AquaClear AC Series FLUVAL Aquarium Kit Instruction Manual

AC Series FLUVAL Aquarium Kit

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Product Specifications

• Series: Performance Power Filter
• Models: AC20, AC30, AC50, AC70
• Warranty: 3 years

Product Usage Instructions

What’s Included

• Filter Cover
• Media Basket
• Filter Case
• Impeller Assembly
• Seal Ring
• Motor Unit
• Leveling Device
• Impeller Cover
• Intake U Tube
• Extension Tube
• Intake Stem
• Intake Sponge
• Bio-Foam
• Carbon
• BIOMAX

Important Safety Instructions

1. Read and follow all safety instructions provided in the
   manual.

2. Avoid reaching for the appliance if it falls into water; unplug
   it first.

3. If any abnormal water leakage is noticed, disconnect the power
   supply immediately.

4. Check for any damage or malfunction before operation; do not
   use if damaged.

5. Avoid contact with moving or hot parts to prevent injury.

6. Use the appliance indoors only; avoid exposure to weather or
   freezing temperatures.

7. Ensure secure installation and proper electrical connection
   before use.

8. Use appropriate extension cords if needed to prevent
   overheating.

9. Save the instructions for future reference.

Quick Start Guide

1. Rinse Bio-Foam thoroughly and place it in the bottom section of
   the media basket.

2. Insert the media basket into the filter case as indicated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the power filter be used in saltwater aquariums?

A: Yes, the power filter can be used in both freshwater and
saltwater aquariums. Ensure proper maintenance for saltwater
use.

Q: How often should the filter media be replaced?

A: It is recommended to replace the filter media every 2-4
weeks, depending on tank size and bioload. Monitor regularly for
optimal performance.

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PERFORMANCE
SERIES POWER FILTER

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

20

30

50

70

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WHAT’S INCLUDED

1. Filter Cover

2. Media Basket

1

3. Filter Case

4. Impeller Assembly

5. Seal Ring

6. Motor Unit

7. Leveling Device

8. Impeller Cover

2

9. Intake “U” Tube

10. Extension Tube

11. Intake Stem

12. Intake Sponge

13. Bio-Foam

14. Carbon

15. BIOMAX

10

Not included with AC20

3

4

5

8 9
10

6 15

7

11

14

13 12

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING­To guard against injury, basic safety precautions should be observed, including the following:

1.READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
and all important notices on the appliance before using. Failure to do so may result in damage to the appliance. 2. DANGER ­ To avoid possible electrical shock, special care should be taken since water is employed in the use of this equipment. For each

of the following situations, do not attempt repairs yourself; return the appliance to an authorized service facility for service or discard the appliance. A. If the appliance falls into the water DO NOT reach for it! First unplug it and
then retrieve it. If any of the electrical components of the appliance gets wet,

unplug it immediately. B. If the appliance shows any sign of abnormal water leakage or if RCD
(or GFCI- Ground Fault Current Interrupter) switches off disconnect the power supply cord from mains and remove pump from water.

C. Carefully examine the appliance after installation. It should not be plugged in if there is water on parts not intended to be wet.
D. Do not operate any appliance if it has a damaged cord or plug, or if it is malfunctioning or if it is dropped or damaged in any manner. The power cord

of this appliance cannot be replaced; if the cord is damaged, the appliance should be discarded. Never cut the cord. E. To avoid the possibility of the appliance plug or receptacle getting wet, position the appliance to one side of a wall mounted receptacle

to prevent water from dripping onto the receptacle or plug. A “drip

loop” (A) should be arranged to the receptacle. The “drip loop” is the

part of the cord below the level of the receptacle or the connector if

an extension cord is used, to prevent water traveling along the cord and coming into contact with the receptacle. If the plug or receptacle

A

does get wet, DO NOT unplug the cord. Disconnect the fuse or circuit breaker that supplies power to the appliance. Then unplug and examine for presence of water in the receptacle.

3. WARNING ­ Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children. This appliance can be used by children ages 3 years and above and persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge if they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance in a safe way and understand the hazards involved. Children shall not play with the appliance. Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children without supervision.
4. To avoid injury, do not contact moving parts or hot parts such as heaters, reflectors, lamp bulbs, and the like.
5. CAUTION ­ Always unplug or disconnect all appliances in the aquarium from electricity supply before placing hands in water, before putting on or taking off parts and while the equipment is being installed, maintained or handled. Never yank cord to pull plug from outlet. Grasp the plug and pull to disconnect. Always unplug an appliance from an outlet when not in use.
6. This appliance is a non-submersible aquarium filter-pump. It is intended for use in ornamental household aquariums. It may be used with fresh or salt water. Maximum water temperature 35°C. Do not use this appliance for other than intended use (ie: DO NOT use in swimming pools, bathtubs, etc.). The use of attachments not recommended or sold by the appliance manufacturer may cause an unsafe condition and will invalidate your warranty.
7. This is a HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE INTENDED FOR DOMESTIC USE and it is suitable for INDOOR use only. Do not install or store this appliance where it will be exposed to the weather or temperatures below freezing.
8. Make sure that this appliance is securely installed before operating it and that the electrical connection is in accordance with the data on the rating label. Do not allow filter pump to run dry.
9. If an extension cord is necessary, a cord with a proper rating should be used. A cord rated for less amperes or watts than the appliance rating may overheat. Care should be taken to arrange the cord so that it will not be tripped over or pulled. The connection should be carried out by a qualified electrical installer.
10. SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS for future reference.

QUICK START GUIDE
1. Rinse Bio-Foam thoroughly and place in bottom section of media basket. 2. Place the media basket into the filter case, ensuring the side indicated”BIOMAX FRONT”on the
basket is facing front of filter. 3. Remove Activated Carbon from protective plastic bag. Rinse thoroughly and place in top rear
section of media basket, respecting the “MAX FILL” level. 4. Remove BIOMAX from protective plastic bag. Rinse thoroughly before placing in top front section of
basket marked”BIOMAX FRONT”, respecting the”MAX FILL”level.

3. Media should

not go above

the MAX FILL

2. 4. Media should not go above the MAX FILL

5. Install intake “U” tube and apply gentle pressure until it clicks into position. 6. Attach intake sponge to end of intake stem. 7. Add the extension tube to the intake stem if aquarium depth requires it.
(Extension tube included with models AC30, AC50, AC70) 8. Attach intake assembly to intake “U” tube and apply gentle pressure until it slides into position. 9. Attach leveling device to filter case by inserting peg into place. 10. Mount filter onto rear of aquarium. 11. Rotate leveling device until filter is perfectly level.

Intake “U” Tube

Leveling Device

Intake Stem
Intake Sponge

Side

Bottom

View

View

Extension Tube

Intake

Intake

Stem

Assembly

12. Fill filter case completely with water. 13. For the initial start-up and for a faster priming of filter, adjust water flow control lever
on the intake “U” tube to its minimum position. 14. Plug power cord into electrical outlet. Allow 30-45 seconds for priming. 15. When priming is complete, adjust flow control to desired output. 16. Install filter cover.
IMPORTANT – DO NOT OPERATE FILTER WITHOUT WATER For optimal filter operation and efficiency, regular cleaning of the filter and its parts is recommended every month. Do not use soaps or detergents.

POWER FILTER MAINTENANCE
Always unplug power filter prior to cleaning. Remove cover, filter basket, and discard water remaining in the filter case. Thoroughly rinse collected debris from the case, impeller cover and impeller assembly in clear lukewarm water. The intake “U” tube and extension tube can be cleaned with a filter stem brush to remove any buildup of deposits. When all parts have been cleaned and thoroughly rinsed, reassemble filter and replace onto aquarium. Follow operating instructions to restart and prime power filter.
(See Quick Start Guide)

Every three months the motor should be 1.
thoroughly cleaned. Remove filter cover, filter basket and discard water remaining in filter case.

1. Remove motor by twisting a ¼-turn

gently in the direction of the arrow

on front. Ease motor down slowly

to prevent damage to the filter

and motor guide.

2. Pull impeller out of impeller well

and rinse to remove accumulated

slime deposits.

3. A cotton swab or impeller well brush can be used to remove more stubborn deposits. Place impeller back into position.

4. Reinstall motor.

MAINTENANCE FREQUENCY CHART

COMPONENTS
Impeller Seal Ring Bio-Foam BIOMAX Carbon Insert

MONTHLY
Check & Clean Rinse Replace

EVERY 2 MONTHS
Replace

3. EVERY 3 MONTHS
   Check & Clean Check & Clean
   Replace

SPARE PARTS
DESCRIPTION
1. Filter Cover 2. Media Basket 3. Filter Case 4. Impeller Assembly 5. Seal Ring 6. Motor Unit 7. Leveling Device 8. Impeller Cover 9. Intake “U” tube 10. Extension Tube 11. Intake Stem

AC20 A16031 A16041 A16021 A16005 A16017 A16002 A16325 A16014 A16051 A16053 A16052

ITEM No. & MODEL

AC30

AC50

A16131

A16231

A16141

A16241

A16121

A16221

A16006

A16007

A16017

A16017

A16002

A16002

A16325

A16325

A16014

A16014

A16051

A16051

A16053

A16053

A16052

A16052

AC70 A16331 A16341 A16321 A16008 A16017 A16002 A16325 A16321 A16351 A16353 A16352

TROUBLE SHOOTING & FAQ
Q. What is the maximum aquarium rim thickness this filter can fit on? A. The maximum aquarium rim size for AC20, AC30, AC50 and AC70 filters is 0.9″ / 2.4 cm.
In the case of the AC110, it is 1.4″ / 3.6 cm.
Q. How does water flow through an AC Series filter? A. Water enters the filter via the intake tubes and travels to the bottom of the filter case. It then passes through
the Bio-Foam, Carbon and BIOMAX before returning to the aquarium. When the flow control lever is set to its minimum position, up to 50% of the water is recirculated for slower but more thorough filtration.
Q. What is the minimum aquarium water level required for AC Series filters to work properly? A. For AC20, AC30 and AC50 filters, the water level should be no more than 5/8″ / 16 mm from the bottom of
the filter output. For AC70 and AC110 filters, the water level should be no more than 1.5″ / 38 mm from the bottom of the filter output.
Q. My filter is not starting. What should I do? A. First, verify that the electrical cord is accurately plugged into a power outlet. Next, ensure that the filter
container is completely filled with water and that the filter intake stem (U-shaped tube) is properly seated on the impeller cover. Also verify that the impeller, impeller shaft and impeller well are thoroughly cleaned and free of debris.
Q. Should I use one or both of the included intake stems? A. We recommend using as many of the intake stems as will fit in your aquarium. Drawing water from deeper
in the aquarium guarantees the most efficient filtration overall.
Q. What is the best way to prime an AC Series filter? A. First, ensure the filter case is completely filled with water, and adjust the water flow control lever to its
lowest setting for initial start-up. Plug the power cord into the electrical outlet and allow 30-45 seconds for priming. After priming has been completed, you can adjust the water flow control lever as required.

TROUBLE SHOOTING & FAQ
Q. The water level in my AC Series filter is quite high and there is water spilling over into the aquarium on the intake side. Why is this happening?
A. This is likely occurring as a result of the filter media being clogged and not allowing water to pass through efficiently. Rinse out the media on a regular basis to help prevent this from happening.
Q. The flow of water out of my AC Series filter is slower than normal. Why? A. It’s likely the media is dirty and in need of cleaning / replacement. It’s also possible the impeller assembly
needs to be cleaned, or the impeller needs to be replaced.
Q. How frequently should I clean the intake strainer sponge? A. We recommend rinsing the intake strainer sponge monthly and replacing it every two months. However,
more frequent rinsing may be necessary depending on your particular aquarium.
Q. Why is my filter making noise? A. Noise originating from the motor suggests that the impeller assembly needs to be cleaned. Unplug the filter
from the power source, empty the water from the container, remove the motor and thoroughly clean all parts to ensure the impeller assembly is free of debris. It is also possible the impeller assembly is in need of replacement: as the only moving part in the filter that operates 24 hours/day, the impeller does eventually wear and is therefore not covered under warranty.
Q. How do I remove surface film from my aquarium water? A. A surface film can be the result of cooking smoke, skin oils, dust accumulation, and fish food, which
naturally includes fat content. We recommend the use of the Fluval AC Series Surface Skimmer connected to the intake of your filter.

RECYCLING
This product bears the selective sorting symbol for waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). This means that this product must be handled pursuant to European Directive 2012/19/ EU in order to be recycled or dismantled to minimize its impact on the environment. Check with your local Environmental Agency for possible disposal instructions or take to an official council registered refuse collection point. Electronic products not included in the selective sorting process are potentially dangerous for the environment and human health due to the presence of hazardous substances.
FOR AUTHORIZED WARRANTY REPAIR SERVICE
QUESTIONS? If you have a problem or question about the operation of this product, please let us try to help you before you return the product to your dealer. Most problems can be handled promptly with a phone call. Or, if you prefer, you can contact us on our website at www.fluvalaquatics.com. When you call (or write), please have all relevant information, such as model number and/or part numbers available.
USA CALL US ON OUR TOLL-FREE NUMBER: 1-800-724-2436 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. Ask for Customer Service.
CANADA CALL US ON OUR TOLL-FREE NUMBER: 1-800-554-2436 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. Ask for Customer Service.
UK Helpline Number 01977 521015. Between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday to Thursday and 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on Friday (excluding Bank Holidays).
3 YEAR WARRANTY

The Fluval AquaClear or AC Series filter is guaranteed for defective parts and workmanship for a period of 3 years from the date of purchase. This guarantee is valid with proof of purchase only. The guarantee is limited to repair or replacement only and does not cover consequential loss, loss or damage to livestock and personal property or damage to animate or inanimate objects, irrespective of the cause thereof. This guarantee is valid only under normal operating conditions for which the unit is intended. It excludes any damage caused by unreasonable use, negligence, improper installation, tampering, abuse or commercial use.The warranty does not cover wear and tear, breakage of glass or parts which have not been adequately or correctly maintained. THIS DOES NOT AFFECT YOUR STATUTORY RIGHTS.

BONUS +2 YEARS v

EXTENDED

WARRANTY

LIMITED TIME OFFER! Register this product online within 30 days of purchase and Fluval will extend your current warranty at no charge. The extended warranty is subject to provisions outlined within the standard Fluval warranty. Complete details and registration available at:
FluvalAquatics.com/warranty

Made in Italy

Ver.: 23/24-NA

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