AquaMaxx ConeS CO Protein Skimmer Setup Guide

Categories: Setup Guide, Protein Skimmers

Last updated: Dec 30, 2021

The ConeS is the workhorse of the AquaMaxx line of skimmers and is available in five different models for tanks ranging in size from 75 gallons all the way up to 800 gallons.

AQUAMAXX CO SERIES = THE "WORKHORSE" IN-SUMP SERIES
If you`ve got the room in your sump, go with the CO series. Maximize the bubble reaction chamber with the pump on the outside of the body, and makes it easier to access the pump for maintenance.
Model		ConeS CO-1	ConeS CO-2	ConeS CO-3	ConeS CO-5	ConeS CO-6
Footprint (In.)		6.3" x 8.7"	7.1" x 14.2" (or 9.1" x 12.6")	12.3" x 14.2"	16.6" x 13.8" (or 20.1" x 10.7")	16.6" x 18.2" (or 22.1" x 12.6")
Height (In.)		19.7"	22.1"	22.9"	22.9"	22.9"
Motor		Shark 1.5^a	Shark 2.0^a	Shark 3.0^a	Shark 6.0^b	Shark 7.0^c
Gallon Rating	Light Bio-Load:	Up to 175g	Up to 300g	Up to 450g	Up to 600g	Up to 800g
	Medium Bio-Load:	~120g	~220g	~360g	~450g	~650g
	Heavy Bio-Load:	Up to 90g	Up to 160g	Up to 270g	Up to 350g	Up to 500g

Assembly

Attach the pump to the base of the protein skimmer.
Attach bubble diffuser to the pump/skimmer base using the included nylon screws.
Attach skimmer body to the base assembly. Twist to lock and tighten using included nylon screws.
Push venturi fitting into the inlet of the pump
Attach yellow silicone air tubing to the venturi and air silencer
Attach drain fitting (w/ plug) to the collection drain port.
Twist and lock the collection cup onto the skimmer neck.

Setup & Operation

Rinse the brand new skimmer with fresh water to rinse off any manufacturing residue. A spray bottle with RO/DI water works great.
Verify and/or adjust the water level in your sump. Skimmer must be submerged into 8 - 10" of water for proper operation.
Open the skimmer outlet pipe 100%.
Plugin the skimmer and allow foam level to stabalize.
Slowly close the outlet pipe until the foam level aligns with the white collar that holds the collection cup onto the skimmer body.
Allow the skimmer to break in for 5-7 days.
Adjust foam level as needed using the outlet pipe for efficient protein skimming.
Empty collection cup at least once per week. A dirty skimmer cup drastically reduces a protein skimmer's performance.

Tags: setup guide, protein skimmer, cones, aquamaxx

Robert Farnsworth - Author

Senior Website Manager

With over 25 years of experience keeping aquariums of all kinds, Robert has a detailed understanding of advanced aquarium techniques and theory. Working as a professional content creator in the saltwater aquarium industry for over 18 years, his perspective, thoughtfulness for the hobbyist, and a general understanding of the hobby, and industry that surrounds it, allows Robert to write and create digestible content that makes reefing fun and easy.