1. Introduction and Overview
The Reef Octopus OCTO Regal 150 SSS Space Saver Protein Skimmer is designed to provide efficient filtration for marine aquariums. This unit is suitable for aquariums up to 210 gallons with light filtration demands, 160 gallons with medium demands, and 100 gallons with high demands. Its compact footprint and hybrid conical body are engineered for optimal performance in sumps with limited space.
The Regal 150 SSS features a high-quality cast acrylic construction that allows for complete disassembly, simplifying cleaning and maintenance. It is equipped with a Reef Octopus Controllable DC 2500S Pinwheel Pump, offering variable speed technology for precise control over air and water flow rates. This DC pump technology provides enhanced efficiency and allows users to adjust skimmer performance with ease.
Image 1.1: Overview of the Reef Octopus OCTO Regal 150 SSS Protein Skimmer and its VarioS Controller.
2. Safety Instructions
- Always unplug the skimmer and pump from the power outlet before performing any maintenance, cleaning, or assembly.
- Ensure all electrical connections are kept dry and away from water.
- Do not operate the pump dry. Ensure it is fully submerged in water during operation.
- This product is designed for indoor use only, specifically for marine aquarium applications.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Inspect the power cord and pump for any damage before each use. Do not use if damaged.
3. Package Contents
Please verify that all components are present and undamaged upon opening the package:
- Skimmer Body (Collection Cup, Neck, Reaction Chamber, Base)
- Reef Octopus Controllable DC 2500S Pinwheel Pump
- VarioS Controller for DC Pump
- Air Silencer
- Output Pipe Assembly
- Metric to 1.25” PVC Adapter
- Drain Hose for Collection Cup
4. Setup Instructions
4.1 Initial Preparation
- Rinse Components: Thoroughly rinse all skimmer components with fresh water to remove any manufacturing residues or dust. Do not use soap or detergents.
- Assembly: Assemble the skimmer body according to the diagrams provided in the packaging. Ensure all O-rings and seals are properly seated to prevent leaks.
4.2 Sump Placement
Place the assembled skimmer in the designated skimmer section of your aquarium sump. The recommended sump water depth for optimal performance is between 7 inches to 8.5 inches.
4.3 Pump and Controller Connection
- Connect Pump: Securely attach the DC 2500S Pinwheel Pump to the skimmer body.
- Air Line: Connect the air line from the pump's air intake to the air silencer.
- Controller Connection: Connect the pump's power cable to the VarioS Controller.
- Power Connection: Plug the VarioS Controller's power adapter into a grounded electrical outlet.
Image 4.1: Skimmer base showing the pump connection point.
Image 4.2: Detail of the air intake and water output connections on the skimmer.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Initial Start-up and Break-in
Upon initial start-up, the skimmer will require a break-in period, typically lasting several days to a few weeks. During this time, micro-bubbles may be excessive, and skimmate production may be inconsistent. This is normal as the skimmer surfaces condition and oils dissipate.
- Start the pump at a lower speed setting (e.g., speed 2 out of 5) on the VarioS Controller.
- Gradually increase the speed over the break-in period as the skimmer stabilizes.
5.2 VarioS Controller Operation
The VarioS Controller allows you to adjust the pump's speed and thus the skimmer's performance.
Image 5.1: Close-up of the VarioS Controller with speed settings and control buttons.
- Power Button: Press to turn the pump ON/OFF.
- Speed Adjustment: Use the '+' and '-' buttons to increase or decrease the pump's speed. There are 5 controllable energy-efficient power settings.
- Feed Mode: The controller may feature a feed mode (e.g., 15min or 60min buttons) which temporarily shuts off the skimmer for feeding, then restarts automatically.
- Skimmate Adjustment: Adjust the water level within the skimmer neck by fine-tuning the pump speed and the output gate valve. A higher water level in the neck typically produces wetter skimmate, while a lower level produces drier skimmate. Aim for a consistent, dark, and thick skimmate for optimal nutrient export.
6. Maintenance
6.1 Collection Cup Cleaning
The collection cup should be emptied and cleaned regularly, typically every few days to once a week, depending on the bioload of your aquarium.
- Unplug the skimmer.
- Remove the collection cup.
- Utilize the integrated drain hose to empty the skimmate into a waste container.
- Rinse the collection cup and neck thoroughly with fresh water. A brush may be used to remove stubborn deposits.
- Reinstall the collection cup, ensuring a tight seal.
6.2 Skimmer Body and Pump Cleaning
Periodically, the entire skimmer body and pump should be cleaned to maintain efficiency. The skimmer's cast acrylic construction allows for complete disassembly.
- Unplug the skimmer and remove it from the sump.
- Disassemble the skimmer components.
- Clean all parts, including the reaction chamber, air silencer, and output pipe, using fresh water and a soft brush. For stubborn algae or calcium deposits, a mild vinegar solution can be used, followed by a thorough rinse.
- Pump Maintenance: Disassemble the pump and clean the impeller, volute, and pump housing. Ensure no debris is obstructing the impeller.
- Reassemble all components, ensuring all O-rings are clean and properly seated.
Image 6.1: Example of a red O-ring seal, critical for proper assembly and preventing leaks.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No skimmate production or poor skimmate | New skimmer (break-in period), incorrect water level, dirty skimmer/pump, air intake obstruction, low pump speed. | Allow break-in time. Adjust sump water level (7-8.5 inches). Clean skimmer and pump. Check air line and silencer for blockages. Increase pump speed. |
| Skimmer overflowing | High sump water level, recent dosing/additives, new skimmer (break-in), pump speed too high. | Lower sump water level. Reduce pump speed. Wait for additives to dissipate. Allow break-in time. |
| Excessive micro-bubbles in sump | New skimmer (break-in), incorrect water level, air leak, output pipe not submerged enough. | Allow break-in time. Adjust sump water level. Check all connections for air leaks. Ensure output pipe is properly directed. |
| Pump not running | No power, impeller jammed, pump failure. | Check power connection to controller and outlet. Unplug and clean pump impeller. Contact support if pump still fails. |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | OCTO Regal 150 SSS |
| Aquarium Capacity (Light Demand) | Up to 210 Gallons |
| Aquarium Capacity (Medium Demand) | Up to 160 Gallons |
| Aquarium Capacity (High Demand) | Up to 100 Gallons |
| Footprint (L x W) | 9" x 7.5" |
| Body Diameter | 6" |
| Total Height | 23.6" |
| Recommended Sump Water Depth | 7" to 8.5" |
| Pump | Reef Octopus Controllable DC 2500S Pinwheel Pump |
| Pump Control | VarioS Controller (5 speed settings) |
| Output Size | 40mm (with metric to 1.25” PVC adapter) |
| Output Height | 9.1" |
| Material | High-Quality Cast Acrylic |
| Item Weight | 12.47 pounds (5.67 Kilograms) |
Image 8.1: Label on the DC Skimmer Pump showing model and specifications.
9. Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Reef Octopus website. For technical support or replacement parts, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly.
