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6. Problems
Adjustment
The skimmer is adjusted using the flow control (Fig. 1, No. 4) so it works to the optimum.
The
water level in the skimmer is adapted to foam production. If the foam is too wet even when the
flow control tap is fully open, the neck extension (Fig. 1, No. 6) can be mounted to adjust the foam
production.
Air bubbles
Reduce the length of the hose between pump and skimmer. The pump should be placed close to
the surface otherwise, more water and less air will be sucked in because of the increasing water
pressure. Result: Many air bubbles are leaving the skimmer, wet foam will fill the foam cup in a
very short time.
If the skimmer is added to an existing aquarium, there may be a high concentration of organic
substances already dissolved in the water. This results in very tiny bubbles in the skimmer. These
tiny bubbles remove the organic substances effectively, however, it may happen that some of
these bubbles are drawn back into the aquarium. After a few days, the concentration of organic
substances will have decreased to such low levels that this effect will have gone and the water flow
is free of air bubbles.
Some types of frozen food may have the same effects. It is best to thaw and wash the food prior to
feeding it to the fish. The air bubbles will stop after a short period by themselves.
Wet foam
With freshly prepared sea water, after using water conditioners or at extremely high loading,
excessive wet foam may be produced. This wet foam is forced into the cup, requiring more
frequent emptying than normal. After approx. one day, the aquarium load will be normal and the
skimmer will produce correct foam.
Dry foam
Not enough or too dry foam could be an indication that the mesh wheel is dirty or the venturi pump
is obstructed. An accurate cleaning is recommended. Remove the hose connection from the
pressure side of the pump. If it’s not a problem of cleaning, increase water level inside the
skimmer by the flow control tap. Remove neck extension.
When there’s a problem, please make sure that the reduction (Fig. 2, No. 12) is installed.
7. Maintenance
The collection cup should be cleaned regularly (daily or weekly, depending on the organic load).
The reaction pipe of the skimmer needs to be cleaned only once or twice a year. The venturi pump
should also be cleaned from time to time. The pump has to be removed and the complete pump
housing and mesh wheel flushed with clean water. The same procedure should be undertaken with
the air injection nozzle.
