Reef Octopus Variable Speed Pump Maintenance

In this episode of [CVtv] we will cover the maintenance and troubleshooting of the Reef Octopus VarioS and RODC variable speed pumps.

In this episode of [CVtv] we will cover the maintenance and troubleshooting of the Reef Octopus VarioS and RODC variable speed pumps.

The Reef Octopus variable speed pump consists of 3 main components

1. Power Supply
2. Controller Box
3. and Pump

Power supply, controller box and pump.

All three are necessary for the pump to operate. If the pump does not work we need to look into all three of these parts to narrow down the source of the problem.

On average you should clean and inspect your Reef Octopus DC pump every 4-6 months. A soak in a mild solution of vinegar and water, removing the impeller and inspecting if for any buildup debris or damage will keep your pump running at peak performance.

A 50/50 water and vinegar solution is the most effective and inexpensive way to clean pumps.

Disassembly

To disassemble the pump and service the impeller could not be easier. There are no tools required. Simply remove the pump base by sliding it towards the rear of the pump.

Remove the pump base by sliding it towards the rear of the pump.

Next grab the volute cover and rotate the volute housing counter clockwise off of the pump exposing the impeller.

To remove the volute, rotate it counterclockwise to unlock.

To remove the impeller grab the sides of the white shield and gently pull outward. Sometimes it helps if you gently rock side to side to loosen its seating.

To remove the impeller grab the sides of the white shield and gently pull outward.

Reassemble

Before inserting the impeller into the pump cavity please make sure that the front drive bushing is fully inserted into the white shield. Ensure that the slit on the shield lines up with the cooling channel on the pump and carefully insert it into the pump cavity.

 Ensure that the slit on the shield lines up with the cooling channel on the pump.

Make sure to not obstruct the cooling channel.

Try not to let the impeller jet into the cavity of the pump and possibly damage the impeller or rear drive bearing.

Try not to let the impeller jet into the cavity of the pump and possibly damage the impeller or rear drive bearing.

Before installing the volute make sure that the impeller is fully inserted into the pump and that the shield is seated properly.

Before installing the volute make sure that the impeller is fully inserted into the pump and that the shield is seated properly.

With the volute 15 degrees counter clockwise from its intended position push the volute onto the front of the pump and turn clockwise to lock. 

With the volute 15 degrees counter clockwise from its intended position push the volute onto the front of the pump and turn clockwise to lock.

Slide the pump base back on the foot of the pump to complete its assembly.

Troubleshooting

Now, here are some troubleshooting tips for the most common issues.

My Reef Octopus DC pump controller is not working. It is connected but the lights are off. What should I do?

Check to make sure that the light on the power supply is illuminated and remains in a solid green state.

Ensure the power supply LED light is on.

If not inspect the power cord to insure that it is fully inserted into the power brick. Also make sure that the power socket is active. Grab another power cord from any number of appliances to see if the cord itself is at fault.

My pump works but it seems a bit sluggish. What could it be?

Usually this is a sign that the pump requires maintenance. To obtain optimal performance and long life, the RODC and VarioS pumps need to be cleaned on a regular basis. This means taking the pump completely apart, cleaning impellers and inspecting all wearable components. Over several years you may need to replace the impeller to regain the performance it once had.

Don’t forget when maintaining your skimmer pump that the air intake also known as the venturi is clean of any saltcreap or mineral buildup that will obstruct the intake of air to the protein skimmer.

My pump will not operate. What is wrong with it?

Please remove the pump and completely disassemble it. Make sure that all components are clean and in good working condition and then assemble the pump again following the instructions at the beginning of this video. Make sure that the front bushing is fully inserted into the white shield, which will trigger the controller to power down the pump.

If you are still experiencing issues with your Reef Octopus pump, or have technical questions that you wish to ask, please head over to www.coralvue.com/support and submit a support ticket.

If you are in need of replacement parts, please head over to www.coralvue.com/rodc-pump for a complete list of all available parts.