TMC V2Skim Series User manual

INSTRUCTIONS FOR INSTALLATION AND USE
Important Safety Information - Please Read Carefully
- This skimmer is supplied with a high performance pump. Please read
carefully the safety information supplied with the pump before installing.
- Always isolate the pump from the mains electricity before installing or carrying out
any maintenance to the skimmer.
- Power to the pump must be supplied through a Residual Current Device (RCD) with
a rated residual operating current not exceeding 30mA.
- The pump is designed to run completely submerged in water - do not run the pump dry.
- To ensure the pump continues to maintain a steady water flow, it must be cleaned
regularly to ensure it does not become clogged with debris or detritus.
- Pump rating: 220-240V, 50Hz unless marked otherwise.
- Do not operate any appliance if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it is malfunctioning,
or if it has been dropped or damaged in any way.
- This unit is designed to be used indoors and is not suitable for any outdoor
applications.
- Ensure the skimmer is securely installed before operating.
- Always leave a drip-loop in the pump cable to prevent water running down
the cable and reaching the power source (see picture below).
- Dispose of this unit responsibly. Check with your local authority for disposal
information.
Drip-loop
Pump Aquarium
V2Bubble Stop
!
Protein Skimmers
Typical Installation

1
2
17
16
3
4
7
9
10
12
14
15
11
13
PARTS LI ST
B
(mm)
C
(mm)
D
(mm)
E
(mm)
F
(mm)
G
(mm)
H
(mm)
I
(mm)
J
(mm)
K
(mm)
V
2
Skim 400
435 120 85 255 110 185 105 250 17 50 60 160
V
2
Skim 600
510 135 105 285 130 230 165 283 20 50 80 180
V
2
Skim 800
510 180 125 225 160 285 185 225 30 50 102 205
V
2
Skim 1000
610 180 125 325 160 285 185 325 30 50 102 205
V
2
Skim 1200
540 200 150 225 190 320 215 225 30 50 117 230
V
2
Skim 1500
640 200 150 325 190 320 215 325 30 50 117 230
A
(mm)
L
(mm)
24
Outlet hose assembly = 290mm long
Inlet pipe hose assembly = 330mm long
8
see
p.4
*
18 20
22 23
21
19
2
1. Collection Cup Lid
2. Collection Cup
3Water Level Adjustment Dial
4. Water Outlet
5. Outlet Pipe Assembly (part no. 5366)
6. Inlet Pipe Hose Assembly (part no. 5365)
7. Water Inlet
8. V2Skim Securing Screws (part no. 5369 - sold separately)
9. Main Skimmer Body
10. Venturi Injection Assembly
11. Venturi Air Inlet Connection Tube (on models 800-1500 only)
(part no. 5370)
12, Hanger
13. Venturi Air Intake Silencer (on models 800-1500 only)
14. Air Inlet
15. Collection Cup O Ring (on models 600-1500 only) (part no. 5364)
16. Drain Port (on models 800-1500 only)
17. Collection Cup Cone
13
DIMENSIONS
Footprint
Hanger
E
H
J
D
A
G
F
B
L
C
K
To p v i e w
Side view
65
18. V2Bubble Stop Black Sponge Filter
(models 400-600 - part no. 5360/models 800-1500 - part no. 5362)
19. V2Bubble Stop White Sponge Filter
(model 400-600 - part no. 5361/models 800-1500 - part no. 5363)
20. V2Bubble Stop
21. V2Bubble Stop Mounting Bracket option 1
22. V2Bubble Stop Mounting Bracket option 2
23. V2Bubble Stop Securing Screw (part no. 5368)
24. Collection Cup Drain Hose (on models 800-1500 only) (part no. 5367)
I

SKIMMER ASSEMBLY
The V2Skim Protein Skimmer is supplied almost fully assembled to ensure the skimmer
is ready to use as soon as possible after unpacking.
1. Ensure the skimmer collection cup (2) and lid (1) are securely and correctly
positioned on the main skimmer body (9) and on models 600-1500 please check
that the skimmer collection cup O ring (15) is also positioned correctly.
2. Attach the outlet pipe assembly (5) to the water outlet (4).
3. Attach the inlet pipe hose assembly (6) to the water inlet (7)
V2BUBBLE STOP ASSEMBLY
1. Select the correct mounting bracket (21 or 22) for your aquarium and insert bracket
into the slot located at the back of the V2Bubble Stop.
2. Insert the screw (23) on the mounting bracket for later use.
INSTALLATION
The versatile design allows the V2Skim Protein Skimmer to be used either externally as a
!hang-on"skimmer or internally in a sump or aquarium.
A. !HANG-ON" INSTALLATION
1. Ensure there is adequate space around the
aquarium or sump to allow the skimmer to be
installed.
2. Ensure that there is an adequate unobstructed
space for the pump inside the aquarium.
3. Place pump in aquarium. For maximum performance
do not locate the pump more than 20cm below
the water inlet of the skimmer.
USEFUL TIP: Use the suction cup bracket provided
with the pump to secure the pump on the side of
your aquarium directly below the inlet of your
V2Skim Protein Skimmer.
4. Hang the V2Skim Protein Skimmer on the side of
your aquarium in the desired location and tighten the securing screws (8).
5. Connect pump to skimmer using the inlet pipe hose assembly (6).
USEFUL TIP: There are a number of fittings and accessories supplied with the pump
which allow for easy connection of the inlet pipe hose assembly to the pump.
5. Attach the V2Bubble Stop mounting bracket onto the side of your aquarium so the
outlet pipe assembly (5) of the skimmer can be easily located.
6. Insert outlet pipe assembly into the V2Bubble Stop and tighten
V2Bubble Stop securing screw (23).
7. On models 800-1500 there is a drain port (16) fitted in the base
of the collection cup which allows skimmate (waste material) to
be drained to waste.When using this port, remove the rubber
drain plug and fit the supplied collection cup drain hose (24) so
that skimmate can be easily drained away. Please note that longer lengths of drain
hose are available from your local stockist, if required (part no. 5367).
20cm
Water
Pump
V2Bubble Stop Aquarium
Outlet pipe
assembly
Screw
V2Bubble
Stop
Water outlet
3

B. IN SUMP/AQUARIUM INSTALLATION
1. Make sure you leave enough room for the skimmer inside the sump or aquarium.
2. Allow sufficient clearance above the skimmer to ensure that the collection cup can
be removed for cleaning, maintenance etc.
3. Fill the skimmer with sufficient sump or aquarium water to prevent the skimmer
from floating when placed in the sump or aquarium.
4. Place pump in a suitable location in the sump or aquarium and connect pump to
skimmer using the inlet pipe hose assembly (6). For maximum performance do not
locate the pump more than 20cm below the water inlet of the skimmer.
USEFUL
TIP: Use the suction cup bracket provided with the pump to secure the
pump in your aquarium.There are also a number of fittings and accessories
supplied with the pump which allow for easy connection of the inlet pipe hose
assembly to the pump.
5. Attach the V2Bubble Stop mounting
bracket (21 or 22) inside sump.
6. Insert the outlet pipe assembly (5)
into the V2Bubble Stop and tighten
V2Bubble Stop securing screw (23).
USEFUL TIP: If the height of your sump
does not allow the V2Bubble Stop to
be positioned in the desired location
use two cable ties to secure the
V2Bubble Stop to the upright, fixed
outlet pipe directly below the outlet
(see *on Parts List diagram).
OPERATION
1. Make sure all connections are tightly secured.
2. Ensure the skimmer collection cup (2) and lid (1) are
securely and correctly positioned on the skimmer body (9).
3. Turn the water level adjustment dial (3) to make sure it is in
the lowest position.
INITIAL OPERATION
1. Plug in and switch on the pump.
On models 800-1500 please note that due to the
unique design of the removable venturi injection assembly
(10) some water may escape from the joint between the
fixed pipe and removable assembly on initial start up. This
does not affect the performance of the skimmer.
2. Turn water level adjustment dial until the micro-bubbles fill approx. 50% of the neck
below the collection cup (see diagram). Let the pump run for 24-48 hours to
allow the skimmer to establish itself.
3. Once the skimmer has been established, turn the water level adjustment dial to control
the water level within the main chamber and cone to the desired foam consistency.
Water Level Adjustment Dial
Higher Water Level
Lower Water Level
Collection
Cup Cone
Level of
Micro Bubbles
Water
Sump/Aquarium
Pump
4
20cm

DRY SKIMMING
1. Turn water level adjustment dial (3) until the micro-bubbles
fill approx. 10-15% of the collection cup cone (see diagram).
2. The micro-bubbles produce a dense foam layer which
rises to the top of the cone where it collects until the
dry foam overflows into the collection cup.
3. The result is a dry foam, consisting of concentrated waste
material.
WET SKIMMING
1. Turn water level adjustment dial (3) until the micro-bubbles
fill approx 50% of the collection cup cone (see diagram).
2. Wet foam is produced and rises to the lid then slides
down the collection cup cone as wet waste water.
3. The result is a wet foam consisting of diluted waste
material.
NOTE: Variables such as introducing new fish or invertebrates into the aquarium,
frequent feeding, adding supplements or medications, fluctuations in water quality,
water changes and maintenance may temporarily alter the performance of the V2Skim
Protein Skimmers.
USE WITH OZONE
V2Skim Protein Skimmers are suitable for use with ozone. By connecting the outlet of
the ozone generator to the air inlet (14) of the V2Skim Protein Skimmer, using ozone
resistant tubing (not supplied), the V2Skim"s patented venturi injection system will
automatically draw ozone gas into the main body of the skimmer.
USEFUL TIP: Although ozone gas enhances the skimming process, should a reduction in
skimming performance be noticed following the addition of an ozone generator there
is a good chance that the ozone generator is either blocked or is limiting the amount
of air being drawn into the venturi injection system. This problem is easily overcome
by installing an air pump on the inlet of the ozone generator, thereby increasing the
level of air flowing through the ozone generator.
USEFUL
TIP: When using ozone, the V2Bubble Stop can be used (without the filter
sponges) to house media, such as carbon, which is useful for filtering out any residual
ozone. V2Filter Media Bags are ideal for this purpose and are available separately
(part no. 5229).
Caution:Ozone is dangerous and should be used with care. Always refer to the
instructions and safety guidelines of the ozone generator manufacturer.
Collection
Cup Cone
Level of
Micro Bubbles
Collection
Cup Cone
Level of
Micro Bubbles
5

MAINTENANCE
Caution: To avoid possible electric shock, special care should be taken
when using this electrical appliance near water.
Caution: Always isolate the pump from mains electricity before installing or carrying
out any maintenance to the skimmer.
V2Skim Protein Skimmers should need very little adjustment and maintenance once
set up correctly. However due to salt deposits and the high calcium level in marine
aquariums it is common for deposits to build up and therefore it is recommended that
the skimmers are cleaned periodically.
1. To operate efficiently, the skimmer must be in use 24 hours a day.
2. Make sure all connections are tightly secured.
3. Check regularly if skimmer is functioning properly and producing the desired foam
consistency and waste material.
4. When the collection cup is full, ensure all waste material is removed.
5. Remove collection cup (see below) and clean any organic build up or salt and/or
calcium deposits from the collection cup and neck.
6. Ensure the outlet and inlet pipe assemblies and the air inlet are clean and free of
blockages.
7. Clean and periodically replace the V2Bubble Stop sponges.
8. Clean the pump regularly to ensure it does not become clogged with debris or
detritus (refer to pump instructions for full maintenance instructions).
9. On models 800-1500 the venturi injection assembly (10) can be removed to allow
easier cleaning and maintenance. This is achieved by simply twisting the assembly
clockwise and gently pushing downwards until the assembly is released from the
main pipework. Please note: to fully remove the venturi injection assembly from
the skimmer you must first disconnect the venturi air inlet connection tube (11).
10. On models 600-1500, when carrying out routine maintenance ensure that the
collection cup O ring (15) is correctly positioned and free from any dirt, detritus,
salt and/or calcium deposits. Failure to do so could result in leaks when the
water pump is switched on.
USEFUL TIP: On models 600-1500, during routine maintenance it is advisable to
ensure that the collection cup O ring is checked for any signs of degradation and
replaced accordingly. Spares are available from your local stockist (part no. 5364).
Tw i s t a n d l i f t
the collection
cup to remove
Removable
Ventur i
Injection
Assembly
(on models
800-1500)
Tw i s t c o l l a r t o
remove/attach
collection cup
V2Skim 400 V2Skim 600-1500
6

TRO UBL E SH OOTING
Problem: The skimmer is not working properly
1. Possible Cause:Water level is too low.
Solution:Alter water level adjustment dial accordingly.
2. Possible Cause:Air inlet tube is blocked.
Solution: Remove and check for blockage and clean as required.
3. Possible Cause: Pump is not plugged in or is not operating correctly.
Solution: See pump section below
Problem: Skimmer water level fluctuates
1. Possible Cause:The air intake port of the outlet pipe assembly is clogged causing the
skimmer to create a siphon from the outlet tube.
Solution: Remove and check for blockage and clean as required.
Problem: Pump is not operating correctly
Caution: Always isolate the pump from mains electricity before installing or carrying out any
maintenance to the pump and refer to the pump operation, maintenance and safety instructions
supplied with the pump.
1. Possible Cause: Pump is not plugged in.
Solution: Ensure pump is connected to power supply and switched on.
2. Possible Cause: Pump is blocked with dirt and debris.
Solution: Clean the pump to remove dirt and debris (refer to pump instructions for full
maintenance instructions).
Problem: No air bubbles (or ver y few) are being produced inside the skimmer
1. Possible Cause: The air tube to the venturi is not attached.
Solution: Re-attach venturi air inlet connection tube (11).
2. Possible Cause: The air inlet of the venturi chamber is clogged.
Solution: Remove and check for blockage and clean as required.
3. Possible Cause: Pump is not operating or performing correctly.
Solution: See pump section above and check pump position (see diagrams on p.3 & 4).
Problem: No foam is being produced inside the collection cup
1. Possible Cause:Water level inside the chamber needs to be adjusted.
Solution:Alter water level adjustment dial accordingly.
2. Possible Cause: Skimmer has just been installed and may take up to 24hrs to adjust
properly to aquarium system.
Solution: Let the pump run for 24-48 hours to allow the skimmer to establish itself.
Problem: Water is rapidly overflowing into the collection cup
1. Possible Cause: Water level may be too high.
Solution:Alter water level adjustment dial accordingly.
2. Possible Cause:Water is not being discharged through outlet hose assembly.
Solution: Remove and check for blockage and clean as required.
3. Possible Cause:V2Bubble Stop may need maintenance.
Solution: Clean or replace the V2Bubble Stop sponges.
7

Tro pi ca l M ar i ne Ce nt re ,
Solesbridge Lane,
Chorleywood,
Hertfordshire,WD3 5SX.
Te c h n i c a l I n f o r m a t i o n L i n e s
Te l : + 4 4 ( 0 ) 1 9 2 3 2 8 4 1 5 1 F a x : + 4 4 ( 0 ) 1 9 2 3 2 8 5 8 4 0
Open between
9am - 5pm Monday to Thursday/9am - 12pm Friday.
Website: www.tmc-ltd.co.uk Email: [email protected]
AQUARIUM VOLUMES AND FLOW RATES
V2Skim 400
For aquariums up to 400 litres/90 UK Gallons with a recommended flow rate of
approximately 2400l/hr
V2Skim 600
For aquariums up to 600 litres/130 UK Gallons with a recommended flow rate of
approximately 2400l/hr
V2Skim 800
For aquariums up to 800 litres/180 UK Gallons with a recommended flow rate of
approximately 2800l/hr
V2Skim 1000
For aquariums up to 1000 litres/220 UK Gallons with a recommended flow rate of
approximately 2800l/hr
V2Skim 1200
For aquariums up to 1200 litres/260 UK Gallons with a recommended flow rate of
approximately 3400l/hr
V2Skim 1500
For aquariums up to 1500 litres/330 UK Gallons with a recommended flow rate of
approximately 3400l/hr