Introduction
Welcome to your new Fluval SPEC Freshwater Aquarium Kit. This manual provides essential information for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your 2.6-gallon aquarium. Please read these instructions thoroughly before use to ensure proper functioning and the well-being of your aquatic life.
Image: Fluval SPEC 2.6 Gallon Aquarium Kit, front view, showcasing the integrated LED light and filtration compartment.
Safety Information
Important Safety Instructions:
- Read and follow all instructions carefully before using this product.
- Ensure the aquarium is placed on a sturdy, level surface capable of supporting the full weight of the filled tank.
- Always unplug all electrical components from the power outlet before performing any maintenance, cleaning, or handling of the aquarium.
- Do not operate the aquarium if any component, including the power cord or plug, is damaged.
- This product is intended for indoor use only. Do not expose to water or extreme temperatures.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Never immerse the LED lighting unit or transformer in water.
Proposition 65 Warning: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Package Contents
Your Fluval SPEC 2.6 Gallon Aquarium Kit includes the following components:
- 2.6-gallon etched glass aquarium with aluminum trim
- Glass aquarium cover
- High-output 7000K LED lighting system with all-aluminum, waterproof casing
- Safe, low-voltage transformer for LED light
- Circulation pump with adjustable output nozzle
- Foam filter block with handle (mechanical filtration)
- Activated carbon insert (chemical filtration)
- BioMax insert (biological filtration)
Image: Packaging for the Fluval SPEC 2.6 Gallon Aquarium Kit, showing product features.
Setup Instructions
1. Unpacking and Inspection
Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Inspect each item for any signs of damage. If any part is damaged, do not proceed with setup and contact customer support.
2. Placement
Choose a stable, level surface away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and drafts. Ensure the surface can safely support the weight of the filled aquarium, which is approximately 2.6 gallons of water plus substrate and decor.
3. Aquarium Assembly
- Rinse the aquarium glass and all internal components (pump, filter media, nozzle) with clean, dechlorinated water. Do not use soap or detergents.
- Place the clean aquarium on your chosen stable surface.
- Install the circulation pump into the designated rear filtration compartment. Ensure the pump is fully submerged and the output nozzle is correctly attached and positioned to direct water flow into the main tank area.
- Insert the filter media into the filtration compartment. The porous foam block typically goes first (closest to the water intake), followed by the activated carbon insert, and then the BioMax insert. Ensure they are seated properly.
- Position the LED lighting system securely on the aquarium rim, ensuring it is stable. Connect the low-voltage transformer to the light unit.
- Place the glass cover on top of the aquarium.
Image: Angled view of the Fluval SPEC 2.6 Gallon Aquarium Kit, showing the internal layout and filtration area.
Operating Instructions
1. Filling the Aquarium
Carefully fill the aquarium with dechlorinated tap water. Ensure the water level is appropriate for the filtration system to function correctly. The water level should typically be just below the top edge of the separator wall for the filtration compartment, allowing water to flow over into the filter.
2. Starting the Filtration System
Once the aquarium is filled, plug in the circulation pump. The pump should begin to circulate water through the filtration media and back into the main tank. Adjust the output nozzle to achieve the desired water flow and current within the aquarium.
3. Lighting System Operation
Plug in the LED lighting system. The light unit features a touch-sensitive switch located on top of the bar for easy control:
- One touch: Activates full-strength white and blue lights for optimal viewing and plant growth.
- Two touches: Activates blue lights only, ideal for a moonlight effect or nighttime viewing.
- Three touches: Turns the LED lighting system off.
4. Initial Cycling
Before introducing any aquatic life, it is crucial to cycle your aquarium. This process establishes beneficial bacteria that convert harmful waste products into less toxic substances. Consult a reputable guide on aquarium cycling for detailed instructions and recommended timelines. This typically involves adding a bacterial starter product like Nutrafin Cycle.
Maintenance
1. Weekly Maintenance
- Perform a 20% water change weekly. Use a gravel vacuum to remove any accumulated debris from the substrate.
- Always treat new tap water with a water conditioner (e.g., Nutrafin Aqua Plus) to remove chlorine and chloramines before adding it to the aquarium. Ensure the new water is of a similar temperature to the existing aquarium water.
- Rinse the foam filter block in old aquarium water to remove trapped particles. Do not rinse under tap water, as chlorine can kill beneficial bacteria.
2. Filter Media Replacement
Regular replacement of filter media is essential to maintain optimal water quality and filtration efficiency:
- Foam Filter Block: Rinse weekly during water changes. Replace every 2-4 weeks, depending on bioload.
- Activated Carbon Insert: Replace monthly. Activated carbon adsorbs impurities and odors but becomes saturated over time.
- BioMax Insert: Rinse with old aquarium water during water changes. Replace every 2-3 months. To maintain continuous biological activity, stagger its replacement with the activated carbon insert.
To enhance bacterial action, pour a dose of Nutrafin Cycle onto your filter inserts each time you change the media.
3. General Cleaning
- Clean the interior aquarium glass as needed to remove algae buildup using an aquarium-safe scraper or magnet cleaner.
- Wipe down the exterior of the aquarium and the LED light fixture with a damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Pump not running | Not plugged in, power outage, impeller jammed by debris. | Check power connection. Ensure power is supplied. Unplug and clean the pump impeller. |
| Cloudy water | New tank syndrome (bacterial bloom), overfeeding, insufficient filtration, decaying organic matter. | Perform partial water changes. Reduce feeding. Check and clean/replace filter media. Ensure proper cycling. |
| LED light not working | Not plugged in, faulty transformer, damaged LED unit. | Check power connection. Ensure transformer is securely connected and functioning. If damaged, contact support. |
| Excessive algae growth | Too much light (duration or intensity), excess nutrients (overfeeding, infrequent water changes). | Reduce lighting duration (8-10 hours daily is typical). Perform regular water changes. Reduce feeding. Clean glass. |
| Weak water flow from pump | Pump impeller clogged with debris, filter media blocked. | Unplug pump and thoroughly clean the impeller and pump housing. Check and clean/replace filter media. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Fluval SPEC III Desktop Aquarium Kit |
| Model Number | 10515A1 |
| Tank Volume | 2.6 Gallons |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 11.8" x 10.8" x 8.7" |
| Material | Glass |
| Lighting | High-output 7000K LED |
| Filtration | 3-Stage (Mechanical, Chemical, Biological) |
| Item Weight | 9.9 pounds (4.5 kg) |
| Manufacturer | Rolf C. Hagen (USA) Corp. |
Image: Diagram illustrating the dimensions of the Fluval SPEC 2.6 Gallon Aquarium Kit.
Warranty and Support
Warranty Information
This Fluval SPEC Freshwater Aquarium Kit is covered by a Manufacturer Warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product for specific terms, conditions, and duration of coverage. Retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Customer Support
For further assistance, troubleshooting, replacement parts, or any other inquiries, please visit the official Fluval website or contact Rolf C. Hagen (USA) Corp. customer service. Contact information can typically be found on the product packaging or the manufacturer's website.
