The Fluval U3 takes the Fluval Bio-Foam Pad for U3 Underwater Filter, 2-Pack (part A487) as its filter media; Australian sellers list it from A$2.48 each as of 30 October 2026. Fitment confirmed against the manufacturer's compatibility list.
Your aquarium filter
Fluval U3
Aquarium filter
Confirmed against Fluval's listConfirmed against Fluval's own compatibility list
Not yours? Change
Takes the A487 filter media
Bio-Foam Pad for U3 Underwater Filter, 2-Pack · check the code printed on your old filter before ordering.
Your aquarium filter
Aquarium filter
Confirmed against Fluval's listConfirmed against Fluval's own compatibility list
Takes the A487
Filter media · check the code on your old filter.
Other Fluval aquarium filters and their replacement media
The A487 fits the U3 only. These Fluval models take a different filter media:
GenuineGenuine Fluval
$5.44 each
2-pack $10.88
Aquarium Spare Parts · 30 OctLowest genuine · Aquarium Spare Parts · checked 30 Oct
CompatibleCompatible option
$2.48 each
6-pack $14.88
Aquarium Spare Parts · 30 OctAquarium Spare Parts · checked 30 Oct
Check sellerCheck seller details
Genuine: made by Fluval. Compatible: another brand.Genuine is made by Fluval. Compatible is made by another brand. Check the seller's page for the size and models it fits.
Lowest compatibleLowest compatible price · $2.48 each · 6-pack $14.88
Aquarium Spare Parts. Compare with genuine below. Some links earn us a commission. Some seller links earn us a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Other parts this aquarium filter takes
- Fluval BIOMAX for U2/U3/U4 Underwater Filter, 110 gOpen Aquarium Spare Parts$16.88
The biological media. Separate from the filter media. Reduces ammonia and nitrite, via the bacteria living on it (biological media).
- Fluval Poly-Carb Cartridge for U3 Underwater Filter, 2-PackOpen Aquarium Spare Parts$2.65 each · 6-pack $15.88
The carbon filter. Separate from the filter media. Reduces fine particles and dissolved impurities (polyester and carbon). Replace every month.
Compare 3 sellers - Fluval Clean & Clear Cartridge for U1/U2/U3/U4 filtersOpen Aquarium Spare Parts$27.88
The carbon filter. Clean & Clear cartridge: chemical media Fluval lists for the U series. Separate from the filter media. Reduces dissolved impurities (chemical media).
Compare 3 listings from 2 sellers
AUD, before delivery. Each price shows when it was checked.
Compatible options
1 seller
Opens Aquarium Spare Parts in a new tab. Their page is the source of truth for price, delivery and returns.
How long it lasts
Replace it as the filter's manual says; Fluval gives no set interval for this foam.
How to change the filter media in your Fluval U3
Watch the guide or follow the steps.
- 1Unplug the filter and lift it out of the aquarium.
- 2Open the filter and slide out the foam pad and the cartridge (U2 to U4 also hold BIOMAX).
- 3Rinse foam in water from the aquarium; rinse BIOMAX in aquarium water only: Fluval says never to rinse it with tap water.
- 4Fit the new Bio-Foam where the old media sat. Fluval says not to replace all filter media at the same time.
- 5Close the filter, put it back in the aquarium and plug it in.
Every number this part goes by
- Retail name:
- A-487
- Retail name:
- A487
Sellers list any of these; they are the same part.
About your Fluval U3
Fluval aquarium filter — U Series underwater filter. Its filter media is the Bio-Foam Pad for U3 Underwater Filter, 2-Pack, part A487.
Also in this aquarium filter:
- Fluval BIOMAX for U2/U3/U4 Underwater Filter, 110 g, Fluval Poly-Carb Cartridge for U3 Underwater Filter, 2-Pack (every month).
- Fluval Clean & Clear Cartridge for U1/U2/U3/U4 filters. Clean & Clear cartridge: chemical media Fluval lists for the U series.
Where the model number is: The model is on the filter's lid, motor head or a label on its side (Fluval 307, Eheim Classic 2215). For a tank with a built-in filter, use the tank's name.
Fits this Fluval model
Fluval1 model
Common questions
- Which filter media fits the Fluval U3?
- The Fluval U3 takes the Fluval Bio-Foam Pad for U3 Underwater Filter, 2-Pack (part A487). Compatible filters made to the same specification also fit.
- Where can I buy the A487 in Australia?
- We track 2 Australian sellers for the A487; the lowest listed price when we last checked was A$2.48 at Aquarium Spare Parts. Prices are re-checked daily and dated on this page.
- How do I fit the A487 in a Fluval U3?
- No tools, a few minutes: 5 steps, listed on this page with the replacement video where the maker has one.
- What happens if I don't change it?
- Spent carbon stops removing odours and discolouration, and clogged pads slow the flow, so the filter moves less water through the tank.
Something looks wrong with the U3 match? . Reports go to a person, not a bot.