Exo Terra Cascade User Manual [en, es, fr]

Cascade

Operating instructions

Mode d’emploi

Instrucciones de Uso

PT3590

INDEX

ENGLISH 3

FRANÇAIS 9

ESPAÑOL 16

2

Cascade

PT3590

Cascade

Operating
instructions

Thank you for purchasing the Exo Terra® Cascade High Performance
Pump HP180. Please read this operation manual carefully before
use and operate according to the instructions provided for maximum
safety and performance. We recommend that you keep this manual
handy for future reference.

• Create your own waterfall, up to a height
of 70”(180cm)

• Great to irrigate terrarium background to
stimulate plant growth

• Contributes to the environment’s
humidity level

• For use in terrariums, vivariums, aquariums
and paludariums

• 3-stage filtration: biological, chemical
and mechanical

Introduction

The Exo Terra® Cascade is a high performance submersible pump
with filter, specifically designed to create waterfalls or cascading
streams up to a maximum height of 70” (180cm). The Exo Terra®
Cascade enables you to implement your own creative ideas and
designs in the construction of a waterfall or water course in your
terrarium. The extreme pump height of 70”or 180cm allows you
to create a large single step waterfall flowing from the top of
your terrarium in to a water reservoir below, or a multiple step
cascade resembling a series of mini waterfalls that descend in to a
meandering stream at the bottom of the terrarium. You can also use
the Cascade High Performance Pump to pump water to the top of the
terrarium to constantly irrigate the terrarium background, creating a
perfect environment for all kinds of lichen and mosses, ferns, vines,
bromeliads, orchids and epiphytic plants. An eye-pleasing waterfall
or cascading creek in your terrarium is not only esthetic and relaxing
for the observer, it also contributes to the environment’s overall
humidity level. Many reptiles and amphibians enjoy the humid
microclimate in the direct vicinity of the cascade or stream to soak
up moisture. The permanently cascading flow of fresh, aerated water
stimulates the natural drinking behavior of reptiles and amphibians.

To create a waterfall or cascading stream, or to irrigate the terrarium
background, you have the option of using the entire waterproof
bottom of the terrarium as a sump in combination with the Exo
Terra® BioDrain system, or use the water proof bottom as an

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open water reservoir converting the terrarium in to a paludarium
or aqua-terrarium. You can also create a stand-alone waterfall
or cascade which recirculates the water from a water reservoir
or pond embedded in the terrariums substrate layer. The extra
large filter capacity and the 3-stage filtration system ensure an
optimal water filtration. Three separate filter cartridges guarantee
mechanical, chemical and biological filtration while allowing
alternate replacement for continuous biological filter activity. The Exo
Terra® Cascade’s low voltage pump ensures safety when used in a
wet environment.

Read instructions thoroughly prior to installation and operation.

INSTRUCTIONS PERTAINING TO A RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK,
OR INJURY TO PERSONS

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING: To guard against injury, basic safety precautions
should be observed when handling the Exo Terra® Cascade High
Performance Pump HP180, including the following:

WARNING: This appliance may be supplied with a polarized plug.
(one blade is wider than the other). As a safety feature, this plug will
fit in a polarized socket only one way. If the plug does not fit fully in
the socket, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified
electrician. Never use with an extension cord unless plug can be fully
inserted. Do not attempt to defeat this safety feature.

Contains a cULus listed AC adaptor.

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1. READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

and all important notices on the appliance before using. Failure
to do so may result in an unsafe condition or damage to the unit.

2. DANGER - To avoid possible electric shock, special care should

be taken since water is employed in the use of this equipment.
Do not attempt repairs yourself; return the appliance to an
authorized service facility for service or discard the appliance.
NOTE: the impeller and impeller-well must be cleaned as part
of regular maintenance.

A. For INDOOR HOUSEHOLD USE ONLY, NOT for commercial use.

For use with FRESHWATER only.

B. Do not operate any appliance if it has a damaged cord or plug,

or if it is malfunctioning or if it is dropped or damaged in any
manner. The power cord of this appliance cannot be replaced;
if the cord is damaged, the appliance should be discarded.
Never cut the cord.

C. To avoid the possibility of the

appliance plug or electrical socket
getting wet, position the unit to one
side of a wall mounted socket to
prevent water from dripping onto the
socket or plug. A “drip-loop” should be
arranged. The “driploop” is that part of
the cord below the level of the socket,
or the connector if an extension
cord is used, to prevent water from
traveling along the cord and coming
into contact with the socket. If the plug

or socket does get wet, DO NOT unplug the cord. Disconnect the
fuse or circuit breaker that supplies power to the appliance. Then
unplug and examine for the presence of water in the socket.

3. This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including
children) with reduced physical sensory or mental capabilities, or
lack of experience or knowledge, unless a person responsible for
their safety has given them supervision or instruction concerning
use of the appliance. Children should be supervised to ensure
that they do not play with the appliance.

4. Always unplug an appliance from a socket when not in use,
before putting on or taking off parts, and before cleaning. Never
yank cord to pull plug from socket. Grasp the plug and pull
to disconnect.

5. To avoid injury do not contact moving parts or hot parts such as
heaters, impellers, lamp bulbs and the like.

6. Do not use this appliance for other than its intended use (i.e. do
not use in swimming pools, garden ponds, bathrooms or any
situations where people are immersed). The use of attachments
not recommended or sold by the manufacturer of the appliance
may cause an unsafe condition.

7. Do not install or store the appliance where it will be exposed to
the weather or to temperatures below freezing.

8. Make sure an appliance is securely installed before operating it.

9. Read and observe all the important notices on the appliance.

10. If an extension cord is necessary, a cord with a proper rating

should be used. A cord rated for less amperes or watts than the
appliance rating may overheat. Care should be taken to arrange
the cord so that it will not be tripped over or pulled.

11. The pump must be immersed in water (maximum water
temperature 35°C / 95°F). The pump must not run dry.

12. It is suggested that this appliance and any other submersed
appliance be equipped with a leakage circuit breaker.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

Only close adherence to these installation, electrical and
maintenance guidelines will ensure the safe and efficient use of
this appliance.

CAUTION

1. The Exo Terra® Cascade High Performance Pump is for indoor,

household use only, and for use with water not exceeding
35°C / 95°F. This pump with filter is not recommended or designed
for use with corrosive or flammable compounds or liquids with
different properties other than water. The motor is hermetically
sealed to ensure safety and a long lasting life with all live
electrical parts immersed in a protective casing to prevent total
insulation against water damage and electrical shock. Since it
does not employ older technologies requiring oil cooling, it can
never leak or contaminate the area with coolant.

2. Be sure that the voltage of the mains supply corresponds to the

voltage shown on the rating label of the unit.

3. Before connecting to the mains supply ensure that the cord and

the unit are undamaged.

Installation

The Cascade high performance pump can be installed either
vertically or horizontally depending upon the preferred usage
application as long as the pump is completely immersed (example:
in terrariums, because of low water levels, the filter pump would

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be placed horizontally or flat on the bottom; in aqua-terrariums,
because of higher water levels, the filter pump could be placed
horizontally or vertically). If in doubt, consult with your local Exo

®

Terra

dealer or pet retailer for more information.

Install the filter pump in the desired location, ensuring that the
water flow output (located on the top of the pump) is below the
water surface. Press firmly to ensure the suction cups are holding it
securely in place. Ensure that the water does not contain particulate
matter that may enter the filter pump and damage the impeller or
block its shaft.

The filter pump is equipped with a 90° and 180° spout to connect
tubing to create waterfalls up to a height of 180 cm. Also included:
a 90° swivel spout which directs the water flow output and allows
changes to the flow pattern in the terrarium.

Connect the power cord to the electrical outlet. If the unit does not
start immediately, verify that the water level is sufficient to immerse
the filter pump’s water flow outlet during operation. If the problem
persists, see the “Trouble-shooting” and “Maintenance” sections of
this manual for further information.

WATER TREATMENT

The water should be treated with Exo Terra® Aquatize to remove
chlorine and heavy metals. Adding Exo Terra® Biotize will help to
keep the water cleaner longer, as well as promoting necessary
beneficial bacteria and reducing odors associated with
decaying waste.

Maintenance

To avoid injury, always unplug all appliances from the outlet when

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not in use; before putting on or taking off parts; and before cleaning.
The motor is hermetically sealed, thereby requiring no lubrication
or maintenance.

The impeller cavity, although it is self cleaning, requires regular
maintenance to remove dirt, slime and debris build-up to ensure
smooth running and to extend the life of the pump. The impeller and
impeller well (where the impeller is located) should be cleaned at
least once a month, more often if necessary.

Cleaning the impeller:

1. Unplug the pump and remove it from the installation.

2. Separate the filter case from the motor housing

3. Use a screw driver to remove the impeller cover.

4. Remove the plastic ring on top of the impeller fan.

5. Grasp the blades of the impeller fan to pull out the impeller

6. Thoroughly clean the impeller and the impeller well to remove
slime, dirt or debris.

7. Place the impeller back into the impeller well. Replace the plastic
ring and the impeller cover, then re-attach the filter case to the
motor housing.

Note: If you are using well water, or if you have hard water, run the
filter for a few minutes in a 50/50 solution of water and vinegar to
help remove calcium deposit buildup before replacing the filter in
the installation.

CAUTION: Do not use detergents or other chemical cleaners. The
power cord cannot be replaced, discard the appliance if damaged.

FILTER MEDIA: The Exo Terra® Cascade High Performance Pump

HP180 provides 3-stage filtration. The large foam captures and
removes large particulate matter and debris and enhances biological
filtration, the smaller foam captures smaller, finer particulate matter;
and the carbon cartridge helps improve water clarity, color
and smell.

The foam pads will gradually fill with trapped debris and require
rinsing. Re-using the foam can help protect the bacterial colonies
and provide continual biological filtration. Foam pads should be
rinsed at least once a month, more often if necessary.
It is not recommended to rinse the foam directly in tap or well water,
as the water contains chemicals that make it unsafe to reptiles and
amphibians. As a precaution, the foam should always be rinsed
in de-chlorinated water. To do this, fill a container with water and
then treat the water with a water conditioner such as Exo Terra®
Aquatize to neutralize the chemicals. Once the water has been
de-chlorinated, you can then rinse the foam. (note: this procedure is
also recommended when replacing with new foam).

Filter media (foam pads, carbon cartridge) should be replaced every
6-8 weeks to ensure proper functioning of the filter, more often if
necessary. Never rinse or replace all filter media at the same time,
alternate rinsing/replacement of filter media.

Replacement Filter Foam and Carbon cartridges can be purchased
from your local Exo Terra® dealer or pet retailer.

Troubleshooting:

CAUTION: The pump must not be allowed to run dry. If the pump

fails to operate, check the following:

No Flow:

• Check if the power supply is on. Check the circuit breaker or try
another outlet to ensure the pump is getting electrical power.
Note: always disconnect the pump from electrical supply
before handling.

• If the power supply is working but the pump is not, then it may
be clogged by debris. Disconnect the pump, check the output
spout to ensure it is not clogged, then follow the maintenance
procedures to clean the impeller.

• If the pump is working but there is no flow, remove filter basket
and the tubing from the pump house and let the pump run until
the flow is up to standard again. Replace the filter basket and
check if the flow is still up to standard. If not, repeat the first step.
Connect the tubing to the pump.

Low Flow:

• Check the pump’s output spout to ensure it is not clogged by
debris. Then follow the maintenance procedures to clean impeller.

• When using tubing, check tubing for sharp bends or blockage.

• If the pump is working but there is only a low flow, remove filter
basket and the tubing from the pump house and let the pump run
until the strength of the flow is up to standard again. Replace the
filter basket and check if the flow is still up to standard. If not,
repeat the first step. Connect the tubing to the pump.

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