- Today, the top 12 tips and tricks
from install to accessories
for EcoTech's MP10, 40 and 60 VorTech pumps.
Number one, let's hide the ugly white squares.
So instead of that ugly, sticky white stuff on the back
of the cable management squares use double-sided tape.
But not just any double-sided tape use the 3M VHB tape.
Not only does it hold better, but it has an invisible bond
so you can't see it through the glass.
We just use a little bit of vinegar.
We scrape off that sticky part slack on the 3M tape
and now you're secure and managed.
Well, at least your dry side is anyway.
Number two, reduce the stress.
Since we're talking about securing your dry side
and doing some cable management.
There are two things to keep in mind,
what goes in must eventually come out.
So you will need to move your pumps, maybe not today
but you will.
So make it easy for yourself when you do
and don't over-manage your cords.
Also make sure that the cord on the dry side is straight
because sharp bends can actually cause the wires to come out
of the housing and potentially damage your expensive pump.
Number three, turn it off before turning it back on.
So if your VorTech pump does get bumped
and either the wet or the dry side falls
that magnet will not go back together if the power's on.
So turn the power off and then reattach.
If your VorTech consistently falls off, though,
check to make sure that you're using
the right size thickness spacer
for your glass or your acrylic.
Number four, use it before you lose it.
Instead of turning your VorTech off during feeding,
use the feed mode which keeps your pump running
at a low speed.
This way, your fish can't use your VorTech
as a resting or hiding spot only to get chopped into pieces
when your pump restarts.
For a peace of mind here
it'll turn back to normal programming after a few moments.
Number five, you can save your tank
but only if you buy one, so get a battery backup.
For all of the time and the money
that we put into our tanks,
a battery backup is the best insurance plan
that money can buy.
With up to 72 hours of protection,
depending on your VorTech pump.
Learn from my mistakes.
As I personally lost my rare angel fish collection
due to a power outage,
but never again, will I go unprotected.
Number six, always have a spare
because easy maintenance makes for consistent maintenance,
so have a backup wet side.
When it's time to clean your wet sides,
just take the dirty one out,
put the clean one back in.
Plus in the case of an emergency
now you have an extra.
Number seven, bath time.
Give your wet side a good soak in citric acid
and use a soft brush to brush off any excess algae.
It's not only faster and easier
but it's the safest way to clean all of your equipment.
Plus keeping a clean machine will likely
keep your VorTech running for many years to come.
Number eight, follow the crowd.
If you're wondering what mode is best for your tank,
make sure to check out the Reef Cress Mode.
It is one of the most popular set and forget modes
and a great starting point for beginners.
Number nine, finishing touches.
This is a maintenance trick that I have been doing
for years.
Don't toss out the foam pad
that actually comes with the pump.
Use it to polish your water during water changes.
After maintenance is done, remove it
rinse it out in IODA water and it's ready for next time.
Number 10, don't dump your old pump.
If you have an older VorTech and want wifi control
you don't need to buy a new one.
You can get up to speed
with an upgraded wifi chip for under $25
from EcoTech Direct.
Number 11 accessorize to organize.
Use EcoTech's driver and power supply brackets
for organization because the power supply bracket
has easy to remove Velcro straps.
You can use them universally.
So grab a few extra and organize all your cord chaos.
Number 12, get the Neat Aquatics protection plan.
For less than $50 you can protect your nems
and your delicate fish from being sucked into your VorTech.
As an added bonus, you get to choose your flow pattern,
whether it's wide or narrow.
So if there's one thing that you heard
over the last few minutes, let it be this
go get a battery backup.
So click the link and don't be like so many
of us that have learned the hard way
and lost not only lots of money,
but our pets to power outages.