CPR Bak-Pak 2 problems

Hi,
I have a CPR Bak-Pak 2 in my 20 gallon tank that has been running quite well and pulling out some nasty stuff for a few mounths now. But recently I have been checking on my skimmer and I will see it is not making any bubbles. I have figured out the only way to stop it is to tug up on the air line tubing (this will bring the bubbles back to normal), but after 5 min it will stop the bubble. I can be there every 5 min checking on my skimmer so how can i stop this? Thanks.

 

Disassemble pump and clean it, then I would take let it sit in some white vinegar for a couple hours (air tube as well). Run in the bath tub to make sure everything is working and then reassemble. You should see it working like new

Good Luck!

 

I used to have the original CPR Bak-Pak. How long has yours been running for? You shouldn't have to hold onto the skimmer or whatever your doing to have it make bubbles, maybe some part has an issue or something?

Best of luck!

 

My skimmer slowed down when I added mangroves in my tank.. Did you add anything new?

 

The venturi is getting clogged with salt build up. Like mentioned, soak it in vinegar and the will help. To keep this from becoming an ongoing problem you can open it up every few months and unclog the venturi by hand. A little RODI water through the venturi also helps.


BTW...

http://www.cpraquatic.com/pdf/bakpak.pdf

They recommend cleaning the pump monthly.

 

Agreed with the buildup. Every week, I submerge the air intake to dissolve the salt blockage, and when I get calcium buildup and use a needle to break it away and it works like new again. I've modded my MJ1200 to direct intake instead of the venturi piece it comes with.

 

Which pump did your Bak pak coem with? The Accella, MJ1200 or a Rio60rvt?

 

the accella

 

The Accella clogs up less then the other two and is a much better pump for the Bak Pak.