USER MANUAL

GUIDE DE L’ UTILISATEUR

MANUAL DE INSTRUCCIONES

GEBRUIKERSHANDLEIDING

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FLUVAL FX6

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1 Hosing

2 Rim connectors (2)

3 Rim connector clips (6)

Small suction cups (8)

Intake assembly

Output assembly

Metal clamps (2)

AquaStop valves (2)

Filter baskets with foam inserts a Foam (6) b T handles (2) c Media baskets (3) d Bio-Foam (2)

PRODUCT PARTS

9 Filter lid / O-ring

10 Lid fasteners (8)

11 Filter canister

12 Purge valve

13 Drain cap

14 Pump unit & power cord

15 Purge valve hosing e Ceramic Rings (BioMax) f Carbon Pad g Media bags (2)

Table of Contents

Safeguard Instructions

Introduction

State-of-the-Art Technology

Installation & Use

Fluval Advanced Filtration

Fluval Filter Media

Fluval Lab Series Media

Maintenance

Canister Draining

Purge Valve Draining

Filter Pump Draining

Media Care

Pump Care

Changing Aquarium Water

Replacement Parts

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IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING - To guard against injury, basic safety precautions should be observed including the following:

READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

To guard against injury, basic safety precautions should be observed when handling the Fluval Canister

Filter, including the following:

1. READ & FOLLOW ALL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS and all the important notices on the appliance before using. Failure to do so may result in the loss of fish life and/or damage to the appliance.

physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety. Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.

2. DANGER – To avoid possible electric shock, special care should be taken since water is employed in the use of aquarium 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, DON’T reach for it! First unplug it and then retrieve it. If electrical components of the appliance get wet, unplug the appliance immediately.

B. If the applicance shows any sign of abnormal water leakage or if RCD (or GFCI – Ground Fault Current

Interrupter) switches off disconnect the power supply cord from the mains and remove pump from water.

C. Carefully examine the appliance after installation. It should not be plugged 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 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.

4. To avoid injury, do not touch moving parts or hot parts.

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. Grasp the plug and pull to disconnect. Never yank cord to pull plug from outlet. Always unplug an appliance from an outlet when not in use.

6. This appliance is not a 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 (i.e.: do not use in swimming pools, bathrooms, etc.). The use of attachments not recommended or sold by the appliance manufacturer may cause an unsafe condition and will invalidate your warranty. Do not use this appliance: a. In swimming pools or other situations where people are immersed; b. With inflammable or drinkable liquids. 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”

(see photo) should be arranged by the user in the cord connecting appliance to a receptacle. The “drip loop” is that part of the cord below the level of the receptacle or the connector, to prevent water travelling along the cord and coming in contact with the receptacle. If the plug or receptacle does get wet, DON’T unplug the cord. Disconnect the fuse or circuit breaker that supplies power to the appliance. Then unplug and examine for presence of water in receptacle.

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 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.

3. WARNING – Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children. This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced

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10.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

for future reference.

IMPORTANT

To ensure optimal and proper functioning of your Fluval

FX6 External Filter, regular maintenance is required. Failure to do so may result in the failure of the filter and will invalidate your warranty. Additionally, regular cleaning and maintenance will greatly reduce or completely prevent faults and reduction in performance. Please refer to the maintenance schedule below.

MAINTENANCE FREQUENCY CHART

COMPONENTS MONTHLY EVERY 3

MONTHS

Magnetic impeller

Intake Stem/Strainer/Hosing

Ribbed Hosing

Mechanical Foam Check & Clean

Check & Clean

Check & Clean

Bio-Foam

BIOMAX Rinse

EVERY 6

MONTHS

Replace half quantity

Check & Clean Replace half quantity

Replace half quantity

Carbon Pad Replace

YEARLY

Replace

Check & Clean

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HIGH PERFORMANCE CANISTER FILTER

The Fluval Canister Filter offers unparalleled filtration power, maximum versatility and incredible control in fine tuning water characteristics. Our multistage system allows you to stack filtration media in the precise combination of layers that will work best for your aquarium. Thus providing you infinite flexibility in creating and maintaining the ideal environment for your fish.

your aquarium environment to meet the specialized needs of your unique collection of fish and aquatic plants. Your filter is completed with pre-packed filter media that will work with best performance in most basic aquariums. However, you have the option of selecting different media, or alternative configurations of media, if you wish.

Its massive capacity and powerful integrated motor processes and re-circulates fully 563 US gallons

(2130 liters) of water every hour, enabling you to precisely manage water conditions for aquariums as large as 400 US gallons (1500 liters) with a very low power consumption. Thanks to the extendable intake tube, the filter can be adjusted to fit most aquariums on the market. It will hold up to 1.5 gallons (5.9 liters) of media, yet it’s compact enough to fit under almost any aquarium cabinet. With Fluval’s unique

Smart Pump technology, this self-priming system offers plug-in-and-start convenience. Upon startup the canister fills with water, pauses to evacuate air, immediately begins the filtering process, and continues filtering until it is unplugged. Once every

12 hours, the filter will pause again to evacuate any air that has become trapped in the system–to maintain the total vacuum necessary for maximum efficiency.

The FX6 filter offers a versatile combination of mechanical, biological and chemical filtering capabilities. This versatility enables you to customize

The FX6 Filter also offers incomparable ease-ofuse features: click-fit connections you just push on; AquaStop valves so you can handle routine maintenance without breaking the system’s vacuum, no need to disassemble hosing; innovative handles that let you lift the entire stack of baskets out to change or clean media; and a purge valve and hosing so you can empty the canister easily, no need to move or lift a heavy, water-laden tank.

This filter’s superior performance and capability are backed by Fluval’s well earned reputation for the best in fish and aquarium care. HARS (Hagen Aquatic

Research Station) certification is your assurance of the most up-to-date and reliable research in aquacare science. For complete understanding of your

Fluval Multi-Stage Canister Filter, and enjoyment of all its capabilities, please read and follow these instructions for proper installation, maintenance, and use. Failure to do so may result in loss of fish life and/or damage to the filter. Save these instructions for future reference.

SYSTEM OVERVIEW

The FX6 Filter siphons water and suspended debris in through its clog-proof intake strainer, then sends it through three levels of foam, which traps most particulate matter. The powerful pump then sends it through the multiple levels of media, which is prepacked into the filter baskets at the factory in the recommended positions for basic filtration in order to save you time and eliminate guesswork.

As water flows back into the aquarium, the flared design of the adjustable output nozzle disperses it in multiple directions, agitating the water and creating currents that help break down wastes, and prevent them from settling. All for a continuous flow of pure, precisely treated water.

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FLUVAL STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY

AquaStop Valves

The AquaStop valve makes maintenance easy by allowing you to stop the water flow with an easy 90-degree turn of the valve lever. This means you can separate the hosing from the filter in one step. The valve lever can also be used to regulate water flow with no harm to the motor or its components. Two valves are provided: one for the intake, one for the output.

Click-it Connectors

Click-fit connectors are designed for quick set-up and leak-proof maintenance. You just push the intake and output assemblies

(Aquastop valves and attached hosing) down. Once you hear the

“click,” you know the connection is secure and watertight.

Lift-Out Stack of Media Baskets

The lift-out stack of media baskets is at the heart of Fluval multi-stage filtration. These large capacity baskets enable you to stack filtration media in the precise combination of layers that will work best for your aquarium. Each basket is lined with a foam insert and specific filtering media to grant you the best performances in your aquarium.

The instant-release T-handles let you lift, then separate the basket stack quickly and easily, making routine maintenance simple.

High Capacity Canister

The FX6’s compact, super capacity tank processes and recirculates fully

563 US gallons (2130 liters) of water every hour and accommodates the stack of media baskets with their capacity of up to 1.5 gallons

(5.9 liters) of media. Yet this enormous-capacity tank is short enough

(21 in./54cm) to fit under most large aquariums.

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FLUVAL STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY

SMART PUMP

TM

Technology

Designed and engineered for reliable filtration of delicately balanced aquarium environments, Fluval’s FX6 Smart Pump technology employs an electronic circuit board to continually monitor the pump. Impeller speed and force are constantly measured to ensure powerful output and energy efficiency.

Smart Pump technology is also critical in evacuating any air that may build up in the system. Once every 12 hours, the filter will pause and allow any trapped air to escape, thus maintaining maximum filtration efficiency.

Self-priming instant-Start

System

Self-Priming Instant-Start System

With the FX6, there’s never any need for manual siphoning. As soon as you plug the filter in, the canister fills with water from your aquarium.

It pumps for 1 minute, pauses for 2 minutes to evacuate air from the system, then immediately begins the filtering process.

Purge valve

Smart Pump

Tecnology

Purge Valve

The FX6 canister features a purge valve drain at its base. This makes it possible for you to empty the canister for maintenance before moving it.

Clog-Proof Intake Strainer

The wide, rounded mouth of the FX6 intake strainer is shaped to siphon water quickly. Covered by a fine screen that’s beveled to repel debris, it is virtually clog-proof, so there is never a build-up of solids that could impede water flow.

Multi-Directional Output Nozzle

The flared spout of the adjustable output nozzle sends multiple streams of purified water toward all corners of the aquarium, creating currents that agitate the water to break down wastes and help hold them in suspension until they can be drawn into the filter by the intake strainer. With more waste solids kept afloat, fewer settle, which means that bottom surfaces, and in fact the entire aquarium, is kept cleaner.

FLUVAL FX6 SPECIFICATIONS

Aquarium Capacity:

Pump Output:

Biological Volume:

Filtration Volume:

400 gallons 1,500 liters

925 g/h

Mechanical Area (Foam): 325.5 in.

2

1.5 gallons

5.28 gallons

3,500 l/h

2,100 cm 2

5.9 l

20 l

Filter Circulation*:

Head Height (max.):

Wattages 120V/60Hz:

563 g/h

10.8ft

2,130 l/h

3.3 m

43W

Wattages 230-240V/50Hz: 41W

*Note: Flow rates were measured with intake and output hoses of the same length and without media.

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INSTALLATION AND USE

IMPORTANT: Read all instructions before beginning.

•฀For฀best฀results,฀top฀off฀water฀in฀aquarium฀before฀beginning฀setup.

•฀Allow฀30-45฀minutes฀for฀setup฀and฀installation.

•฀Tools฀required:฀Phillips฀screwdriver฀and฀utility฀knife.

DO NOT PLUG IN FILTER UNTIL SETUP IS COMPLETE AND UNIT IS FILLED WITH WATER.

1. Unpack and identify all parts

Use the diagram on the inside front cover as a guide.

2. Prepare the aquarium

1. Decide on filter placement. Remember, this is a gravity-fed system. For it to work properly, all the

Installation Requirements below must be adhered to.

Installation Requirements

•฀For฀best฀results฀ill฀aquarium฀to฀maximum฀level฀before฀beginning฀setup.

•฀฀The฀ilter฀lid฀must฀be฀at฀least฀7.8฀in.฀(20cm)฀below฀your฀aquarium’s฀water฀level฀but฀never฀more฀than฀

4.9 ft. (150cm). NEVER install the filter above the water level.

<20 cm (7.8”.)

•฀฀

IMPORTANT: The hosing supplied with the unit is 13.1 ft (4m) long. If longer hosing is required, intake hosing must not exceed 6.5 ft. (2m) and the total length of intake and outlet hosing combined must not exceed 16.4 ft. (5m).

<20 cm (7.8”) to

< 150 cm (4.9’)

•฀฀Hosing฀ must฀ follow฀ a฀ straight฀ path฀ from฀ the฀ filter to the aquarium rim, with no slack and

no loops.

•฀฀The฀water฀level฀should฀never฀be฀more฀than฀7.8฀in.฀

(20 cm) below your aquarium rim.

•฀฀For฀best฀performance,฀the฀ilter฀should฀be฀completely฀ beneath the aquarium (as in figure shown).

•฀฀Position฀ purge฀ valve฀ so฀ that฀ you฀ will฀ be฀ able฀ to฀ attach the supplied hosing without moving the unit.

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INSTALLATION AND USE

2. Place the two rim connectors over the back top edge of the aquarium. Place one just above the spot where you want to place the intake tube; place the other just over the spot where you want to position the output nozzle. Be sure that the long end of the bracket is on the inside of the aquarium.

The rubber rings on the connectors are designed to help them adhere to tank glass better.

If the aquarium walls are thinner than 5/8” (1.58 cm) replace the rubber ring with the four smaller suction cups provided.

Important: Be sure to position the intake tube away from any air source—an air stone, an aeration device, protein skimmer or the output valve. Air entering the intake strainer will diminish filter efficiency.

Alternate Configurations

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Note: A dropped ledge rim requires purchase of an extra rim connector.

(See “Replacement Parts” for ordering information.)

INSTALLATION AND USE

3. Prepare intake connections

1. Connect the hosing to one of the two valves:

a. Loosen one of the metal clamps, and slide it onto one end of the hosing (the rubber part).

b. Push the end of the hosing onto the valve; push it all the way, as far as it will go.

c. Position the metal clamp over the rubber connector, and tighten.

of hosing that reaches comfortably from inside the aquarium to the filter canister.

Important: Hosing should follow a straight path from the filter to the aquarium rim, with no slack and no loops.

If the hosing is too long, the filter will not work efficiently

(the maximum length of the hosing is 6.5 ft / 2m).

a. Place the valve end of the hosing at the approximate spot where it will be positioned on the filter lid (once the filter is installed).

b. Stretch out the hosing so it rests over the “output”rim bracket. c. At a spot at least 6 in. (15cm) beyond the aquarium rim, use a utility knife to cut the hosing. Do not cut it too

short. Remember, you can always cut it shorter during final installation, if necessary.

3. Push the cut end of this “intake” hosing into the rubber

connector on the intake tube. Push the hosing in by at least 1 in. (2.5cm) without twisting it.

4. Place the intake strainer in the tank, making sure it is

at least 3 in. (7.5 cm) from the bottom. Adjust the intake tube for the best extension for your aquarium, respecting the

3 in (7.5 cm) from the bottom rule. Once the intake strainer is properly positioned, lock it in place by pressing the suction cups against the glass.

5. Fasten the intake strainer’s hosing onto the rim connector using the three rim connector clips.

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5

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6 in.

(15cm)

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INSTALLATION AND USE

4. Prepare output connections

(Just as for the intake hosing): a. Loosen the second metal clamp, and slide it onto the factory-finished end of the hosing (not the cut end). b. Push the end of the hosing onto the valve; push it all the way, as far as it will go.

c. Position the metal clamp over the rubber connector, and tighten.

length of hosing that reaches comfortably from inside the aquarium to the filter canister.

Reminder: Hosing should follow a straight path from the filter to the aquarium rim, with no slack and no loops. If the hose is too long, the filter will not work efficiently.

a. Place the valve end of the hosing at the approximate spot where it will be positioned on the filter lid (once the filter is installed). b. Stretch out the hosing so it rests over the “output”rim bracket. c. At a spot at least 6 in. (15cm) beyond the aquarium rim, use a utility knife to cut the hosing. Do not

cut it too short. Remember, you can always cut it shorter during final installation, if necessary.

6 in.

(15cm) the rubber connector of the output nozzle.

Push the hosing in by at least 1 in. (2.5cm) without twisting it.

below the water line.

using the three rim connector clips.

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5

INSTALLATION AND USE

5. Prepare the Filter

1. Loosen and disengage the eight lid fasteners.

2. Remove the filter lid and set it aside. Be careful not to damage the inlet stem connected to the lid.

will fall outward so the baskets can be handled separately.

Foam

Insert

T-handle

Media

Basket water to remove any dust, and place media in baskets. Or, if you prefer, select other media of your own choosing.

>0.5 in. (1 cm) certain that each kind of media is positioned at the same level it was packaged in, unless you are deliberately choosing a different filtration plan than the recommended setup. NEVER overfill baskets. Leave at least 0.5 in. (1cm) free space on top of the media, so the baskets will fit together properly.

Important: To prevent particles from entering the impeller chamber, blocking and/or damaging the impeller, all loose granule filter material (Carbon, Zeo-Carb, Ammonia

Remover, Peat Granules, etc.) must be placed in a filter media bag. Please use the bags at the bottom basket for these filtering media.

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INSTALLATION AND USE

6. Stack the baskets, carefully aligning them, so that all

shapes match. Reinsert the T-handles into their vertical slots, and replace the baskets in the filter canister. The foam in the upper basket should be just about even with the top edge of the canister (the output tube, which is affixed to the inside of the canister, will be protruding slightly).

7. Move the filter canister to its final position. position.

9. Pour at least 2 gallons (8 liters) of water into the filter canister.

IMPORTANT: Correct water volume is necessary for system priming.

10. Place the filter lid back on the canister. Check to make sure the filter lid seal ring is present and installed properly on the canister lid. There is only one orientation possible. Gently press the lid down until the output tube is firmly seated in the OUT connection on the filter lid.

IMPORTANT: If the inlet tube attached to the canister lid has slipped out of its seat, be sure to fully re-insert it under the IN connection of the lid.

11. Replace and hand-tighten the eight lid

fasteners. The lid is properly closed when it is in direct contact with the canister. DO

NOT USE ANY TOOLS, AS DOING SO MAY

DAMAGE THE UNIT.

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INSTALLATION AND USE

6. Install the Filter

amount of water.

Important Reminders:

•฀ ฀ The filter lid must be at least 7.8 in. (20 cm) below your aquarium’s water level but never more than

4.9 ft. (150 cm). NEVER install the filter above the water level.

•฀ ฀The฀hosing฀supplied฀with฀the฀unit฀is฀13.1฀ft.฀(4m)฀long.฀If longer hosing is required, intake hosing must not exceed 6.5 ft. (2m) and the total length of intake and outlet hosing combined must not exceed 16.4 ft. (5m).

•฀ IMPORTANT: Hosing must follow a straight path from the filter to the aquarium rim, with no slack and no loops.

•฀ ฀For฀the฀self฀priming฀feature฀to฀work฀properly฀the฀water฀level฀cannot be more than 7.8 in. (20 cm) below your aquarium rim.

•฀ ฀For฀best฀performance,฀the฀ilter฀should฀be฀completely฀beneath฀the฀aquarium.

•฀ ฀Position฀purge฀valve฀so฀that฀you฀will฀be฀able฀to฀attach฀the฀supplied฀hosing฀without฀moving฀the฀unit.

•฀ Assure฀the฀lid฀seal฀ring฀is฀already฀installed฀on฀the฀ilter฀canister฀lid.

the end of the hosing attached to the intake tube) ; slide it onto the IN connection on the filter lid, and press until it clicks into place.

3. Grasp the output valve (which is at the end of the hosing attached to the output nozzle) ; slide it onto the OUT connection on the filter lid, and press until it clicks into place.

4. Be certain both valves are locked in place and that the valve levers are in the open

(vertical) position before proceeding.

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INSTALLATION AND USE

7. Start the ilter

1. Check your installation.

Before turning the filter on, be sure that: a. The purge valve is in the closed

(vertical) position, and its rubber cap is

secured in place by the lock nut.

b. All top lid fasteners are well tightened.

c. The IN and OUT valves are fully open

(valve levers should be vertical) .

d. The intake strainer is fully submersed in water.

e. There are at least 2 gallons (8 liters) of water in the canister.

VERY IMPORTANT : You need to know that as soon as the unit is plugged in, it will start, and will immediately go through its automatic priming sequence.

2. Plug the unit into an electrical outlet.

The electronic automatic priming sequence will begin.

This is what will happen: a. The pump will run for 1 minute to fill the filter canister with aquarium water.

b. The pump will stop for 2 minutes to evacuate air from the filter canister.

c. The pump will start again; it will remain on and will run continuously until it is unplugged.

This sequence will repeat itself every time the unit is unplugged and plugged back in.

Approximately every 12 hours: The pump will stop for 1 minute to evacuate any air that may have become trapped inside the unit.

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FLUVAL ADVANCED FILTRATION

There are three basic types of filtration. Mechanical filter media removes waste particles and solid debris through biological and/or chemical filters, which require clear water for maximum effectiveness.

mechanical strainers. Biological filter media breaks down

To achieve maximum effectiveness, Fluval FX6 offers three and eliminate organic toxins—ammonia and nitrite— through bacterial action. Chemical filter media actively changes water characteristics through deliberately types of mechanical filtration: the external white foam traps the larger particles, the black foam traps smaller particles and the carbon foam provides an additional barrier managed chemical reactions.

to protect the pump. Protect chemical media from

Fluval offers a wide variety of filter media materials. Some perform more than one job. This is the true power of the

Fluval system—the broad range of media available for use

debris: chemical filtering media modifies the chemical characteristics of the water by absorbing toxic compounds

(eg, medicines, odours and organic contaminants). Therefore in its baskets. These extensive choices give you maximum flexibility in designing the aquatic environment just right for your aquarium.

it is necessary to prevent the chemical filter media from clogging by macro and micro-particulate. Placing chemical filter media at the last stage of filtration will allow it to work best.

The Fluval Stack of Media Baskets

1 Top Media Basket

The stack of large capacity media baskets in the Fluval FX6 filter enables you to employ all three types of filtration in whatever configuration or sequence you determine is best to meet the needs of your aquarium environment.

Media that continues the mechanical capture of small particles should be placed in the top basket, to purify water and/or remove particles before they can clog delicate pores of biological or chemical substrates. The Bio-Foam is ideal to remove small dirt particles that are not retained by the Mechanical

Filtration always begins with a mechanical stage of waste particle removal as water is drawn through the foam that lines the perimeter of each basket. Subsequently, the flow proceeds through the central area of the three baskets from top to bottom, where it is filtered by

Foam. In addition, this foam provides a large surface to accommodate bacteria colonies, providing a good environment for proliferation of beneficial bacteria and increasing the biological action of Fluval

BIOMAX.

additional mechanical, biological and chemical stages: the water is pumped down through the media in the three baskets. Because you can use the media of your choosing at each level, you will be able to design a system that provides additional mechanical, biological and chemical filtration if you wish. For detailed information, as well as general guidelines for media selection please visit www.hagen.com.

GENERAL GUIDELINE

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Middle Media Basket

The middle basket is a good place to establish the biological detoxification process. A lot of media types provide both mechanical filtration and biological treatment, creating an excellent environment for beneficial bacteria to proliferate.

With the primary mechanical purification of the water stream occurring in the Mechanical Foam and the Bio-

Foam, it is typical to load biological media such as BIOMAX into the mid level basket.

Location can determine function: For example, BIOMAX can act primarily as a screen for debris or act more as an environment for growth of beneficial bacteria, depending on where it is placed in the filtration sequence. Proper

preparation is key: some materials, such as Ammonia

Remover, require thorough rinsing so that their finest particles do not clog other modules or discharge into the aquarium. For best results and the protection of your fish, always read and follow the preparation instructions for the media you are using. Use mechanical filter media in the

first stage of filtration: this helps ensure that the water will be as free of debris as possible when it flows through

3

Bottom Media Basket

This basket receives the clearest water, making it the ideal place for dedicated chemical media. Placed here, the supplied Carbon Foam or the additional Granules, for example, efficiently remove discolorations, medications and solubilized wastes that a mechanical screen cannot.

The bags included in the package are ideal for storing any type of granular chemical filtering media. Please refer to the following section for further information to choose the best chemical media for your aquarium.

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EN-16

FLUVAL FILTER MEDIA

Ammonia Remover (Bottom Media Basket)

A-1480 (3-pk., 180g ea.)

A-1485 (700g)

A-1486 (1600g)

A-1487 (2800g)

Fluval Ammonia Remover is a natural ion-exchange media designed to remove toxic ammonia as water passes over it. Controlling ammonia levels reduces stress on fish.

Use this product to provide a healthy environment when setting up a new aquarium or maintaining one that contains a higher than average fish stock. Ammonia

Remover gradually becomes inactive. Replace regularly, at least once a month.

For freshwater use only.

ClearMax (Bottom Media Basket)

A-1348 (3-pk., 100g ea.)

Fluval ClearMax is a science grade resin designed to absorb phosphate, nitrite and nitrate. Removal of these compounds results in crystal clear water, reduces the maintenance of your aquarium, and creates ideal conditions for fish and plants.

For freshwater and marine environments.

Peat Granules (Bottom Media Basket)

A-1465 (600g)

Fluval Peat Granules are the all-natural way to soften aquarium water and achieve the pH levels required for breeding and rearing certain tropical fish. Peat contains humic acid, tanning agents, and trace elements that are essential for various life processes.

Highly concentrated for maximum effectiveness, this product is recommended for fish that prefer soft, acidic water.

For freshwater use only.

Zeo-Carb (Bottom Media Basket)

A-1490 (3-pk, 150g ea.)

A-1492 (1200g)

A-1493 (2100g)

Fluval Zeo-Carb is a premium blend of Fluval Carbon and Fluval Ammonia Remover.

Working together, these highly effective media eliminate liquefied impurities, odors, and discoloration, while, at the same time, removing toxic ammonia, for a clean, healthy aquarium. Combining two products into one gives you more space in your filter system for other types of media. Replace once a month, more often if aquarium is heavily populated. Remove when medication is being administered in aquarium water. Use carefully when keeping live plants.

For freshwater use only.

FLUVAL LAB SERIES MEDIA

Opti-Carb (Bottom Media Basket)

A-1504 (175g)

Hi-Capacity Ion Exchange Media. Opti-Carb’s mixture of ion-exchange and synthetic organic removal resins, and research grade carbon combine to create a powerful adsorbent water polishing media. Rapid reduction of dissolved organic matter, removal of proteins before they break down into toxic compounds, elimination of odors and discolorations can all be accomplished with Opti-Carb resulting in sparkling clear aquarium water.

Use as everyday filter media or for removal of specific toxic metals and organic compounds.

Does not affect pH, KH and general hardness. Treats up to 189 L (50 US

Gal.). For larger tanks use multiple bags.

Formulated for reef aquariums, freshwater or marine environments.

Phosphate Remover (Bottom Media Basket)

A-1500 (150g)

Fluval Lab Series Phosphate Remover rapidly adsorbs large quantities of Phosphate, silicate and dissolved organics without leaching adsorbed substances. Maintaining low levels of phosphate will result in cleaner, healthier aquarium water while allowing corals to efficiently absorb the calcium they require to grow and reproduce. Phosphate Remover contains ferric oxide, an iron-based phosphate binder ideal for use in aquarium filters.

150g removes up to 20 mg/L PPM of phosphate in a 50 U.S. Gal. (189 L) aquarium.

Will not affect pH or hardness.

For freshwater and marine environments.

Nitrate Remover (Bottom Media Basket)

A-1502 (150g)

Fluval Lab Series Nitrate Remover is a high capacity laboratory developed ion exchange resin. Developed from a pure high grade strong base anion exchange resin, Nitrate Remover rapidly and selectively removes nitrate and eliminates toxic nitrite in a matter of hours, resulting in a healthy environment for your fish.

•฀ Safe฀for฀ish,฀plants฀and฀invertebrates

•฀ Will฀not฀affect฀pH฀or฀hardness

•฀ Does฀not฀contain฀phosphates

Resin can be recharged several times. Removes up to 25 mg/L (ppm) of nitrate in a 50 U.S. Gal. (189 L) aquarium.

For freshwater use only.

EN-17

MAINTENANCE PURGE VALVE DRAINING

WARNING: ALWAYS DISCONNECT ALL APPLIANCES IN THE AQUARIUM FROM ELECTRICITY SUPPLY

BEFORE PLACING HANDS IN THE WATER, BEFORE PUTTING ON OR TAKING OFF PARTS, AND

WHENEVER THE FILTER EQUIPMENT IS BEING INSTALLED, MAINTAINED OR HANDLED.

Filter media must be periodically replaced or cleaned in accordance with instructions on individual packages. Please refer also to the “Maintenance Frequency Chart” at the beginning of this instruction manual. Prior to periodic media care the FX6 filter canister must be drained.

฀

฀

The FX6 filter offers you two methods to drain the canister:

•฀Option฀1:฀Purge฀Valve฀Draining

•฀Option฀2:฀Filter฀Pump฀Draining฀(kit฀sold฀separately).

Purge Valve Draining

Larger, heavier particles of aquarium debris will collect in the bottom of the canister, outside the bottom media basket. The purge valve at the base of the unit allows for partial discharge of this heavy debris. There is no need to open the filter lid or disconnect the hosing.

To use the purge valve to drain the water from the filter canister you could use the supplied drain hose that is long enough to reach from the canister to a drain or basin.

1. Turn the IN and OUT valves in sequence to the closed (horizontal) position.

2. Unplug the pump from the electrical power supply. loosen it, then remove the rubber drain cap.

valve, and position the other end in an appropriate basin or discharge drain. Be sure the hose is secured to the purge valve.

5. First, turn the purge valve to the open (horizontal) position by turning it counterclockwise. Then

disconnect the OUT valve: press its release button, and lift it from the filter lid. It is a good idea to have a cloth handy as some water will escape when removing the AquaStop valve.

water will stop draining once the water level in the canister and drain bucket equalize. Once this happens simply close the valve and empty the bucket. Repeat the draining process until enough water is removed to make the canister light enough to carry to your work area.

the drain hose. Replace the rubber drain cap and secure with the locknut, turn the locknut counter clockwise to secure the drain cap in place. Disconnect the IN valve and move to an appropriate work area.

EN-18

MAINTENANCE FILTER PUMP DRAINING

Filter Pump Draining

To use the filter pump to drain the water from the filter canister you will need to prepare a drainage hose using the Fluval Pump Draining

Kit (sold separately). It is recommended as it will secure tightly to the purge valve using the lock nut connector. to the hosing in the kit securing it to the valve with a

hose clamp. Follow the instructions in the “Installation and

Use” section, “Prepare intake connections” Step #1.

It is a good idea to have a cloth handy as some water will escape when removing the AquaStop valve.

(horizontal position).

from the canister.

(prepared in Step 1 above) to the OUT connection on the canister. WARNING: Be sure the drainage hose and AquaStop valve is connected to the OUT connection.

6. Position the hose opening in an appropriate drain basin. the Aquastop in the closed position.

filter pump run until all the water is drained from the canister.

9. Once the filter is drained unplug the unit.

10. Disconnect the drainage AquaStop valve and move canister to appropriate work area.

IMPORTANT: please remember the electronic automatic priming sequence during the draining operation, if you use the pump over an extended period of time.

EN-19

MAINTENANCE MEDIA CARE

Cleaning or Replacing Media

1. Move the filter to an appropriate area convenient for maintenance. to damage the inlet stem connected to the lid.

fall out of their slots, and separate the baskets.

water, or replace with new foam, as required.

5. Rinse biological media with aquarium water, or replace, as required.

6. Replace chemical media, as needed. Chemical media cannot be cleaned.

or detergents when cleaning the canister or rinsing the baskets, as remaining traces of cleaning products may damage sensitive fish tissue.

>0.5 in. (1 cm)

appropriate areas of the baskets. Arrange foam inserts carefully, being certain that each piece covers the entire half-circle of the basket from bottom to top. Be sure to leave at least 0.5 in. (1cm) of free space on the top of filter media so that baskets will stack properly.

EN-20

MAINTENANCE MEDIA CARE

Reassemble Unit

T-handles into their vertical slots, and replace the baskets in the filter canister. Foam in upper basket should be just about even with the top edge of the canister.

2. Replace filter lid. possible. Gently press the lid down until the output tube, affixed to the inside of the filter canister, is firmly seated in the output (OUT) valve lid opening.

Important: If the inlet tube attached to the canister lid has slipped out of its seat, be sure to fully re-insert it under the IN connection of the lid. contact with the canister. DO NOT USE ANY TOOLS, AS DOING SO MAY DAMAGE THE UNIT.

into place. Be sure the IN valve is connected to the hose attached to the intake strainer, and the OUT valve is connected to the hose attached to the output nozzle.

5. Open the IN valve (turn to vertical position).

Do not change this sequence, or the canister will not refill properly. If the canister is no longer primed, you will need to remove the lid, pour about 8 liters (2 gallons) of water into the canister, and replace the lid. (See “Start the Filter”

Step #7)

Meanwhile, air will be forced through the output nozzle, causing bubbling and agitation in the aquarium. Once the bubbling in the aquarium stops, plug the power cord back in. The pump will resume its normal stop/start sequence as described in “Start the Filter.”

8. Remember the date of your last filter maintenance/water change by simply rotating the Monthly Indicator Dials

(located on the filter cover) to line up with the current month.

Water

Change

2 3

Filter

Maintenance

EN-21

MAINTENANCE PUMP CARE

Pump Care: Impeller Maintenance

WARNING: ALWAYS DISCONNECT ALL APPLIANCES IN THE AQUARIUM FROM ELECTRICITY SUPPLY

BEFORE PLACING HANDS IN THE WATER, BEFORE PUTTING ON OR TAKING OFF PARTS, AND

WHENEVER THE FILTER EQUIPMENT IS BEING INSTALLED, MAINTAINED OR HANDLED.

The impeller well has an effective self-cleaning feature. However it is recommended that you remove the motor and inspect the impeller as part of your routine maintenance. Keeping the impeller clean lengthens its life and the life of the motor. Prior to performing pump care the FX6 Filter must be completely emptied of water, media baskets, and media.

in the Media Care Section. Move unit to appropriate work space.

canister. Empty the canister completely in a sink or basin.

a. Place the filter unit upside down on a secure work area so that the pump screws and screw seats are

visible. Remember that the output tube protrudes slightly from the top rim of the canister. Be sure not to bend or damage the tube while it is upside down. b. Unscrew the 4 fixing screws using a Phillips screw-

driver (cross headed). Screws are located around the motor housing.

c. Remove the impeller assembly by grasping its flange

(black disc).

rinsing with clear running water.

c b

EN-22

MAINTENANCE PUMP CARE

5. Reassemble all pump components with care:

a. Align the two arrows on the impeller assembly. Before inserting the impeller, gently press the magnet against the flange to be sure that the flange bushing is fully in its seat.

b. Replace seal ring.

screws with a Phillips screw-driver (cross headed). While re-assembling the pump, the 4 fixing screws should be gently screwed until pump motor cover and canister are securely attached. Note: Do not over tighten housing to canister.

IMPORTANT: Be sure that impeller bearing (bushing and O-Ring) is correctly placed at the bottom of the impeller well. Though the bushing is made of very resistant material, it is prone to wearing in certain conditions. For this reason, it is recommended that you replace it whenever the impeller unit is replaced. Follow the instructions provided with the replacement parts package. For any details, please refer to the Maintenance

Frequency Chart at the beginning of this instruction manual.

IMPORTANT: Be sure that the seal ring does not slip between the impeller flange and the motor and that the impeller bearing (bushing and O-Ring) is correctly placed at the bottom of the impeller well.

7. Reassemble, reconnect, and restart the unit. b a

EN-23

CHANGING AQUARIUM WATER

Changing Aquarium Water

1. To change the aquarium water using the filter pump, prepare a drainage hose using the Fluval Pump Draining Kit (sold separately) and follow the instructions indicated in “Filter Pump Draining,

Step 1”.

(horizontal) position.

3. Unplug the pump from the electrical power supply.

Note: It is a good idea to have a cloth handy as some water will escape when removing the AquaStop valve.

OUT connection on the canister lid. Then connect the

AquaStop valve and drainage hose (prepared in Step 1 above) in the OUT connection.

in an appropriate drain.

(vertical) position.

cord into an electrical outlet. Let the pump run until the desired amount of water has been drained from the aquarium.

8. Close the IN valve and unplug the unit.

EN-24

CHANGING AQUARIUM WATER

9. CAUTION: the drain hosing may still have some water inside.

10. Replace the OUT valve back on the OUT lid connector.

11. Replace water.

12. Open the IN and OUT valves (valve levers should be vertical).

13. Plug in the unit. maintenance/water change by simply rotating the Monthly Indicator Dials

(located on the filter cover) to line up with the current month.

IMPORTANT: please remember the electronic automatic priming sequence during the draining operation, if you use the pump over an extended period of time.

EN-25

REPLACEMENT PARTS

m j d e i c p h q o l b

PART a Lid Fasteners b T-bar Handle c Filter Lid ( O-Ring) d Rim conn. Suction cup Ø20 e Metal Clamp (for Hosing) f Rubber Feet g Motor Unit h Media Basket i Top Cover Click-fit O-Ring j Aquastop Valve

EN-26 k n g a r t s u f

QTY NUMBER

1

4

1

1

2

1

4

2

1

1

A20215

A20241

A20210

A20232

A20234

A20121

A20201

A20239

A20212

A20216

PART k Intake Strainer l Intake Stem m Rim Connector & clips (3) n Intake Strainer Suction Cup o Output Nozzle p Ribbed Hosing q Rubber connector r Magnetic Impeller Assembly s Motor Seal Ring t Purge Valve u Purge valve hosing

QTY NUMBER

1

2

1

1

1

1

2

1

1

1

1

A20221

A20225

A20230

A15041

A20226

A20236

A20228

A20206

A20207

A20219

A20237

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 web site at www.hagen.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 8:30 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 9:00 a.m. and

4:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.

Ask for Customer Service.

UK

Helpline Number 01977 556622

Between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday

(excluding Bank Holidays)

Ask for Customer Service.

FOR AUTHORIZED GUARANTEE REPAIR SERVICE:

Return with dated receipt and $4.00 for postage and handling to:

Consumer Repairs

Rolf C. Hagen (USA) Corp

305 Forbes Blvd

Mansfield, MA 02048

FOR AUTHORIZED GUARANTEE REPAIR SERVICE:

Return with dated receipt and $4.00 for postage and handling to:

Rolf C. Hagen Inc.

Service and Repair

20500 Trans Canada Hwy

Baie d’Urfé, Québec H9X 0A2

FOR AUTHORISED WARANTY SERVICE please return

(well packaged and by registered post) to the address below enclosing dated receipt and reason for return.

Customer Service Department

Rolf C. Hagen (UK) Ltd

California Drive, Whitwood Ind Est., Castleford

West Yorkshire WF10 5QH

RECYCLING: This symbol bears the selective sorting symbol for waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). This means that this product must be handled pursuant to European Directive 2002/96/EC 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.

hree Year Warranty

The Fluval FX6 Canister Filter is guaranteed against defects in material and workmanship under normal aquarium usage and service for 3 years from date of purchase. Non-replaceable and non-serviceable parts will be repaired or replaced at Hagen’s discretion, free of charge, when the complete filter is returned with all components along with a valid proof of purchase and postage paid. This warranty does not apply to any filter that has been subject to misuse, negligence or tampering. It does not apply to filters which have been incorrectly assembled or unsuitably maintained or where installation and maintenance instructions have not been followed correctly.

The warranty does not apply to wear and tear parts such as the impeller, impeller cover or motor seal. No liability is assumed with respect to loss or damage to livestock or personal property irrespective of the cause thereof. Before returning the filter under warranty terms, please ensure that all setup and maintenance instructions have been followed. If you are in doubt, please contact your local aquatic specialist retailer for further advice before returning the product.

EN-27

hree Year Warranty

The Fluval FX6 Canister Filter is guaranteed against defects in material and workmanship under normal aquarium usage and service for 3 years from date of purchase. Non-replaceable and non-serviceable parts will be repaired or replaced at Hagen’s discretion, free of charge, when the complete filter is returned with all components along with a valid proof of purchase and postage paid. This warranty does not apply to any filter that has been subject to misuse, negligence or tampering. It does not apply to filters which have been incorrectly assembled or unsuitably maintained or where installation and maintenance instructions have not been followed correctly. The warranty does not apply to wear and tear parts such as the impeller, impeller cover or motor seal. No liability is assumed with respect to loss or damage to livestock or personal property irrespective of the cause thereof. Before returning the filter under warranty terms, please ensure that all setup and maintenance instructions have been followed. If you are in doubt, please contact your local aquatic specialist retailer for further advice before returning the product.

Garantía de tres años

El filtro de vaso Fluval FX6 esta garantizado contra defectos de materiales y mano de obra en condiciones de uso y servicio normales del acuario durante 3 años a partir de la fecha de compra. Las piezas no sustituibles y no reparables serán reparadas o reemplazadas según el criterio de Hagen, sin costo alguno, cuando devuelva el filtro completo con todos sus componentes, un comprobante de compra válido y el pago del envío.

La garantía no se aplica a los filtros que hayan sido sometidos a uso incorrecto, negligencia o maltrato.

Tampoco se aplica a los filtros que se ensamblaron de modo incorrecto o cuyo mantenimiento fue inadecuado, o si las instrucciones de instalación y mantenimiento no se respetaron debidamente. La garantía no se aplica a las piezas de desgaste, como el impulsor, la tapa del impulsor o el sello del motor. No se asume ninguna responsabilidad en relación con la pérdida o daños de los animales de cría o de la propiedad personal independientemente de qué los ocasione. Antes de devolver el filtro conforme a los términos de la garantía, procure que se hayan respetado todas las instrucciones de ensamble y mantenimiento. Si tiene alguna duda, comuníquese con el vendedor especialista en productos acuáticos local para obtener más información antes de devolver el producto.

Garantie de trois (3) ans

Le filtre extérieur Fluval FX6 est garanti contre tout défaut de matériaux et de fabrication pour une période de trois ans, dans des conditions normales d’utilisation et d’entretien dans un aquarium. La garantie s’applique

à toutes les pièces non remplaçables, ce qui signifie que le filtre sera réparé ou remplacé sans frais, à la discrétion du fabricant, lorsque le filtre complet sera retourné, port payé et accompagné d’une preuve d’achat. Cette garantie ne s’applique à aucun filtre utilisé de façon inappropriée, avec négligence ou ayant été modifié. Cette garantie n’est pas valide si le filtre a été mal assemblé, mal entretenu ou que le mode d’emploi et les instructions d’entretien n’ont pas été suivis correctement. La garantie ne s’applique pas à l’usure normale de la couronne mobile, de son couvercle et du joint d’étanchéité. Le fabricant ne peut

être tenu responsable des pertes d’animaux ou des dommages causés aux biens personnels, quelle qu’en soit la raison. Avant de retourner le filtre conformément aux conditions de garantie, veuillez vous assurer que toutes les instructions relatives au montage et à l’entretien ont été suivies à la lettre. En cas de doutes, veuillez communiquer avec votre détaillant local spécialisé en aquariophilie avant de retourner l’article.

Drie jaar garantie

Bij een normaal gebruik en onderhoud van het aquarium zijn de Fluval FX6 Busfilter Reeks gewaarborgd tegen materiaal- en productiefouten gedurende een periode van 3 jaar vanaf de aankoopdatum. Niet-vervangbare en niet-duurzame onderdelen worden naar eigen goeddunken van Hagen kosteloos hersteld of vervangen, wanneer de volledige filter wordt teruggestuurd met alle onderdelen, samen met een geldig aankoopbewijs en portvrij. Deze garantie heeft geen betrekking op filters die onderhevig waren aan verkeerd gebruik, nalatigheid of schokken. Ze is evenmin van toepassing op filters die verkeerd zijn gemonteerd of onderhouden of waarbij de instructies voor installatie en onderhoud niet correct gevolgd zijn. De garantie is niet van toepassing op slijtageonderdelen zoals de aandrijver, het aandrijverdeksel of de motorafdichting. Bij verlies of schade aan dieren of persoonlijke bezittingen is aansprakelijkheid uitgesloten, ongeacht de oorzaak ervan. Alvorens de filter onder de garantievoorwaarden terug te sturen, moet u ervoor zorgen dat alle montage-, regel- en onderhoudsinstructies gevolgd zijn. Als u twijfelt, vraag dan advies aan uw lokale aquariumspecialist alvorens het product terug te sturen.

ARGENTINA

Hagen S.A. Argentina

Ruta Panamericana - Ramal Escobar Km 33,5

Colectora Oeste Esq. Benjamin Seaver Área de Promoción El Triángulo

CP: B1615MRC Malvinas Argentinas,

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Tel: (+543327) 411-591

Printed in Italy

Ver: 49/12-E/F/S/D