1. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the SUNSUN EW/HW-604B External Fish Tank Filter. This high-performance filter system is designed to provide efficient mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration for your aquarium, ensuring a clean and healthy environment for your aquatic inhabitants. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and operation to ensure proper use and longevity of your product.
2. Safety Information
- Always disconnect the power supply before performing any maintenance or cleaning.
- Ensure the filter is placed on a stable, level surface below the aquarium water level to allow for proper siphoning and flow.
- Do not operate the filter if the power cord or plug is damaged.
- This appliance is intended for indoor use only and for filtering water in aquariums.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Ensure the voltage of your power supply matches the voltage specified on the filter (110V or 220V).
3. Package Contents
Please check that all items are present and in good condition:
- Filter Barrel (including integrated pump)
- Water Inlet Components
- Water Outlet Components
- 16mm Fine Water Pipe (1.5m x 2 pieces)
- Multi-layered Filter Cotton (four-color set)
4. Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | EW-604B / HW-604B |
| Voltage | 110V or 220V (model dependent) |
| Power | 14 W |
| Flow Rate | 800 L/H |
| Max Head | 1.5 m |
| Inlet/Outlet Diameter | 16 mm |
| Product Dimensions (Diameter x Height) | 195mm x 365mm |
| Suitable for Tank Size | Below 0.8m (length/height) |
| Package Weight | 2.874 kg |
| Package Dimensions (L x W x H) | 35cm x 32cm x 23cm |
5. Setup Instructions
5.1 Filter Media Installation
- Open the filter barrel by unlatching the clips on the sides.
- Carefully place the multi-layered filter cotton into the filter basket. Ensure the layers are stacked correctly for optimal filtration (typically coarse to fine, with biological media if included).
- Close the filter barrel securely, ensuring the lid is properly sealed and all clips are latched.
5.2 Hose Connections
- Connect the two 1.5m fine water pipes to the inlet and outlet ports on the filter head. Ensure a tight fit to prevent leaks.
- Attach the water inlet components (intake strainer, extension tubes) to one end of a pipe.
- Attach the water outlet components (spray bar, return nozzle) to one end of the other pipe.
5.3 Filter Placement and Aquarium Connection
- Place the filter barrel on a stable surface below your aquarium. The filter must be lower than the water level for proper operation.
- Position the water inlet components inside the aquarium, ensuring the intake strainer is submerged and away from the substrate to avoid clogging.
- Position the water outlet components inside the aquarium, typically near the surface to create water movement and aeration.
- Ensure all hoses are free of kinks and securely fastened.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 Priming the Filter
Before starting the filter, it must be primed to remove air from the system:
- Ensure the filter is below the aquarium water level.
- Open any valves on the inlet hose (if present) to allow water to flow from the aquarium into the filter barrel. You should see the filter barrel filling with water.
- Once the filter barrel is full and water is flowing out of the outlet hose back into the tank (or if the filter is completely filled), close any valves on the outlet hose (if present).
6.2 Starting the Filter
- Once primed, plug the filter's power cord into a suitable electrical outlet.
- The pump will start, and water should begin circulating through the filter and back into the aquarium.
- Check for any leaks immediately after starting. If leaks occur, unplug the filter, check all connections, and re-prime.
7. Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for the efficient operation and longevity of your filter.
7.1 Cleaning Filter Media
- Disconnect the filter from the power supply.
- Close any inline valves on the hoses to prevent water spillage.
- Carefully detach the hoses from the filter head.
- Unlatch the clips and remove the filter head.
- Remove the filter media. Rinse the mechanical filter sponges (coarse, medium, fine) in old aquarium water (from a water change) to preserve beneficial bacteria. Do NOT use tap water as chlorine can kill beneficial bacteria.
- Replace heavily soiled or degraded filter media as needed.
- Reassemble the filter media, ensuring correct layering.
7.2 Cleaning the Pump Impeller
Periodically, the pump impeller may need cleaning to ensure optimal flow:
- Follow steps 1-4 from 'Cleaning Filter Media'.
- Locate and carefully remove the pump impeller from the filter head.
- Clean the impeller and its housing with a small brush to remove any debris or mineral buildup.
- Reinstall the impeller, ensuring it spins freely.
7.3 Reassembly and Restart
- Reattach the filter head to the barrel, ensuring a secure seal.
- Reconnect the hoses.
- Open any inline valves.
- Re-prime the filter as described in Section 6.1.
- Plug in the power cord to restart the filter.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No water flow / Filter not starting | Not plugged in; Air in system (not primed); Impeller jammed; Power outage. | Check power connection; Re-prime the filter; Clean impeller; Check power supply. |
| Weak water flow | Clogged filter media; Dirty impeller; Kinked hoses; Filter placed too high. | Clean/replace filter media; Clean impeller; Straighten hoses; Ensure filter is below water level. |
| Loud noise / Vibration | Air trapped in filter; Impeller damaged or dirty; Filter not level. | Re-prime to remove air; Clean/inspect impeller; Place filter on a level surface. |
| Water leakage | Improperly sealed lid; Loose hose connections; Damaged O-rings. | Ensure lid is securely latched; Tighten hose connections; Inspect and replace O-rings if damaged. |
9. User Tips
- Tank Size Suitability: This filter is effective for fish tanks with a length or height below 0.8 meters. For larger tanks, consider additional filtration or a higher capacity model.
- Pump Included: The filter barrel comes with an integrated pump, so no separate pump purchase is necessary.
- Regular Cleaning: To maintain optimal water clarity and filter efficiency, clean the filter media every 2-4 weeks, depending on your aquarium's bioload.
- Water Clarity: The filter is highly effective at clearing cloudy water, as demonstrated by before-and-after comparisons. Consistent use and maintenance will ensure crystal clear water.
10. Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the seller's policies or contact the manufacturer directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
