1. Introduction
The Sicce Shark Mini Aquarium Surface Skimmer 350 is designed to efficiently remove floating debris, dust, and oil film from the surface of your aquarium water. This helps improve gas exchange and maintains a healthy aquatic environment for both freshwater and saltwater setups. Its compact design and magnetic connection system ensure easy installation and discreet integration into your aquarium.
Image 1.1: Overview of the Sicce Shark Mini Skim Surface Skimmer. This image highlights the product's main features and its application in maintaining clean aquarium surfaces.
2. Safety Information
- Always disconnect the power supply before performing any maintenance or installation.
- Ensure your hands are dry before plugging in or unplugging the device.
- This device is intended for indoor use only and for aquariums.
- Do not operate if the power cord or plug is damaged.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- The protection grid must always be in place to prevent small fish or invertebrates from entering the skimmer.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all components are present in the package:
- Sicce Shark Mini Skim Surface Skimmer unit
- Integrated Pump
- Flow Deflector
- Protection Grid
- External Magnet
- 30 ppi Mechanical Filter Foam
4. Setup and Installation
- Prepare the Aquarium: Ensure the aquarium glass is clean where the skimmer will be placed.
- Attach the Skimmer: The Shark Mini Skimmer uses a magnetic connection system. Place the skimmer unit inside the aquarium against the glass. Align the external magnet on the outside of the aquarium glass directly opposite the internal magnet of the skimmer. The skimmer is rated for up to 6 mm (0.25") glass thickness.
- Insert Protection Grid: Place the protection grid into the top inlet of the skimmer. This prevents small aquatic life from being drawn into the unit.
- Position the Skimmer: Adjust the skimmer's position so that the water level is within the operating range of the floating inlet. The skimmer float has a 30 mm (1.2") excursion to adapt to varying water levels.
- Connect Power: Once securely installed and submerged, connect the power cord to a suitable electrical outlet.
Image 4.1: Illustration of the Magnetic Connection System (MCS). This image demonstrates how the skimmer attaches to the aquarium glass using magnets, ensuring a secure hold.
Image 4.2: Step-by-step guide for inserting the protection grid. The grid is crucial for preventing small fish and invertebrates from entering the skimmer mechanism.
5. Operating Instructions
The Sicce Shark Mini Skimmer is designed for continuous operation to maintain a clean water surface.
- Surface Skimming: The unique rotating system at the top of the skimmer draws water from the surface, effectively removing oil film and debris.
- Flow Regulation: The skimmer features a multidirectional flow deflector and a rotating system for optimal surface skimming and flow regulation. You can adjust the rotation to fine-tune the skimming action.
Image 5.1: Depiction of the unique rotating system and skimmer float. This illustrates how the skimmer adapts to water levels and optimizes surface debris removal.
6. Maintenance
Regular cleaning of the skimmer is essential for optimal performance and longevity. It is recommended to clean the filter foam every few days, depending on the amount of surface debris in your aquarium.
- Disconnect Power: Always unplug the skimmer from the power outlet before any maintenance.
- Remove Filter Foam: The part of the Sicce Shark Mini that holds the filter foam is easily removable. Gently slide the top section of the skimmer upwards to access the internal filter foam.
- Clean Filter Foam: Remove the 30 ppi mechanical filter foam. Rinse it thoroughly under running water (preferably aquarium water or dechlorinated tap water) until all debris is removed. Do not use soap or detergents.
- Clean Impeller and Pump Housing: Periodically, the impeller and pump housing should also be cleaned to prevent mineral buildup and ensure smooth operation. Carefully remove the pump from the skimmer body and clean the impeller and its chamber with a small brush.
- Reassemble: Reinsert the clean filter foam, reattach the pump (if removed), and secure the top section of the skimmer. Ensure the protection grid is properly seated.
- Reconnect Power: Once fully reassembled, reconnect the skimmer to the power supply.
Image 6.1: Close-up of the skimmer's release clips. These clips allow for easy disassembly to access the internal filter components for cleaning.
Image 6.2: View of the mechanical filtration foam. This image shows the blue foam responsible for trapping physical debris from the water surface.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Skimmer not operating / No flow |
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| Reduced flow / Ineffective skimming |
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| Skimmer detaches from glass |
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| Skimmer is noisy |
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8. Specifications
Technical specifications for the Sicce Shark Mini Skimmer 350:
Image 8.1: Detailed specifications table for the Shark Mini Skim 350 and 350 Plus models. This table provides information on wattage, flow rate, compatible glass thickness, and recommended aquarium volumes.
| Feature | Value (Shark Mini Skim 350) |
|---|---|
| Power Consumption (110-120 V, 60 Hz) | 6 W |
| Max Flow Rate | 90 GPH (350 l/h) |
| For Glass Thickness | Up to 6 mm (0.25") |
| For Aquarium Size | Up to 40 US Gallons (150 L) |
| Cable Length | 2.2 m (7.55 ft) |
| Item Weight | 1.1 pounds |
| Item Model Number | SIC209 |
Note: Aquarium volumes are rated for lightly to moderately stocked freshwater aquariums.
9. Warranty
The Sicce Shark Mini Aquarium Surface Skimmer 350 comes with a 5-year manufacturer's warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. For detailed warranty terms and conditions, refer to the official Sicce website or contact customer support.
10. Customer Support
For further assistance, technical support, or warranty inquiries, please visit the official Sicce website or contact their customer service department. You can often find contact information and FAQs on the manufacturer's website:
