Planctonite has updated their popular sweeper product to a new version, 2.0. This new version is an upgrade to the sweeper and adds additional functionality. “In this new version of Sweeper the cleaning head is magnetically driven, facilitating the cleaning/rinsing of the system and easy storage when not in use for long periods of time.” You can connect your sweeper to your favorite controller of choice to actually control when the sweeper does clean your protein skimmer allowing you to fully customize your skimmer cleaning experience. How cool is that? There are two different kits that Planctonite is offering, the low cost option is €193.50 ($280) or if you prefer you can upgrade to the plus package which gives you access to a spray-bar plus the additional parts and accessories for that for only €80 ($116). You can order them directly on Planctonite’s website.
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Sweeper is a motorised device that will keep in optimal conditions your skimmer performance.
During the normal operation of your skimmer, the waste accumulates in the skimmer neck, forming a (sometimes thick) layer that blocks the smooth raise of the foam that should overflow to the collection cup.
Connect ‘Sweeper’ to a standard timer or better yet, to your Aquatronica, Profilux, IKS, aquarium computer and program it so it is activated a couple of minutes every hour. The rubber wiper-blade will “brush” the neck’s inner surface, breaking the first layer of protein built up that would be the base of a massive accumulation.
Sweeper is not a cleaning system itself but rather a system to avoid the efficiency loss over time in any skimmer.
Fuerthermore, the increase on surface helps the foam to “climb” faster within the skimmer neck, facilitating its way to the collection cup.
Two models are readily available, depending on the automation level required:
Sweeper V2.0:
Neck cleaning is accomplished by a motorised rubber brush, whose height, angle and pressure are easily set-up.
Sweeper V2.0 Plus:
Neck and cup cleaning are accomplished by a combination between a motorised rubber brush and water taken from sump (submersible 12V water pump included). A second spare intake can be used to flush the collection cup with tap water in skimmers fitted with evacuation valve. Water recirculation can be switched on/off.
