Keeping your aquarium glass crystal-clear and your décor free of algae used to mean parking your arm up to the elbow in tank water every weekend. Then came the “Moai” category—those smiling-stone-inspired magnetic cleaners that glide along the panes like tiny Polynesian statues on roller skates. They’re cute, sure, but in 2025 the internal tech has quietly become serious business: rare-earth magnets strong enough for ¾-inch low-iron glass, dual-density scrub pads engineered for acrylic, and even UV-stable housings that won’t leach micro-plastics. For newcomers and long-time reefers alike, the sheer variety of Moai cleaners can feel overwhelming. This guide walks you through the core science, hidden specs, and aquarium-safety nuances you must understand before clicking “add to cart,” so you can land a model that actually keeps your tank spotless without scratching the glass, stressing your fish, or melting in your hand.
Top 10 Moai Aquarium Cleaner
Detailed Product Reviews
1. FL!PPER Pico Aquarium Glass Cleaner – Magnetic Fish Tank Cleaner, Scrubber & Scraper, Algae Remover, Aquarium Cleaning Tools
FL!PPER Pico Aquarium Glass Cleaner
Overview: The FL!PPER Pico is a premium magnetic aquarium cleaner specifically engineered for small tanks up to 1/4″ thick. This innovative cleaning tool promises to revolutionize your aquarium maintenance routine with its patented flipping mechanism and dual-purpose design.
What Makes It Stand Out: The patented flipping action is genuinely ingenious—simply twist the external handle to switch between scrubbing pad and scraper without ever getting your hands wet. The rare earth magnets provide exceptional cleaning power while the compact design navigates tight corners effortlessly, making it perfect for nano tanks where maneuverability is crucial.
Value for Money: At $18.99, it’s nearly double the price of basic magnetic cleaners, but the build quality and flipping functionality justify the premium. The time saved and thoroughness achieved make it worthwhile for serious nano tank enthusiasts who clean weekly.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Positives include exceptional build quality, brilliant flipping mechanism, and corner-cleaning capabilities. However, it’s limited to tanks under 1/4″ thickness, making it unsuitable for larger setups. The scraper side can scratch acrylic tanks if you’re not careful.
Bottom Line: For nano tank owners seeking the ultimate cleaning tool, the FL!PPER Pico is worth every penny. The innovative design transforms what was once a tedious chore into an almost enjoyable task. While pricey, its performance and durability make it the best choice for small aquarium enthusiasts.
2. DaToo Aquarium Mini Magnetic Scrubber Scraper Small Fish Tank Cleaner Nano Glass Aquarium Cleaning Tools with Super Strong Magnet
DaToo Aquarium Mini Magnetic Scrubber
Overview: The DaToo Mini Magnetic Scrubber positions itself as a budget-friendly powerhouse for nano aquariums. Boasting impressive magnetic strength and versatile cleaning modes, this $5.92 tool aims to deliver premium performance at a bargain price point.
What Makes It Stand Out: The N38 NdFeB magnet technology is seriously impressive, claiming 2-3 times the cleaning force of competitors. The dual-texture design combines eco-friendly non-woven fabric with abrasive fibers for comprehensive cleaning. The fun mini-size design and ergonomic handle make it surprisingly comfortable to use.
Value for Money: At under $6, this represents exceptional value. The promised durability, permanent magnetism, and one-year warranty create serious bang for your buck. Even if it only lasts 18 months, it’s still cheaper than most alternatives.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The magnetic strength lives up to hype for glass up to 8mm thick, making cleaning effortless. The compact size reaches difficult spots easily. However, the marketing claims feel exaggerated, and some users report the magnet separating during vigorous cleaning. The abrasive side can leave micro-scratches on certain glass types.
Bottom Line: Despite questionable marketing hyperbole, the DaToo delivers solid performance at an unbeatable price. For budget-conscious aquarists or those wanting a backup cleaner, it’s a no-brainer purchase. While not quite the revolutionary product claimed, it reliably gets the job done.
3. Amviner Aquarium Glass Cleaner, 7 in 1 Algae Remover for Fish Tank, Aquarium Cleaning Kit with Long Handle, Aquarium Net, Algae Scraper, Sponge Brush
Amviner 7-in-1 Aquarium Cleaning Kit
Overview: The Amviner 7-in-1 Cleaning Kit transforms aquarium maintenance into a comprehensive activity with its modular, multi-tool approach. For just $7.99, you get seven interchangeable cleaning attachments designed to tackle every aspect of tank cleanliness.
What Makes It Stand Out: This kit’s versatility is unmatched—you get a scraper, fish net, sponge brush, hook, tube brush, and gravel rake all connecting to a 35″ extendable handle. The modular design means you can clean everything from glass walls to gravel without switching tools or getting wet.
Value for Money: At barely over a dollar per tool, this kit offers unprecedented value. Purchasing these items separately would easily cost $25-30. The extendable handle alone typically costs $10-15 in pet stores.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The variety of tools handles virtually every cleaning scenario. The extendable handle reaches tank bottoms without arm submersion. However, the plastic construction feels flimsy, especially when applying pressure with the scraper. The connections loosen over time, requiring frequent re-tightening. Some attachments, like the tiny fish net, are practically useless for mature tanks.
Bottom Line: For beginners or those wanting one-stop shopping, this kit delivers exceptional initial value. While individual tools won’t last forever, the versatility and low price make it worthwhile for casual aquarists. Serious hobbyists will eventually upgrade to sturdier individual tools.
4. Aqueon Aquarium Algae Cleaning Magnets Glass/Acrylic, Small, Black
Aqueon Aquarium Algae Cleaning Magnets
Overview: Aqueon’s magnetic algae cleaner targets both glass and acrylic tank owners with its universal design. Priced at $10.94, this mid-range option focuses on safety and ease-of-use rather than flashy features.
What Makes It Stand Out: The weighted design prevents the internal scrubber from floating away—a common frustration with basic magnetic cleaners. The curved cleaning pad adapts to both flat and curved surfaces, making it versatile for bow-front tanks. The automatic retrieval feature drops the internal piece straight down if magnets separate.
Value for Money: Positioned between budget and premium options, it hits a sweet spot. The build quality justifies the extra few dollars over basic cleaners, especially the weighted design that prevents lost internal pieces.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The universal glass/acrylic compatibility is genuinely useful for multi-tank households. The retrieval system works reliably, saving you from wet-arm fishing expeditions. However, the magnetic strength lacks the punch of premium cleaners, requiring multiple passes on stubborn algae. The curve-adaptable pad sometimes misses tight corners.
Bottom Line: Aqueon’s cleaner excels as a reliable, no-nonsense option for mixed-tank households. While not the strongest or most feature-rich, its safety-first approach and universal compatibility make it a solid choice for casual aquarists. The price reflects its dependable, middle-ground philosophy.
5. AQUANEAT Fish Tank Cleaning Tools, Aquarium Double Sided Sponge Brush, Algae Scraper Cleaner with Long Handle
AQUANEAT Double Sided Sponge Brush
Overview: The AQUANEAT sponge brush embraces simplicity with its basic double-sided design and 12.5-inch handle. At just $5.89, this purely mechanical cleaner targets budget-conscious aquarists who prefer straightforward tools.
What Makes It Stand Out: Sometimes less is more. The high-quality sponge effectively removes algae without scratching glass, while the non-slip handle provides secure grip during wet conditions. The hanging hole enables convenient storage—simple yet thoughtful touches often missing in ultra-budget options.
Value for Money: Exceptional value for money. This basic brush costs less than a coffee but lasts months with proper care. No magnets to lose strength, no moving parts to break—just reliable performance at bargain pricing.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The sponge texture effectively lifts algae without excessive scrubbing effort. The 12.5″ handle reaches most tank corners while keeping hands dry. However, its glass-only limitation disappoints acrylic tank owners. The handle length proves inadequate for tanks over 20 gallons, requiring arm submersion. The sponge deteriorates faster than scraper-based tools, typically lasting 6-8 months.
Bottom Line: For small-to-medium glass tanks, this budget brush delivers everything you need and nothing you don’t. While lacking the convenience of magnetic cleaners, its reliability and price make it perfect for beginners or as a backup tool. Sometimes simple solutions work best.
6. SLSON Aquarium Algae Scraper Double Sided Sponge Brush Cleaner Long Handle Fish Tank Scrubber for Glass Aquariums and Home Kitchen,15.4 inches (1)
Overview:
The SLSON Aquarium Algae Scraper is a budget-friendly manual cleaning tool designed for glass aquariums. This 15.4-inch scrubber features a double-sided sponge head and ergonomic handle, making it an accessible option for routine tank maintenance.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Its extra-long handle provides excellent reach for deep tanks without requiring arm submersion. The double-sided sponge design allows for versatile cleaning angles, while the hanging hole ensures proper drying and storage between uses.
Value for Money:
At $5.98, this scraper delivers exceptional value for basic algae removal. It’s significantly cheaper than magnetic alternatives while providing adequate cleaning power for light to moderate algae buildup.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths include affordability, simple operation, no risk of magnets demagnetizing, and suitability for beginners. Weaknesses encompass limited effectiveness on stubborn algae, restriction to glass tanks only, potential for scratching if debris gets trapped in sponge, and requiring hand/wrist submersion for lower tank areas.
Bottom Line:
Perfect for budget-conscious aquarists with standard glass tanks experiencing light algae issues. While it won’t replace heavy-duty scrapers for established tanks, it’s an excellent starter tool or backup cleaner for quick touch-ups between thorough cleanings.
7. AQQA Magnetic Aquarium Fish Tank Glass Cleaner, Dual-Blades Algae Scraper Glass Cleaner Scrubber, Double Side Floating Aquarium Magnetic Brush for 0.2-0.4 Inch Thick Glass Aquariums Tank (M)
Overview:
The AQQA Magnetic Aquarium Cleaner represents a significant upgrade from basic scrapers, utilizing rare earth magnets to clean both sides of glass simultaneously. Available in multiple sizes for different tank thicknesses, this tool eliminates the need for hand submersion.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Its innovative floating design prevents the internal piece from sinking if separated, while dual blades (stainless steel and plastic) accommodate both glass and acrylic tanks. The ergonomic handle and fabric/mini-hook cleaning surfaces tackle various debris types effectively.
Value for Money:
At $12.74, it offers solid middle-ground pricing between basic scrapers and premium electric options. The versatility of handling different tank materials and thicknesses justifies the moderate investment for serious hobbyists.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths include no hand wetting, effective dual-surface cleaning, floating retrieval system, and included blade options. Weaknesses involve potential magnet strength issues with thicker glass, risk of trapping sand particles causing scratches, and higher price point than manual alternatives.
Bottom Line:
An excellent choice for aquarists seeking convenience without premium pricing. Particularly valuable for those with multiple tanks or anyone wanting to maintain dry hands during cleaning. Ensure proper sizing for your tank thickness to maximize effectiveness.
8. AQUANEAT Aquarium Magnetic Brush, Glass Fish Tank Cleaner, Algae Scraper, Not for Acrylic and Plastic
Overview:
The AQUANEAT Magnetic Brush is an ultra-compact, budget-friendly magnetic cleaner designed for small aquariums up to 10 gallons. This tiny but mighty tool measures just 1.5″ x 1.2″ and provides basic magnetic cleaning capabilities at an unbeatable price point.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Its miniature size makes it perfect for nano tanks where larger magnetic cleaners would be cumbersome. The strong magnetic force ensures effective cleaning despite its small stature, while the dual-texture pads handle both interior algae and exterior dust.
Value for Money:
At $3.99, it’s among the most affordable magnetic cleaners available. For small tank owners, it provides magnetic cleaning convenience at manual scraper prices, making it an exceptional value proposition.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths encompass unbeatable price, ideal size for small tanks, simple operation, and dual-texture cleaning surfaces. Weaknesses include limited to tanks under 10 gallons, restriction to glass only, potential for small size making it easy to lose, and basic cleaning ability unsuitable for heavy algae.
Bottom Line:
The go-to choice for nano tank enthusiasts or anyone with small aquariums seeking magnetic cleaning benefits without the typical price tag. While it won’t tackle established algae problems, it’s perfect for regular maintenance and preventing buildup in compact setups.
9. QZQ Aquarium Gravel Cleaner [2025 Edition] Vacuum Fish Tank Vacuum Cleaner Tools for Aquarium Water Changer with Aquarium Thermometers Fish Net kit Use for Fish Tank Cleaning Gravel and Sand
![QZQ Aquarium Gravel Cleaner [2025 Edition] Vacuum Fish Tank Vacuum Cleaner Tools for Aquarium Water Changer with Aquarium Thermometers Fish Net kit Use for Fish Tank Cleaning Gravel and Sand](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51S+2N20RtL._SL160_.jpg)
Overview:
The QZQ Aquarium Gravel Cleaner [2025 Edition] is a comprehensive manual cleaning system that combines siphon-based water changes with gravel vacuuming capabilities. This multi-functional kit includes various accessories to tackle different cleaning tasks in one affordable package.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Its innovative manual pump design eliminates the need for mouth-siphoning or electricity while maintaining strong suction power. The included accessories—nets, thermometers, algae scrapers—transform it from a simple gravel vacuum into a complete maintenance kit.
Value for Money:
Priced at $18.79, it offers remarkable value considering the included accessories and versatile functionality. Comparable electric models cost significantly more, making this an economical choice for comprehensive tank maintenance.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths include no electricity requirement, comprehensive accessory bundle, protective filter preventing fish/gravel loss, and versatile functionality. Weaknesses encompass manual operation requiring physical effort, potential for inconsistent suction, plastic construction durability concerns, and learning curve for optimal siphon technique.
Bottom Line:
Ideal for budget-minded aquarists wanting maximum functionality without electrical complexity. Perfect for small to medium tanks where manual operation isn’t burdensome. The included accessories alone justify the price, making it an excellent starter kit for new aquarium owners.
10. Suness Electric Aquarium Vacuum Gravel Cleaner: 36W Fish Tank Cleaner Vacuum with Strong Suction for Water Change Wash Sand Algae Cleaner Water Shower and Water Circulation, Timed Off
Overview:
The Suness Electric Aquarium Vacuum Gravel Cleaner represents the premium tier of aquarium maintenance equipment. This 36W electric system combines water changing, gravel cleaning, filtration, and multiple specialized functions in one sophisticated unit with programmable operation.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Its 3-stage filtration system (sponge, bio-balls, activated carbon) returns cleaned water to the tank, minimizing water waste. The adjustable power settings and automatic timer provide customized operation, while the extensive accessory kit handles everything from gravel cleaning to turtle showers.
Value for Money:
At $69.99, it’s a significant investment but offers professional-grade functionality. For serious enthusiasts with multiple or large tanks, the time savings and comprehensive capabilities justify the premium pricing compared to manual alternatives.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths include powerful adjustable suction, water recycling capability, programmable auto-shutoff, extensive accessories, and suitability for all tank sizes. Weaknesses involve higher price point, complexity potentially overwhelming beginners, requirement for electrical safety awareness, and potential overkill for simple setups.
Bottom Line:
The ultimate solution for dedicated aquarists managing multiple tanks or large aquariums. While excessive for basic needs, it’s invaluable for those prioritizing efficiency and comprehensive cleaning capabilities. The water recycling feature alone can offset costs through reduced water usage over time.
Why the “Moai” Design Took Over Aquarium Maintenance Circles
Ask any reef-club veteran why the stone-head silhouette caught on and they’ll give you the same two-word answer: ergonomics and nostalgia. The elongated head gives your fingertips a natural ridge to push against, reducing wrist fatigue during the long sweeps across a 48-inch pane. Meanwhile, the Easter Island reference taps into the quirky side of aquarium culture—if you’re going to spend hours staring at glass, why not anthropomorphize the tool? But beneath the playful exterior is a clever engineering choice: the curved top acts like a keel, keeping the cleaner in full contact with the surface instead of nose-diving and scratching. In short, the Moai shape is more than Instagram bait; it’s a biomechanically smart lever you’ll thank yourself for after a 15-minute algae scrub.
Understanding Magnet Strength Ratings Without Breaking Your Glass
Magnet strength is expressed in Gauss or pull force (lbs), but neither number means much until you factor in glass thickness, brace placement, and water density. A 60-lb pull rated for ½-inch glass may feel sluggish on ⅜-inch because the magnetic gap shrinks. Conversely, throw the same cleaner on ¾-inch and you risk sandwiching substrate grit between the pad and glass, turning your adorable Moai into a diamond-tipped lathe. Always match the manufacturer’s suggested glass range exactly, then round down if your tank uses euro-braces or trim. Pro tip: measure glass thickness with a cheap vernier caliper, not the sticker on the stand—many “½-inch” tanks are actually 12 mm (0.47″) and that 0.03″ matters more than you think.
Glass vs. Acrylic: Picking the Right Pad Material on the First Try
Glass is hard—about 6.5 on the Mohs scale—so you can safely use a calcite-based scrubbing pad. Acrylic tops out around 3.5, meaning a mildly aggressive pad creates micro-scars that turn into cloudy nightmares under T5 glare. True acrylic-safe Moai cleaners use a loofah-cell polyethylene that feels almost slick to the touch, whereas glass-oriented pads have a mild grit you can detect by gently scraping your fingernail against the surface. Mixed-reef owners with acrylic tanks sometimes buy two internal pads—one acrylic, one glass—and swap them out when they move the cleaner from the main pane to the sump viewing window, a hack that saves both clarity and cash.
Float vs. Sink: Safety Features That Save You From a Retrieval Mission
Most mid-priced Moai cleaners now include neutrally buoyant foam, but “neutral” can vary depending on salinity. A cleaner that floats in 1.025 sg reef water may sink like, well, stone in a 1.004 brackish setup. The best designs add a micro-adjustment chamber—basically a twist cap that exposes or hides an air cavity—so you can fine-tune for your exact water chemistry. If the cleaner does get away from you, an internal stainless pin acts as a keel weight and flips the unit pad-side up so you can drag it home with the external magnet instead of netting it and smearing algae across your torch corals.
Navigating Scratch-Resistant Pads for Starfire and Low-Iron Glass
Low-iron glass is softer than normal float glass, a trade-off for that ultra-clear view. The iron depletion tweaks the silica lattice just enough that a standard glass pad sprinkled with trapped aragonite sand can leave hairline tracks. Look for Moai pads labeled “extra-low iron (ELI) safe;” they’re color-coded white or mint green. Under a loupe you’ll see a slightly tighter pore structure that prevents grit from embedding. Use them dry on a test glass slide first—any audible scraping means the pad picked up debris and needs a vinegar rinse before next dunk.
Corrosion Concerns: Which Internal Components Rust First
Stainless steel screws, neodymium magnets, and the brass rivets that pin the scrub pad can all corrode when the protective epoxy layer chips. Salt spray grabs the smallest breach and pulls iron ions straight to the water column, fueling ugly diatom blooms. Inspect the seam between pad and plastic every month; if you see orange freckles, retire the cleaner to a QT cup of RO water and citric acid for 20 minutes, rinse, then re-inspect. High-end Moai models now use titanium screws and a double over-mold that exceeds IPX8—cheap insurance if you run a high-iodine reef.
Size Classifications: From Pico to Public Aquarium Grades
Manufacturers release Moai cleaners in four broad size classes: nano (up to ¼ inch glass), standard (¼–½ inch), large (½–¾ inch), and jumbo (¾ inch and up). The nano versions swap magnets for a slim ceramic rotor—great for 3-gallon all-in-ones but useless if you upgrade to a 40 breeder. Plan two tank sizes ahead; magnet prices scale almost logarithmically, and you don’t want to rebuy just because you added a calcium reactor chamber and want a thicker sump pane.
Silent Operation: How to Avoid the Dreaded “Screech” During Cleaning
That fingernails-on-chalkboard screech often comes from harmonic chatter between magnet and glass, amplified by the hollow plastic housing. A silicone dampening ring—basically an o-ring wedged between magnet and shell—breaks the resonance. Some reefers DIY it with a slice of airline tubing; others buy aftermarket “quiet boots” sold in 3 packs. Either way, seat the ring flush or you’ll create a micro-gap that weakens magnetic force and makes the cleaner skate uncontrollably.
Compatibility With Rimless, Braced, and Tempered Tanks
Rimless tanks usually have 45° mitered edges that can chip if the Moai cleaner slams down at the wrong angle. Look for models with a rounded lower lip that acts like a skateboard ramp, guiding the unit gently onto the pane. Euro-braced tanks present the opposite problem: braces create a 1- to 2-inch dead zone. Cleaners with articulating hinges (basically a ball-and-socket joint inside) tilt up to 15°, letting you feather the outer magnet and sneak the inner half under the brace without losing attraction.
Ergonomic Handles, Grips, and Anti-Fatigue Engineering
Traditional block magnets force your palm flat against the glass—a recipe for cramps in large tanks. The head of a Moai cleaner gives your fingers a vertical surface to push, engaging larger muscle groups in the forearm. Soft-touch TPU overlays on the external shell reduce slip when wet, and ribbed under-grooves accommodate everything from toddler-sized hands to gloved mitts. For folks with arthritis, some brands offer an optional telescoping handle that screws into the top, converting the thumb-push motion into a mop-style glide.
Eco-Friendly Materials: Recycled ABS and Replaceable Pads Explained
The aquarium hobby is finally waking up to plastic waste; one cleaner per year × millions of tanks equals an island of polypropylene pads. Responsible brands now mold shells from 30 % post-consumer ABS and sell individual scrub refills. Refills attach via low-residue Velcro dots, letting you compost the worn pad (it’s just plant starch fiber) and snap in a fresh one. Over five years you’ll divert roughly 120 g of micro-plastics—tiny in absolute terms, but enough to keep a cleaner’s conscience as clear as the glass.
Cost-of-Ownership Over Five Years: Pads, Blades, and Spare Parts
Entry-level Moai cleaners ring up at $25–$35, yet replacement pads run $8 every six months and a new neodymium cartridge costs around $18 if you accidentally let it snap together and shatter its plating. Premium models at $70 include two spare pads, titanium hardware, and a five-year magnet delamination warranty. Amortized over five years, the high-end unit actually ends up cheaper—and you dodge the headache of supply-chain stock-outs when the budget brand inevitably discontinues its pad shape.
Pro Tips for Algae Prevention Between Cleanings
A Moai cleaner removes algae; preventing it is another story. Dial your photoperiod to 6–7 hours for new tanks, keep phosphates below 0.03 ppm with lanthanum chloride if necessary, and install a simple twist-timer on your refugium light so the Chaeto reverse-cycle actually happens. Give the front glass a two-second north-south swipe every morning before lights-on; it’s enough to knock off baby diatoms while they’re still soft, cutting deep-cleaning frequency by half.
Common Beginner Mistakes That Lead to Scratched Panes and Stressed Fish
The top rookie error is starting at the sand line—one trapped granule turns your magnet into belt sander. Instead, begin the pass two inches above the substrate, work upward, then descend in a separate stroke while holding the cleaner at a 30° angle so the pad rides on its own trailing edge. Second mistake: cleaning during peak photosynthesis when pH is highest; rapid scrubbing drives CO2 into the water and can swing pH by 0.2 in minutes. Schedule your algae attack in the late afternoon when levels are naturally lower.
How to Sanitize and Quarantine a Used Moai Cleaner
Buying second-hand gear is eco-smart, but cross-tank contamination is real. Start with a 1:10 household bleach dip for 10 minutes, air-dry for 24 h to allow chloramine off-gassing, then submerge in RO water with a triple dose of dechlorinator. Finish with a vinegar soak to dissolve any calcium scale on the magnets. Inspect the pad under 10× magnification for embedded snails or bristleworm spines—one overlooked stowaway can seed a tank faster than you can say “asterina.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use the same Moai cleaner on both glass and acrylic tanks if I swap pads?
Yes, as long as the magnet rating suits both glass thicknesses and you swap to an acrylic-safe pad each time.
2. What’s the easiest way to remove a cleaner that has fallen into deep substrate?
Slide the external magnet slowly toward the substrate; the internal unit should flip pad-side up and skate into view. Use a net only as a last resort.
3. Do stronger magnets shorten the life of the scrub pad?
Actually, yes—higher clamping force abrades foam cells faster. Rinse grit off after every pass to extend pad life.
4. Are floating cleaners better than sinking ones in high-flow reef tanks?
Neutral-buoyant models stay put better in surge zones, but ensure salinity matches the stated range or they’ll drift.
5. How often should I replace the internal scrub pad?
Every 3–6 months in reef systems, sooner if you see visible fraying or persistent algae streaks.
6. Will metal scraper attachments scratch low-iron glass?
Only if debris lodges between blade and pane. Use plastic razor blades for Starfire glass to stay safe.
7. Can I run a Moai cleaner on a tank with a background sticker?
Yes, but wipe horizontally first to prevent edges from peeling, and stick to low-friction pads.
8. Is it normal for the external handle to get warm during a long cleaning session?
Slight warmth is fine—neodymium magnets heat up under shear stress. If it’s hot to touch, stop and clean in shorter passes.
9. Do UV sterilizers affect the plastic housing over time?
UV-C can embrittle ABS; position the sterilizer so the cleaner isn’t bathed in direct light when stored.
10. Are titanium screws worth the price premium for freshwater tanks?
Freshwater lacks the ionic load of salt water, so standard stainless is usually adequate; upgrade only if you keep very soft, acidic water that corrodes metals faster.