1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the PULACO Aquarium Air Pump and Small Aquarium Filter. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, installation, and maintenance of your new aquarium equipment. Please read these instructions carefully before use and retain them for future reference.
2. Product Components
The PULACO Aquarium Air Pump and Small Aquarium Filter package includes the following items:
- PULACO Ultra Quiet Mini Aquarium Fish Tank Air Pump (suitable for 1-20 gallon tanks)
- Air Tube
- Air Bubbler Stone
- Check Valve
- PULACO Ultra Quiet Aquarium Hang-on Filter (66 GPH, 3W, suitable for 2-8 gallon tanks)
Figure 1: Complete package contents including the air pump, air tube, air stone, check valve, and hang-on filter.
Figure 2: Close-up view of the PULACO air pump, air tube, air stone, and check valve.
Figure 3: The PULACO hang-on filter unit, showing its compact design.
3. Setup Instructions
3.1 Air Pump Setup
- Positioning the Air Pump: Place the PULACO air pump on a stable surface outside and above the aquarium water level. If placing below the water level, a check valve is essential to prevent water backflow into the pump during power outages.
- Connecting the Air Tube: Connect one end of the air tube to the air outlet nozzle on the air pump.
- Installing the Check Valve: Cut the air tube and insert the check valve in line. Ensure the check valve is oriented correctly (usually indicated by an arrow pointing towards the aquarium). This prevents water from siphoning back into the air pump.
- Attaching the Air Stone: Connect the other end of the air tube (after the check valve, if used) to the air bubbler stone.
- Placing the Air Stone: Submerge the air stone in the aquarium. You may use a suction cup (not included) to secure it to the tank bottom or side.
Figure 4: Illustration of the air pump setup with air tube, check valve, and air stone submerged in an aquarium.
3.2 Hang-on Filter Setup
- Unpack and Inspect: Remove the filter from its packaging and inspect for any damage.
- Assemble Intake Tube: Connect the intake tube sections together and attach them to the bottom of the filter body.
- Install Filter Media: Ensure the filter media (e.g., sponge, carbon) is correctly placed inside the filter chamber according to the filter's internal design.
- Hang on Aquarium: Carefully hang the filter unit onto the back or side rim of your aquarium. Ensure it is level and securely seated.
- Fill with Water: Before plugging in, prime the filter by filling the filter chamber with aquarium water. This prevents dry running and ensures immediate water flow upon activation.
- Adjust Water Level: Ensure the water level in your aquarium is sufficient for the filter's intake tube to be fully submerged.
Figure 5: The hang-on filter actively circulating water in an aquarium, demonstrating its quiet operation.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Air Pump Operation
- After completing the setup, plug the air pump's power cord into a suitable electrical outlet.
- The air pump will immediately begin to produce air bubbles through the air stone.
- Ensure the air stone is producing a steady stream of fine bubbles. If not, check for kinks in the air tube or blockages in the air stone.
4.2 Hang-on Filter Operation
- Once the filter chamber is primed with water and the unit is securely hung, plug the filter's power cord into a suitable electrical outlet.
- The filter should immediately start drawing water from the aquarium through the intake tube, processing it through the media, and returning clean water via the waterfall outlet.
- Verify that water is flowing smoothly and that there are no unusual noises.
Important: Always ensure your hands are dry before handling electrical plugs. Create a drip loop for all power cords to prevent water from traveling along the cord to the outlet.
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and optimal performance of your PULACO aquarium equipment.
5.1 Air Pump Maintenance
- Air Stone: Periodically clean or replace the air stone if bubble production decreases significantly. Clogged air stones can reduce air flow and strain the pump.
- Air Tube: Check the air tube for kinks, cracks, or blockages. Replace if necessary.
- Pump Exterior: Wipe the exterior of the air pump with a dry cloth to keep it clean and free of dust. Do not submerge the air pump in water.
5.2 Hang-on Filter Maintenance
- Filter Media: Rinse or replace filter media regularly. For biological media, rinse gently in old aquarium water to preserve beneficial bacteria. Mechanical media (sponges) can be rinsed or replaced. Chemical media (carbon) should be replaced every 2-4 weeks.
- Impeller: Unplug the filter and carefully remove the impeller cover. Clean the impeller and its housing with a small brush to remove any debris or algae buildup. This ensures smooth operation and prevents noise.
- Intake Tube: Clean the intake tube and strainer to ensure unrestricted water flow.
- Filter Body: Wipe down the exterior and interior of the filter body as needed.
Caution: Always unplug the air pump and filter from the power outlet before performing any maintenance or cleaning.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your PULACO aquarium equipment, refer to the following troubleshooting guide:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Air Pump Not Producing Bubbles / Weak Air Flow |
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| Filter Not Pumping Water / Weak Flow |
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| Excessive Noise from Filter |
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7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | PULACO |
| Model | Aquarium Air Pump and Small Aquarium Filter |
| Material | Metal, Plastic |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Air Pump Compatibility | 1-20 Gallon Fish Bowl/Tank |
| Filter Flow Capacity | 66 Gallons Per Hour (GPH) |
| Filter Power Consumption | 3W |
| Filter Compatibility | 2-8 Gallon Fish Tank |
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
8. Safety Information
- Always unplug all aquarium equipment from the power outlet before placing hands in the aquarium water or performing any maintenance.
- Ensure all electrical connections are dry and away from water splashes.
- Create a "drip loop" for all power cords to prevent water from traveling along the cord to the electrical outlet.
- Do not operate any appliance if it has a damaged cord or plug, or if it is malfunctioning or has been dropped or damaged in any manner.
- This product is intended for indoor use only.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Never attempt to repair the unit yourself. Refer to qualified service personnel.
9. Warranty and Support
PULACO products are manufactured with quality and care. For any questions, technical support, or warranty inquiries, please contact PULACO customer service. While specific warranty details are not provided in this manual, general support can be found through the official PULACO brand channels.
For further assistance, please visit the PULACO Store on Amazon.
