Coralife Super Skimmers

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Summary

Important Safety Instructions

Caution

Basic safety precautions to be observed when operating the unit.

Warning

Critical warnings regarding electrical safety, pump operation, and unit installation.

Pre-Installation Setup

Hang-On Tank Mount Placement

Guidelines for positioning the skimmer when mounted on the aquarium rim.

Sump Hook-Up Placement

Instructions for installing the skimmer within or adjacent to an aquarium sump.

Installation Setup

Bubble-Production Diffuser Setup (Model 65 only)

Steps for installing the bubble-production diffuser, including filter pad and sponge.

Collection Cup Setup (Model 65 only)

Procedure for attaching the collection cup to the main chamber for Model 65.

Collection Cup Setup (Model 125 & 220 only)

Steps for assembling the collection cup, lid, and optional drain line for larger models.

Hang-On Mount Installation Setup

Detailed steps for installing the skimmer using the hang-on mount bracket.

In-Sump Installation Setup

Instructions for placing and connecting the skimmer within an aquarium sump.

Operation

Pre-Operation

Checks to ensure all connections are secure and the air-inlet silencer is properly positioned.

Initial Operation

Steps for starting the pump, checking for leaks, and breaking in the unit.

Dry Skimming Operation

Adjusting micro-bubbles for dry skimming and expected results.

Wet Skimming Operation

Adjusting micro-bubbles for wet skimming and expected results.

Maintenance

Daily Maintenance

Routine checks for secure connections, skimmer function, and waste removal.

Weekly Maintenance

Cleaning the collection cup, neck, sponge, and filter for optimal performance.

Troubleshooting

No Microbubbles Produced

Diagnosing issues with microbubble production, such as clogged air-inlet silencers.

No Foam Produced

Troubleshooting steps for when no foam is generated in the collection cup.

Water Pump Not Working

Steps to identify why the water pump is not functioning.

Skimmer Water Level Fluctuates

Resolving issues causing pulsing water levels, often related to tubing or vent holes.

Rapid Overflow into Collection Cup

Addressing problems causing the skimmer to overflow the collection cup.

12 Month Limited Warranty

What the Warranty Covers

Details on the warranty coverage for material and workmanship defects.

Exclusions

Conditions and damages that are not covered by the product warranty.

How to Enforce Warranty

Instructions on contacting the company and required documentation for warranty claims.

The Coralife Super Skimmer is a device designed for aquarium use, specifically for protein skimming, which is a method of removing organic compounds from water. It is available in three models: 65G, 125G, and 220G, with the pumps for these models being UL Listed, ensuring compliance with stringent U.S. and Canadian safety requirements.

Function Description

The primary function of the Coralife Super Skimmer is to remove dissolved organic waste from aquarium water. It achieves this by creating a dense foam of micro-bubbles, which attract and collect organic compounds. This foam then rises into a collection cup, where the concentrated waste material (skimmate) is separated from the water. The skimmer can be configured for either "dry skimming" or "wet skimming," allowing users to adjust the consistency and concentration of the skimmate based on their specific needs and water quality.

Important Technical Specifications

Models: 65G, 125G, 220G
Pumps: UL Listed (for 65G, 125G, and 220G models)
Pump Flow Rate: 650-750 gph (gallons per hour)
Tank Moulding Compatibility (Hang-on): Up to 1.125" for mounting brackets
Clearance Requirements:
- Hang-on Tank Mount: Minimum 8" between aquarium and wall. Unobstructed space for pump inside aquarium: 9"L x 4"W x 5"H.
- Sump Hook-up: Adequate space in/outside sump (12"L x 10"W). Minimum 1" clearance between underside of stand and top of skimmer for collection cup removal.
Tubing:
- Collection Cup Drain Tubing: 0.25" I.D. clear (Models 125 & 220 only)
- Air-inlet Silencer with Tubing: 0.25" I.D. clear
- Short Flexible Tubing: 0.625" I.D.
- Long Flexible Tubing: 0.625" I.D.
Power: Requires a grounded three-prong receptacle controlled by a GFI (Ground Fault Interrupter) circuit breaker for added safety.
Water Level Adjustment: Features a water-level adjustment dial for fine-tuning skimming operation. Model 65 also includes a flow control valve for coarse water level adjustment.

Usage Features

The Coralife Super Skimmer offers versatile installation options and adjustable operation to suit various aquarium setups and user preferences.

Installation Options:

Hang-on Tank Mount: Designed to hang directly on the back of an aquarium. Requires specific clearance and ensures the bubble-production diffuser is positioned correctly relative to the water line.
In-Sump Hook-up: Can be placed inside or outside a sump, providing flexibility for more advanced filtration systems. Requires adequate space within the sump area.

Setup and Assembly:

Bubble-Production Diffuser Setup (Model 65 only): Involves loading a white filter pad and black sponge into the diffuser, then inserting the appropriate mounting bracket (F or J) based on the aquarium or sump molding.
Collection Cup Setup: The collection cup securely attaches to the main chamber with an O-ring and threaded ring, ensuring a tight seal. Models 125 and 220 include a collection cup lid and options for a drain plug or drain tubing for an optional drain line, preventing overflow into a large capacity receptacle.
Tubing Connections: Various flexible tubings connect the water pump to the chamber intake, and the output tubing to the water output and bubble-production diffuser. All connections must be tightly secured to prevent leaks.
Water Pump Integration: The water pump (650-750 gph) is attached to the flexible tubing, drawing water into the skimmer. Model 65 includes a flow control valve for initial water level adjustments.

Operational Adjustments:

"Break-in" Period: After initial setup, the skimmer requires a 24-72 hour "break-in" period, during which it may produce excess bubbles and waste. The water-level adjustment dial should be set so micro-bubbles are below the collection cup cone during this phase.
Water Level Adjustment Dial: This dial allows users to raise or lower the water level within the main chamber and cone, directly impacting the skimming performance.
Dry Skimming: Achieved by adjusting micro-bubbles to 0.25" - 0.75" high inside the collection cup cone. This produces a dense, dark, concentrated foam (froth) with less volume of waste material.
Wet Skimming: Achieved by adjusting micro-bubbles to 0.75" - 3" high inside the collection cup cone. This produces a thin, light, diluted foam (wet wastewater) with more volume.
Air-Inlet Silencer: Must be kept above the water level and unobstructed to ensure proper air flow for bubble production.

Safety Features:

Drip-Loop: Always leave a drip-loop in the pump cord to prevent water from running down to the power source or outlet.
GFI Circuit Breaker: Recommended for added safety.
Submerged Pump: The pump must always remain submerged during operation to prevent damage.
Secure Installation: The Super Skimmer must be securely installed before operation.

Maintenance Features

Regular maintenance is crucial for the efficient and safe operation of the Coralife Super Skimmer.

Safety Precautions:

Always disconnect the needle-wheel pump from the power supply before any maintenance.
Only clean the skimmer with warm fresh water. Avoid using any chemical cleaning agents (soap, detergents, alcohol, glass cleaners, polishers, ammonia, etc.) as these can harm the aquarium environment.

Daily Maintenance:

Connection Check: Verify all tubing connections are secure.
Functionality Check: Observe the skimmer to ensure it is functioning properly and producing waste material. Adjustments may be needed due to changes in water quality.
Collection Cup Check: Inspect the collection cup for fullness and empty waste material as needed.
Vent Hole Check: Ensure the water outlet vent hole is clear of dirt and debris.
Air-Inlet Silencer Check: Verify the air-inlet silencer is clean and free of dirt and debris.

Weekly Maintenance:

Collection Cup Cleaning: Clean the collection cup and neck to remove organic build-up.
Sponge and Filter Cleaning/Replacement: Clean or replace the sponge and filter from the bubble production diffuser.

Monthly Maintenance:

Water Pump Cleaning: Clean the water pump according to the manufacturer's instructions for its proper installation, operation, and maintenance.

Troubleshooting Guidance: The manual provides a comprehensive troubleshooting guide for common issues, including:

No Microbubbles: Check for clogged air-inlet silencer or unplugged pump.
No Foam: Adjust water level, allow for break-in period for new skimmers.
Pump Not Working: Check power supply.
Water Level Fluctuations (Pulses): Check for clogged output tubing air vent hole (siphon effect) or output tubing being too deep in the bubble trap.
Rapid Overflow: Reduce water level, ensure proper water flow through output tubing, check for changes in water chemistry, or ensure output tubing is not pushed against the filter pad in the bubble-production diffuser.

The manual also lists variables that can affect skimming performance, such as new fish, feeding frequency, water chemistry changes, supplements, water quality, water fluctuations, make-up water, water changes, maintenance, and even inserting hands into the tank. The skimmer is designed for continuous operation, ideally 24 hours a day, for optimal efficiency.