isolate the system. Switch off and unplug both the pond pump and the FiltoClear UVC before opening any part of the filter.
4. Relieve pressure. Never release the clamping ring while the filter is pressurised.
5. Photograph the original assembly. Record the foam order, spacers, carrier plates and orientation before dismantling it.
6. Inspect reusable parts. Check the carrier, foam distance plates, lip seal, lid O-ring and clamp rather than assuming the foam is the only worn component.
7. Rinse without detergent. A light rinse removes manufacturing dust. Do not use soap, disinfectant or household cleaner.
8. Reassemble in the specified order. Fit every colour, spacer and plate exactly as shown in the manual and do not force the lid or clamp.
9. Restart and inspect. Return the valve to the normal pond position, restore the pump, check for leaks and only then return the UVC to service in accordance with the manual.
10. Monitor the pond. Test ammonia and nitrite over the following days, especially on koi ponds, heavily stocked ponds or systems where all mature media was replaced at once.

Protecting biological filtration after replacement

A new foam set begins with very little established biofilm. Oase advises using a suitable filter-starting preparation after replacement to accelerate recolonisation. Our beneficial bacteria and filter boosters section contains options for new or recently serviced filters.

Starter bacteria support the process but do not make water testing optional. For the first days after a complete media change, feed sensibly and check ammonia and nitrite with a reliable pond-water test. If either rises, reduce feeding and act on the test result rather than adding several unrelated treatments.

If the filter still has poor flow after fitting new foams

New media will not correct a restriction elsewhere in the circuit. If flow is still weak, check the system in order:

• pump strainer cage and impeller for leaves, blanket weed or mineral build-up;
• hose for kinks, crushing, excessive length or an unnecessarily small bore;
• hosetails and reducers for internal restrictions;
• FiltoClear inlet, outlet and waste route for debris or an incorrectly positioned valve;
• internal carrier, spacers and cleaning components for incorrect reassembly;
• return pipe or waterfall for blockage and excessive lift; and
• leaks or air entering the pump inlet.

If the problem is green water rather than low flow, inspect the UVC lamp and quartz sleeve. A good foam set cannot compensate for an old lamp, scaled quartz or a UVC that is not operating. Compare the correct Oase FiltoClear quartz sleeve and our genuine FiltoClear replacement parts while the filter model is in front of you.

A sensible FiltoClear service checklist

• Confirm the model and foam part number.
• Check foam resilience, tears and shape.
• Inspect the lid O-ring and sealing surfaces.
• Check the clamping ring closes evenly without being forced.
• Inspect the quartz sleeve for scale, clouding, chips or cracks.
• Check the age and operation of the UVC lamp.
• Make sure the cleaning handle, rotor and waste valve move correctly.
• Clear pump and pipework restrictions.
• Restart in normal filtration mode and check every joint for leaks.
• Test pond water after substantial biological-media replacement.

Complete or upgrade the FiltoClear system

Browse the complete Oase FiltoClear pressure-filter range for current filters and pump-and-filter sets. If the filter body, lid, UVC head and cleaning assembly all require expensive work, compare the cost of several spare parts with a complete current model before ordering.

For other manufacturers and filter types, use our wider pond-filter spares, pond-filter media and pressure-filter sections. We are happy to check an Oase part number before dispatch if you send a clear photograph of the data plate.

Frequently asked questions

1. Which Oase FiltoClear replacement foam set do I need?

Choose the exact FiltoClear model printed on the filter data plate and confirm the Oase part number in our table. Do not select by pond volume, outside diameter or the nearest model number.

2. Where can I find the FiltoClear model number?

Look for the Oase data label on the filter head or body. Record the complete model name, not just the UVC wattage. If the label is unreadable, send us photographs of the filter from several angles, including the lid, electrical head, connections and internal foam carrier.

3. Can I choose the foam set from the size of my pond?

No. The pond-capacity number helps identify the filter but the media must be selected from the exact product model. Two ponds of the same size may use completely different filters and foam geometry.

4. Does the set include every foam for the selected filter?

Yes, each variation is the complete model-specific foam set supplied under the listed Oase part number. The table states the quantity and colour combination included for that model.

5. Are the carrier, spacer plates and seals included?

No. This product is the foam set. The internal carrier, distance plates, lip seal, lid O-ring, clamp and other hardware are separate service parts. Inspect them and use our genuine FiltoClear parts page if anything else is worn or damaged.

6. Will FiltoClear 30000 foams fit the FiltoClear 31000?

No. The earlier FiltoClear 20000 and 30000 share Oase part 51290. The current FiltoClear 31000 uses Oase part 77875 with a different foam combination.

7. Are FiltoClear 11000 and 12000 foam sets interchangeable?

No. Although both sets contain two red and three blue foams, Oase specifies part 56111 for the 11000 and part 51255 for the 12000. Matching the colour count alone is not sufficient.

8. Are FiltoClear 15000 and 16000 foam sets interchangeable?

Do not substitute them. Oase lists part 56884 for the 15000 and part 51258 for the 16000, even though both sets contain three red and four blue foams.

9. Can I use FiltoClear 5000 foams in an older FiltoClear 6000?

No. The current 5000 uses part 77872 with one red and one violet foam. The earlier 6000 uses part 56110 with three red and three blue foams.

10. What is the difference between red, blue and violet FiltoClear foams?

On the earlier Oase sets, red is the fine grade and blue is the coarse grade. Selected current models use a violet foam as part of their engineered combination. Fit the colours and order specified for the exact filter rather than trying to redesign the media stack.

11. Why does foam pore size matter?

Pore size affects particle capture, water resistance and the path water takes through the filter. Oase specifies fixed pore sizes so the filter can capture debris while maintaining a regular flow and working correctly with the built-in cleaning system.

12. Are genuine Oase foams safe for koi, goldfish and pond plants?

Oase states that the replacement foams are compatible with fish, plants and microorganisms when used as intended. Rinse lightly before fitting and never add detergent or household disinfectant.

13. How often should FiltoClear foams be replaced?

Oase recommends replacement at the start of the pond season in March or April for long-lasting results. During the spring service, also inspect whether the foam still springs back, holds its shape and cleans effectively.

14. Does brown or black staining mean the foams are worn out?

Not by itself. Staining is normal in established biological media. Replace the foam when it is physically deteriorated, permanently compressed, hardened, torn or no longer allows the filter to clean and flow correctly.

15. Can I clean FiltoClear foams with a pressure washer?

We would not. A pressure washer can tear the pore structure, distort the foam and strip away biological growth. Use the filter’s intended cleaning mechanism and follow the manual for any deeper service.

16. Can I wash established filter foam under the tap?

Untreated chlorinated tap water can damage beneficial bacteria. For any manual rinse of established media, use pond water where practical and avoid leaving the filter without circulation for an unnecessarily long time.

17. Can I use bleach, soap or disinfectant on the foams?

No. Household cleaning products can damage the material and may harm the pond when the filter restarts. If media has been exposed to a harmful chemical, replace it and deal with the source of contamination.

18. Can I replace only one damaged foam?

This product is supplied as a complete matched set. Replacing the set restores the specified colour combination and reduces the risk of leaving another compressed foam in the stack. If damage is very localised and you are considering a single foam, check the exact Oase spare arrangement first.

19. Will replacing every foam remove all beneficial bacteria?

It removes much of the established biofilm held in the old foam, although bacteria will also remain elsewhere in the pond and system. Treat a full replacement as a biological restart: use suitable starter bacteria, feed sensibly and monitor ammonia and nitrite.

20. Do I need filter-starting bacteria after changing the foams?

Oase advises using a filter-starting preparation to accelerate regeneration of the filter biology. It is useful support, particularly after complete replacement, but it does not replace water testing or sensible feeding.

21. Should I switch off both the pump and UVC before opening the filter?

Yes. Electrically isolate both units and relieve pressure before releasing the clamp or opening the filter. Follow the safety sequence in the manual for your exact FiltoClear generation.

22. Why is the flow still poor after new foams were fitted?

The restriction may be in the pump cage, impeller, hose, hosetail, valve, internal carrier or return line. Also confirm that every spacer and foam was installed in the correct order and that the valve is back in its normal filtration position.

23. Will new foam cure green pond water?

Not on its own. Foam removes suspended solids and supports biological filtration, while the FiltoClear UVC targets the free-floating algae responsible for green water. Check the lamp, quartz sleeve, flow rate and UVC operation as well as the foam.

24. Can I cut generic foam to fit a FiltoClear?

We do not recommend it. A roughly cut foam may bypass around the edge, place too much resistance on the pump or fail to compress correctly on the cleaning carrier. The genuine set provides the specified shape, pore grade and centre opening.

25. Does this listing include foam for FiltoClear 60000 or 90000?

No. This selector covers FiltoClear models from 3000 to 31000. The larger FiltoClear 60000 and 90000 use separate colour-specific replacement packs, so contact us with the model and required foam colour before ordering.