How the Self-Cleaning System WorksUpdated 2 months ago

The aF4 features a patented self-cleaning system that automatically cleans the intake, output tubing, solenoid, and pump between every single feed cycle. This is one of the aF4's most important features — and understanding how it works will help you get the best performance and longest life from your unit.

The automatic between-feed clean

Every time the aF4 completes a feed cycle, it immediately runs a self-cleaning sequence before returning to standby. This cycle flushes the intake, output tubing, solenoid, and pump — clearing any remaining food residue from the entire system after every feed.

Why this matters:Frozen fish food is highly perishable. Any food left inside warm tubing or the solenoid assembly after a feed would begin to degrade quickly, creating a source of bacterial contamination that could be introduced into your aquarium on the next feed. The automatic clean cycle eliminates this risk by clearing the system after every feed, every time — without any action required from you.

This process also protects the solenoid itself from buildup that could cause blockages or premature failure over time.

The Auto-Clean function

In addition to the automatic between-feed clean, the aF4 has a manual Auto-Clean function designed to perform a more thorough flush of the internal system. This should be used periodically as part of your regular maintenance routine.

When to use Auto-Clean:

• Ideally between every reservoir refill
• Any time you notice reduced food output or flow
• Before storing the unit for an extended period
• As part of a deep clean

How to activate Auto-Clean:Press and hold the Auto-Clean button on the unit for 15 seconds. The Auto-Clean LED will illuminate while the cycle is running and turn off when it is complete. A series of beeps confirms the cycle has finished.

TIP: You can run the auto-clean function while connected to the aquarium as long as you do not use any cleaning solution or tablets. 

Deep cleaning with a cleaning tablet

For a thorough deep clean of the entire internal system, use the Auto-Clean function in conjunction with an inD Aquatics cleaning tablet. The tablets are non-toxic, safe for aquatic environments, and designed to break down any buildup inside the unit and sanitize the system.

For full deep cleaning instructions see our Deep Cleaning Guide.

Replacement cleaning tablets are available at indaquatics.com.

What the self-cleaning system does not replace

The automatic self-cleaning system significantly reduces the need for manual cleaning, but it does not replace periodic maintenance entirely. Over time, some buildup can still occur — particularly if the unit has been used with certain food types or if maintenance cycles have been missed.

We recommend a full deep clean at regular intervals to keep the aF4 operating at peak performance. See our Maintenance Schedule Overview for guidance on how often to clean based on your usage.

Related articles

• Deep Cleaning Guide — full instructions for a thorough clean using a cleaning tablet
• Maintenance Schedule Overview — how often to clean and maintain your aF4
• Food Not Dispensing Guide — if you suspect a blockage despite regular cleaning

Questions about cleaning? Submit a support ticket and our team will help.