My Tetra Whisper 20 Filter was on it's last leg so I went to the store to buy a Tetra Whisper 40. Anyway, the LFS owner(who is extremely knowledgeable) talked me into the Aqueon Power Filter 30. It was less expensive, supposedly flowed more water, and had some more innovative features which convinced me.

Anyway, I was installing it today in my 20 gallon tank and noticed that the way it's designed with the pump/motor in the front, allows part of the power chord(a couple of inches) to be submerged under water at the top of the tank. Can this be safe?!? I think it's a terrible design. I did not start it and put my beat up Tetra back. I am very leery of using this thing and am thinking of taking it back and getting the Tetra Whisper that I originally was planning to buy.

Anybody have this filter? Any thoughts on this submerged power chord design?

Probably not very helpful, but i've seen these in action before and the sales person told me its safe. I personally have the same issue as you, submerged power cords make me nervous.

I put couple of sticks under the filter to raise it a little and did not fill the tank all the way to the top like I usually do. I filled up to about 2inches from the top. Now the chord is just above the water level. I'm still not thrilled with the design but the filter works flawlessly and the fishes seem to love it from the increased activity. I thought my water was very clear but it looks sparkling clear now.

Will I let it be and got over the fear of the cord being partially under water. I will tell you it is a great filter. IMO a lot better than the Tetra Whisper that I had.