How to Use the Octopus LX 2000S Skimmer

The Octopus LX 2000S skimmer removes dissolved organic wastes from saltwater fish tanks before the waste degrades into contaminants like ammonia, nitrite and nitrates. Commonly known as a protein skimmer, the Octopus LX 2000S removes the unhealthy substances that pass straight through mechanical filters, maintaining the purity of the tank water and the health of the fish population. As injected air bubbles rise through the skimmer's reaction chamber, a variety of pollutants and impurities in the water molecularly bond to the surface of the bubbles, much like the surfactants of soap bond to the surface of soap bubbles. Contaminants are then skimmed out as the bubbles foam into a collection cup at the top of the unit. The Octopus LX 2000S skimmer mounts on the back of the aquarium and is partially submerged in the tank water. Protein skimmers require salt water for the molecular bonding effect; they are not effective in fresh water aquariums.

Instructions

    • 1

      Hang the Octopus LX 2000S on the back of the aquarium so the water inlet gate is below the surface of the water. Make sure it's level and then tighten the mounting screws to secure it in place.

    • 2

      Prime the pump by filling the skimmer's reaction chamber with approximately eight inches of tank water. Place a finger over the end of the silencer pipe to block it completely and start the pump. When the pump begins to siphon water into the tank, remove your finger from the silencer pump.

    • 3

      Place the collection cup in the top of the skimmer and use the adjusting screws to position the cup in its highest position for the break-in period. Place the top cover on the collection cup.

    • 4

      Allow three to four weeks for the skimmer to process the tank water and the break-in period to complete before making any adjustments to increase or decrease air flow.

    • 5

      Remove the collection cup and clean it out once a week.