1. Introduction
The Ubbink FiltraClear 2500 PlusSet is a complete gravity filtration unit designed for ponds up to 2500 liters without fish. This system provides essential mechanical and biological filtration, combined with a UVC unit, to maintain clear and healthy pond water. This manual provides instructions for the safe installation, operation, and maintenance of your FiltraClear 2500 PlusSet.
This image shows the retail packaging for the Ubbink FiltraClear 2500 PlusSet. The box highlights key features such as the UVC unit, pump, and suitability for ponds up to 2500 liters.
2. Package Contents
Please check the package contents carefully upon unpacking. The FiltraClear 2500 PlusSet includes the following components:
- 1x FiltraClear 2500 Gravity Filter Unit (2 chambers)
- 1x UVC Unit (5W)
- 1x Elimax 500 Pond Pump
- 1x Zeolith Filter Media
- 1x Connection Hose (3 meters, for pump to filter)
- 1x Discharge Pipe (1 meter, for filter to pond)
- Clamps and End Caps (necessary for connections)
3. Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | UBBINK |
| Part Number | 1355164 |
| Model Number | 1355164 |
| Pond Volume (without fish) | Up to 2500 liters |
| UVC Power | 5W |
| Pump Model | Elimax 500 |
| Number of Filter Chambers | 2 |
| Weight | 31 Kilograms |
| First Available Date | February 3, 2015 |
4. Safety Instructions
Always observe the following safety precautions to prevent injury or damage:
- Electrical Safety: Ensure all electrical connections are waterproof and protected from moisture. Always disconnect power before performing any maintenance or installation.
- UVC Unit: Never look directly into the UVC lamp when it is operating, as UV radiation can cause eye damage. The UVC unit must only be operated when fully submerged or enclosed within the filter housing.
- Placement: Position the filter and pump on a stable, level surface. The filter unit must be placed above the pond's water level for gravity return.
- Children and Pets: Keep children and pets away from the pond equipment during operation and maintenance.
- Damage: Do not operate the unit if any part is damaged, especially electrical cables or the UVC lamp. Contact customer support for replacement parts.
5. Setup
Follow these steps to set up your FiltraClear 2500 PlusSet:
- Positioning the Filter: Place the FiltraClear 2500 filter unit on a stable, level surface next to your pond. Ensure the filter's outlet is positioned so that filtered water can flow back into the pond by gravity. The top edge of the filter must be above the pond's water level.
- Installing the Pump: Place the Elimax 500 pump in the deepest part of your pond, ensuring it is stable and not drawing in excessive debris from the pond bottom.
- Connecting the Pump to the Filter: Connect one end of the 3-meter connection hose to the outlet of the Elimax 500 pump. Secure it with a clamp. Connect the other end of this hose to the inlet of the FiltraClear 2500 filter unit. Secure this connection with a clamp.
- Installing the UVC Unit: The 5W UVC unit is integrated into the filter housing. Ensure the UVC lamp is correctly seated and the quartz sleeve is clean and undamaged.
- Connecting the Filter to the Pond: Connect the 1-meter discharge pipe to the outlet of the FiltraClear 2500 filter unit. Secure it with a clamp. Direct the other end of this pipe into your pond, ensuring the filtered water returns smoothly.
- Electrical Connections: Once all hoses are securely connected and the filter is correctly positioned, connect the pump and UVC unit to a suitable, weatherproof outdoor power outlet. Ensure a drip loop is formed with the cables to prevent water from running into the outlet.
This diagram provides an overview of different Ubbink pond filtration setups, including pumps, filters, and UVC units. It visually represents how components connect and function within a pond environment, showing small, medium, and large pond configurations, as well as waterfall and cascade options. The FiltraClear 2500 PlusSet components are part of these general system types.
6. Operating Instructions
After successful setup, follow these steps for initial operation:
- Initial Start-up: Plug in the power cords for both the pump and the UVC unit. The pump will begin to draw water from the pond and transport it to the filter. Water will then flow through the filter media and the UVC unit before returning to the pond.
- Monitoring: Observe the water flow from the filter outlet. Ensure there are no leaks and that water is flowing freely.
- UVC Indicator: The UVC unit typically has a small indicator light to show that the lamp is operating. Do not look directly at the UVC lamp.
- Continuous Operation: For optimal pond health, the filter system should operate continuously, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, during the pond season.
7. Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for the efficient operation and longevity of your filter system:
- Filter Media Cleaning: Periodically check the filter media (sponges, Zeolith). When they become heavily soiled and water flow is reduced, clean them by rinsing with pond water (not tap water, to preserve beneficial bacteria). Frequency depends on pond load, typically every 2-4 weeks.
- UVC Lamp Replacement: The effectiveness of the UVC lamp diminishes over time. Replace the 5W UVC lamp approximately every 8000 operating hours or annually, preferably in spring, to ensure optimal algae control.
- Quartz Sleeve Cleaning: When replacing the UVC lamp, also clean the quartz sleeve that protects the lamp. Use a soft cloth and a mild cleaning solution to remove any mineral deposits or algae buildup.
- Pump Cleaning: Disconnect the pump from power. Remove the pump from the pond and disassemble it according to the pump's specific instructions. Clean the impeller and pump housing to remove any debris or calcium buildup.
- Winterization: Before the first frost, disconnect and clean the pump, UVC unit, and filter. Store them in a frost-free location. Drain all water from hoses and the filter unit to prevent freezing damage.
8. Troubleshooting
Here are some common issues and their solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Reduced water flow from filter | Clogged filter media or pump impeller | Clean filter media and pump impeller. Check hoses for blockages. |
| Pond water remains cloudy/green | UVC lamp ineffective, filter media saturated, or pond overloaded | Replace UVC lamp. Clean filter media thoroughly. Check pond size suitability. |
| UVC indicator light off | UVC lamp burned out, faulty ballast, or no power | Check power supply. Replace UVC lamp. Contact support if ballast is suspected. |
| Water leaking from connections | Loose clamps or damaged seals | Tighten clamps. Inspect and replace any damaged seals or O-rings. |
9. Warranty and Support
Ubbink products are manufactured to high-quality standards. This product comes with a manufacturer's warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product for specific terms and conditions.
For technical support, spare parts, or warranty claims, please contact your retailer or the Ubbink customer service department. Keep your proof of purchase (receipt) handy when contacting support.
Manufacturer: UBBINK
Model Number: 1355164
