Maintenance; Troubleshooting Tips - Fluval 14324 Instruction Manual

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MAINTENANCE

ATTENTION: Before placing hands in the aquarium,
always disconnect from the main power supply all
electrical aquarium devices immersed in water. Regular
cleaning and maintenance of the skimmer and the
foaming pump will guarantee better performance and
durability. To avoid shortening the life of the pump,
follow these simple maintenance procedures.
WARNING: Before removing the skimmer from the
installation, empty the collection cup to prevent the
waste from accidentally falling in the aquarium.
• Check the collection cup and clean it on a regular
basis.
• Periodically clean the inside of the skimmer with
water to remove any trace of algae. Only if necessary,
use a 20% solution of vinegar to remove algae or
calcium residue (which could inhibit foaming).
• The protein skimmer housing is made of 2 halves
that come apart for easy cleaning. Remove the housing
clips to separate the 2 halves. Then remove the pump,
electrical cord and airline from the rear housing to make
cleaning easier. Reassemble when done.
• Regularly, or when the airflow diminishes, clean the
air intake tube and the air intake valve (they could
become blocked with calcium, salt or dust residue).
• Special care should be taken when cleaning the
pump. Correct maintenance will guarantee durability of
the impeller and less noise. Calcium residue could form
between the shaft and the impeller, as in the impeller
chamber. These residues can cause friction, over-
heating and premature wear and tear compromising the
components and proper functioning. For this reason and
in case of calcium precipitation, soak the components
in a 20% vinegar solution for 30 minutes then rinse
thoroughly.
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TROUBLE SHOOTING TIPS
Note: Variables that can affect wet or dry skimming
action include:
• adding new fish
• frequent feeding
• change in water chemistry
• supplements and medication
• water quality
• water fluctuations/evaporation
• water changes
• maintenance
1. No bubbles being produced inside the skimmer
(reaction chamber):
• Air intake valve is not open at all or the airline tubing
is not attached to the pump.
• Water intake is clogged.
• Pump and/or needle-wheel impeller is clogged.
• Skimmer is not plugged in.
2. No foam is being produced inside the collection
cup:
• Check airflow and if necessary increase or open
completely.
• Adjust the water level inside the skimmer. If the water
level is fine, no foam may be normal as there is no
residue to skim and clear out. This is why, for short
periods of time there can be a lack of foam.
3. Pump is not working:
• Check to make sure power is supplied and/or unit is
plugged in.
• Check impeller for dirt or debris.
4. Noisy pump:
• Make sure the pump is not damaged. Check that it is
assembled correctly.
• Clean the pump by carrying out the procedures
described in the Maintenance section.
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