Red Sea MAX 250 User manual

MAX 250 |Temperature Control
For optimum conditions a reef aquarium should be maintained at a stable water temperature in the range of 24-28°C /
76-82°F (the stability of the temperature being more important than the exact value). Slightly higher temperatures can be
tolerated for short periods of time as long as the change in temperature is steady and not sudden.
Most reef-keepers consider the installation of a chiller to be a basic necessity as a safeguard against sudden increases in
temperature. Given the cost of livestock, Red Sea recommends installing a chiller as a safeguard against sudden increases
in temperature.
The MAX is a closed top aquarium which signicantly reduces the natural evaporation of water; however it also reduces the
cooling effect that is a natural part of the evaporation process.
The water cooling fans located at the back of the aquarium can be used to induce evaporation cooling of the aquarium
water however to be effective the water level in the lter compartment must be maintained between the minimum and
optimum levels i.e. 6-7 notches down from the top of the viewing window.
optimum
water level
With the correct water level and the water cooling fans operating 24/7, the MAX water temperature will rise approx 4°C
above room temperature
In a well ventilated room with a stable ambient temperature of approximately 22°C it should be possible to maintain the
water temperature within the required range by using the water cooling fans however above this temperature a chiller
may be necessary. In ambient temperatures of 23°C and above a chiller of at least 1/6HP should be used.
Keep it in the range!
24-28°C 
(76-82°F)

MAX 250 |Temperature Control
Directions:
1. Ensure the aquarium heater/thermostat has been set to 26°C and is working properly (refer to the manual for details).
2. Ensure the dual water-cooling fans at the rear of the aquarium are operating properly. Please note that these will wear
over time and are a consumable replacement. They are available from Max stockists and require no tools to replace.
3. Check that the lter foams are not pushed down on to the pumps, as this can restrict the ow of water, leading to
overheating of the pumps.
4. Use the ne-lter cartridge ONLY for short periods in order to ‘polish’ the water. The cartridge contains a ne-weave
pad which will block quickly if left in constant use, resulting in a restriction in water ow to the lter.
5. Using the water level viewing window on the left hand side of the aquarium, set the aquarium so the water level in
the lter compartment is between 6-7 notches from the top of the window. This is easily achieved as follows:
(a) Ensure the aquarium is lled to the recommended level
(b) Raise the lter shutter to its highest position
(c) Wait 2-3 minutes while the water level in the lter compartment stabilises and note the level in water level viewing
window.
If the water level in the lter is higher than 6-7 notches from the top, you should remove some water from the main
aquarium in small amounts until the desired level is achieved.
If the water level in the lter is lower than 6-7 notches from the top, you should add water to the main aquarium in
small amounts until the desired level is achieved.
In neither case should you use the shutter position in order to adjust the water level in the lter.
The aquarium water level should be monitored daily in order to evaluate, and if necessary top up the Max due to
evaporation. This will both maximise the effectiveness of the lter, and help to maintain a stable temperature.
If you are away from the aquarium for more than 24hrs you may need to lower the shutter slightly to allow for
evaporation. Please note however that this will reduce the water-cooling effect slightly and may increase overall water
temperature by approx 1°C.
If, as is recommended you add a chiller then a unit of approx 1/6Hp is ideal.
Refer to the manual for instructions on installation.
If a chiller is installed then the water level in the lter compartment should be raised to 3 – 4 notches below the top as
this will reduce the water loss due to evaporation.