Refugium 500RS

Set up

   1. Fit refugium 500RS securely to outer side Aquarium or sump, using screws (supplied) to do so.

   2. Place supply pump (500lph +/-) to inside (in water) of aquarium/ sump and cut the supplied 16mm pvc piping to suit your setup.

   3. Secure pipework to outlet of pump and run the pipe work to inlet of refugium.

   4. Add downpipe to the inlet of the refugium, so the small air hole is in the upper position. This will stop back siphoning if the power is lost to the refugium. The downpipe is not necessarily needed, depending on heater/ skimmer used.

   5. The outlet can be fitted with the 90o elbow and tubing if required to aid silent running. Gluing maybe required.
  
   6. Add required depth of Mineral Mud (darker coloured sand) to the refugium base of the second compartment.  Then lay the lighter coral sand directly on top of the mud.

   7. Add the Skimmer to the refugium first chamber and secure into position.

   8. Add the Heaters, positioning them ahead of the skimmer.

   9. Add Led Light.
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   10. Look over all fitting and equipment fitted in the refugium.
  
   11. Start pump supply to the refugium.
 
   12. The flow should go through the first chamber.

   13. Water will then fill the second chamber, exiting the refugium through the exit. Add Elbow and tubing to silence the water flow if required.

   14.  Add power to the heaters and skimmers. Adjust over a period of 48hrs or so. Adjusting the thermometer till the aquarium is running at a constant temperature. And adjust where necessary. 

14.   After a period of 2 days, the refugium should be up and running nicely. Add inhabitants and caulerpa to the refugium as required.

15.   Periodically check the flow through the unit and remove blockages etc where necessary.

This system is a natural filtration system that simulates the environment found in coral reefs. 

The water is kept well oxygenated through the photosynthesis of caulerpa eliminating the need for air pumps. 

Run the lamp 24 hours a day causing the caulerpa to grow only through photosynthesis. The caulerpa will prevent the unwanted growth of hair algae within the main tank by competing for the essential nutrients. 

The growth of the caulerpa can be controlled by harvesting it with scissors to use as a fresh natural food for your fish.

Fishes living in a system operating with a well established refugium remain much healthier and more colourful. Research has shown that this natural filtering helps prevent and can even cure Lateral Line Disease. This is the most cost effective way to keep your tank perfect.