IceCap DC-400L Utility Pump
SKU: IC-DC400L
MSRP: $ 56,70
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Available Through Authorized Retailer
- Dynamic Inline Speed Controller: Built-in controller module facilitates immediate manual flow adjustments and clean on/off toggling without pulling the power plug.
- Efficient 12V DC Safe Operation: Runs on a low-voltage 12V power supply drawing a maximum of 15W, minimizing electrical running costs and ambient under-cabinet heat.
- Impressive Head Pressure Rating: Engineered with a compact internal impeller stack capable of pushing water up to a 14-foot maximum head height (14ft).
- Smooth 3/8-Inch Outlet Node: Features a structural 3/8-inch vertical discharge point that connects directly to standard silicone tubing via the included push-fit barb adapter.
- Ultra-Compact Footprint Profile: Measures an exceptionally small 2.5 x 2.375 x 2.125 inches (2.5in×2.375in×2.125in), sliding effortlessly into tight nano sections, AIO rear chambers, or ATO reservoirs.
- Submersible Multi-Task Utility: Ideal for auto top-off systems, micro-sized nano return chambers, driving media reactors, running fast water changes, or vacuuming sump silt.
IceCap
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IceCap DC-400L Variable Speed Submersible Utility Pump (IC-DC400L)
The IceCap DC-400L Submersible Utility Pump (SKU: IC-DC400L) is an authentic, highly versatile fluid-management module distributed by CoralVue to streamline non-stop water delivery across small-format aquariums and demanding maintenance loops. Traditional AC utility pumps are notorious for running hot, humming loudly, and operating at a fixed, unalterable speed. If your media reactor or small nano filtration chamber requires a delicate, low-volume flow stream, an AC pump forces you to manually throttle down the output using mechanical ball valves, which stresses the motor block and shortens its lifespan. The IC-DC400L completely solves this maintenance issue by pairing a smooth, low-voltage 12V DC motor structure directly with an inline electronic controller module.
This tiny powerhouse moves up to 105 gallons per hour (400 LPH) while drawing a maximum of 15 watts from the wall. Its space-conscious vertical chassis makes it perfect for deployment inside small all-in-one (AIO) rear filter arrays or narrow top-off reservoirs where horizontal pumps cannot fit. Because it features a rare, high-head pressure rating capable of pushing water upward up to 14 feet, it easily lifts top-off water from a floor-level cabinet bucket straight up to a tall display tank rim. Complete with a modular push-fit barb fitting that connects securely to standard 3/8-inch flexible lines, this whisper-quiet pump serves as a reliable, long-lasting solution for automatic top-offs, reactor feeding, or automated water exchange configurations.
Key Features
Prevents Splattering or Overfills: The manual inline controller wheel allows you to dial down the pump velocity to match the exact turnover needs of delicate inline carbon reactors or macroalgae scrubbers.
Whisper-Quiet Operation: Brushless internal DC motor dampens mechanical vibrational feedback, ensuring the pump runs silently behind enclosed cabinet frames or desktop backgrounds.
Turnkey Plumbing Interfacing: Includes modular push-fit adapters that reduce installation friction, preventing loose tube junctions from slipping off and spraying water unexpectedly.
(Note: This electrical accessory covers one standalone submersible utility pump, inline controller link, and power transformer brick. Flexible vinyl or silicone plumbing lines are sold under separate product categories).
What’s Included:
(1) IceCap DC-400L Submersible Pump Chassis with Integrated Air Intake Grate
(1) Attached Inline Electronic Speed Controller Module Cord
(1) 12V DC Power Adapter Transformer Block
(1) 3/8-Inch Push-Fit Barb Plumbing Connector Adapter
Technical Specs:
Official Manufacturing Title: IceCap DC-400L Utility Pump
SKU / Factory Part Identifier: IC-DC400L
Maximum System Flow Rate: 105 Gallons Per Hour (400 Liters Per Hour)
Maximum Rated Head Lift: 14.0 Feet (4.20 Meters) Absolute Ceiling
Total Chassis Dimensions: 2.5"L x 2.375"W x 2.125"H (Excluding Threaded Fittings)
Maximum Operational Power Consumption: 15 Watts Peak
Input Voltage Safety Matrix: 12V DC Low-Voltage System
Discharge Output Plumbing Profile: 3/8-Inch Smooth Slip Joint
Aquarium Water Suitability: 100% Safe for Marine Reefs, Freshwater Community, and Planted Aquascapes
Warranty
CoralVue, Inc. hereby guarantees this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of:
- 1 Year
Warranty is activated on the date of purchase.
This Standard Limited Warranty applies and is limited as follows:
- To the product only as long as it remains in the possession of the original purchaser.
- To the product that has not been subject to accident, misuse or abuse.
- To the product that has not been modified, altered, defaced, or had repairs made or attempted by other than CoralVue, Inc.
- That CoralVue be immediately notified in writing within ten (10) days of first knowledge of defect by owner or his agent.
- That CoralVue, Inc. shall be given first opportunity to make any repairs, replacements or corrections to the defective construction within a reasonable period of time.
- Under no circumstances shall CoralVue and/or the Manufacturer be liable by virtue of this warranty or otherwise for damage to any person or property whatsoever for any special, indirect, secondary or consequential damages of any nature however arising out of the use or inability to use because of the product defect.
- Unbox your IC-DC400L pump block. Push the included 3/8" push-fit barb adapter down firmly onto the top vertical output node until it seats tightly.
- Slide a section of standard 3/8-inch inner diameter flexible silicone or vinyl tubing completely over the barb fitting. Secure with a plastic snap-clamp if using the pump under high vertical backpressure.
- Submerge the pump fully underwater in your choice of sump chamber, ATO freshwater reservoir, or water change container. Warning: This pump is strictly submersible and cannot be operated dry/externally.
- Route the power cord out of the water, ensuring a proper "drip loop" is formed to prevent water droplets from creeping down the line into the electrical plug.
- Link the pump controller cable to the 12V power supply transformer and plug the brick into a standard GFCI-protected household wall outlet.
- Use the dial on the inline speed controller to calibrate your desired output rate. Check all plumbing connections to ensure a secure, leak-free installation.
Pro Tips:
- Always Form a Drip Loop on the Cord Prior to the Controller Connection. Because the inline controller module sits permanently along the main power cord, it is vital to position the controller card higher than the lowest point of the hanging wire. Always create a downward-looping curve ("drip loop") in the cable before it routes into the controller or wall outlet. If any water drips down the cord during filter maintenance, the loop forces the water to drop safely onto your cabinet floor rather than running directly into the electrical housing, protecting your pump from short-circuit failures.
- Soak the Impeller Matrix in Vinegar Quarterly to Prevent Mineral Compaction. Over months of continuous submergence, calcium buildup, salt creep, and organic debris will naturally gather inside the pump's spinning magnetic drive chamber. To keep it running at peak efficiency, unscrew the front intake screen every 90 days, slide out the magnetic impeller assembly, and soak the parts in a 50/50 mix of warm fresh water and distilled white vinegar for two hours. This completely dissolves hard calcium scale, preventing the pump from stalling or overheating under heavy loads.
- Never Run the Pump Dry in an Empty ATO Reservoir Tank. While the DC-400L features smart electronic internals, running it completely dry for extended periods when your automatic top-off reservoir empties can cause friction heat to build up inside the ceramic shaft housing. If you notice your top-off bucket is low, power down the pump line manually using the inline controller before refilling the water volume. This simple habit keeps the internal seals perfectly intact and ensures your pump runs safely for years.