Introduction
The Sicce Shark Nano Protein Skimmer 300 is an internal protein skimmer designed for saltwater aquariums up to 80 US gallons (300 liters), depending on bioload. This compact and efficient device helps maintain water quality by removing organic waste from your marine environment. It features a quiet pump, adjustable settings, and a self-cleaning impeller for optimal performance.
Image: The Sicce Shark Nano Protein Skimmer 300, a compact internal protein skimmer.
Safety Information
- Always disconnect the skimmer from the power supply before performing any maintenance or cleaning.
- Ensure the skimmer is fully submerged to the recommended water level during operation.
- Do not operate the skimmer if the power cord or plug is damaged.
- This product is designed for indoor use in saltwater aquariums only.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Package Contents
Verify that all components are present in the package:
- Sicce Shark Nano Protein Skimmer unit
- Skimmer Cup
- Magnet Mount (for glass up to 15 mm / 0.6 inches)
- Air Silencer with air regulation valve
- Cleaning Brush
Product Overview
External Components
Image: Diagram illustrating the external components of the Shark Skimmer 300, including the skimmer cup, silencer, height-adjustable water inlet, and opaque body.
- Skimmer Cup: High capacity 260 ml cup for collecting skimmate. Features a cup cover with anti-drip function and hose holder.
- Skimmer Neck: Equipped with a vibration dampening O-ring for quiet operation.
- Silencer: With easy air regulation for precise control of air intake.
- Height-Adjustable Water Inlet: Allows for fine-tuning of the water level within the skimmer body.
- Opaque Body: Protects internal parts from light, preventing algae growth.
- Water Outlet: Located at the bottom for processed water return.
Internal Mechanism
Image: Cross-section diagram showing the internal flow of water and air, the self-cleaning impeller, and the skimmate collection path.
- Self-Cleaning Impeller: Specifically optimized for high-efficiency skimming and reduced maintenance.
- Water + Air Mixing Chamber: Where water and air are thoroughly mixed to create fine bubbles for protein removal.
- Bottom Grid for Water Outlet: Ensures proper water flow out of the skimmer.
Setup
- Unpack and Inspect: Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Inspect for any damage.
- Assemble Skimmer Cup: Ensure the skimmer cup is securely seated on the skimmer body.
- Attach Air Silencer: Connect the air hose from the skimmer to the air silencer.
- Mounting: The skimmer uses a waterproof magnetic connection system. Place the skimmer inside your aquarium or sump, ensuring the magnet mount is aligned with the external magnet on the glass. The system is rated for glass up to 15 mm (0.6 inches) thick.
Image: Detail of the Magnetic Connection System (MCS) for secure mounting on aquarium glass.
- Placement: Position the skimmer in an area with good water flow, typically in a sump or directly in the display tank. Ensure the skimmer is fully submerged to the recommended water level indicated on the unit.
- Initial Water Level Adjustment: Adjust the height of the skimmer or the water level in your sump so that the water line inside the skimmer body is at the 'WATER LEVEL' indicator. This is a crucial step for optimal performance.
Image: The Sicce Shark Nano Protein Skimmer 300 operating within a vibrant saltwater aquarium.
Operating Instructions
- Power On: Once the skimmer is correctly installed and submerged, connect the power plug to an electrical outlet. The pump will start, and bubbles will begin to form.
- Break-in Period: A new skimmer typically requires a break-in period of several days to a few weeks. During this time, micro-bubbles may be excessive, and skimmate production might be inconsistent. This is normal as a biofilm develops on the internal surfaces.
- Adjusting Skimmate Consistency:
- Wet Skim: For lighter, more frequent skimmate, raise the internal water level by adjusting the height-adjustable water inlet or the skimmer's position.
- Dry Skim: For darker, thicker skimmate, lower the internal water level.
- Ozone Compatibility: The Sicce Shark Nano Protein Skimmer 300 is ozone compatible. If using ozone, ensure proper safety precautions and follow the ozone generator's instructions.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of your protein skimmer.
- Empty Skimmer Cup: The skimmer cup should be emptied regularly, typically every few days or as it fills. The frequency depends on the bioload of your aquarium. Rinse the cup with fresh water.
- Clean Skimmer Neck: Wipe the inside of the skimmer neck to prevent organic buildup, which can impede foam production.
- Impeller and Pump Cleaning: Periodically (e.g., monthly or bi-monthly), disconnect the skimmer from power and remove the pump. Disassemble the pump and clean the impeller and pump housing using the provided cleaning brush and fresh water. The self-cleaning impeller design helps reduce the frequency of this task.
Image: The Sicce Shark Skimmer models 150 and 300, highlighting the self-cleaning impeller technology.
- Air Silencer Maintenance: Check the air silencer and air line for blockages or salt creep. Clean as necessary to ensure unrestricted air intake.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No or few bubbles | Air line kinked or blocked; Impeller clogged; Pump not running; Low water level. | Check air line and silencer for obstructions. Clean impeller and pump. Ensure power is connected. Adjust water level to recommended height. |
| Excessive micro-bubbles in aquarium | New skimmer break-in period; Water level too high; Air intake too high. | Allow break-in period. Lower internal water level. Reduce air intake via silencer valve. Ensure proper placement away from return pumps. |
| Skimmer overflowing | Water level too high; Introduction of new chemicals/foods; Air intake too low. | Lower internal water level. Temporarily turn off skimmer if dosing. Increase air intake. |
| Poor skimmate production | Skimmer not broken in; Water level too low; Insufficient air; Low organic load. | Allow break-in. Raise internal water level. Check air line/silencer. If organic load is low, skimmer will produce less. |
| Loud operation | Impeller obstruction; Vibration. | Clean impeller. Ensure skimmer is securely mounted and not touching other equipment. Check O-rings. |
Specifications
Image: Detailed specifications table for Sicce Shark Skimmer models 150 and 300.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | Shark Nano 300 (SIC212) |
| Aquarium Capacity | Up to 300 Liters / 80 US Gallons (Low Bioload) Up to 200 Liters / 50 US Gallons (Medium Bioload) Up to 100 Liters / 25 US Gallons (High Bioload) |
| Power Consumption | 5 Watts |
| Max Air Capacity | 180 l/h (45 US gph) |
| Skimmer Cup Capacity | 260 ml |
| Magnetic Mount Thickness | Up to 15 mm (0.6 inches) |
| Immersion Depth | From 130 mm to 150 mm (5" to 6") |
| Cable Length | 2.2 m (7.55 ft) |
| Ozone Compatible | Yes |
| Item Weight | 2.7 pounds |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 10.17 x 5.95 x 5.08 inches (Package) |
Warranty
The Sicce Shark Nano Protein Skimmer 300 comes with a 5-Year Manufacturer Warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. For specific terms and conditions, refer to the warranty documentation included with your product or contact Sicce customer support.
Customer Support
For technical assistance, spare parts, or warranty inquiries, please contact Sicce customer support. Visit the official Sicce website for contact information and additional resources.
Website: www.sicce.com
