Placement and OrientationUpdated 2 months ago

Where and how you install your aF4 has a direct impact on its performance and longevity. This guide covers everything you need to know to choose the right location and set it up correctly.

Orientation

The aF4 must be kept upright at all times. Do not lay the unit on its side or mount it at an angle. The reservoir, cooling system, and pump are all designed to operate in a vertical upright position.

Location requirements

Distance from aquarium: Place the aF4 within 6 feet of where you want food to be dispensed. The output tubing cannot be extended beyond its included length — it can be shortened if needed, but not extended.

Power outlet: The unit must be within reach of a power outlet. Always use a drip loop on the power cable — route the cable down below the outlet level before plugging in so that any water travelling along the cable drips off before reaching the outlet.

Ventilation: The aF4 requires at least 6 inches of clearance around all vents and intakes. The fan actively draws in ambient air to cool the unit — restricted airflow is the most common cause of overheating. See our Overheating Guide for more detail on why this matters.

Salt mist — important: Using the aF4 in close proximity to salt mist can lead to premature fan failure. If installing inside or near a sump cabinet, ensure there is adequate ventilation and that the fan intake is not directly exposed to salt spray.

Common installation locations

On top of or beside the aquarium

The most straightforward installation. Place the aF4 on a flat surface on top of the aquarium lid, or on a shelf or stand directly beside the tank. Route the output tube over the rim or through a small gap in the lid into the water.

On a shelf or equipment stand

A shelf or stand adjacent to the aquarium works well and keeps the unit accessible for refilling and maintenance. Ensure the shelf has adequate ventilation around the unit.

Inside a sump cabinet

The aF4 can be installed inside a sump cabinet but requires careful consideration. Sump cabinets are prone to elevated humidity, salt mist, and restricted airflow — all of which can affect the unit over time.

If installing in a sump cabinet:

• Ensure active ventilation is in place — a small cabinet fan pulling fresh air in will significantly extend the life of the unit
• Position the fan intake away from any salt spray sources
• Do not install in a fully sealed cabinet

Feeding via return pump in sump

The aF4 can be set up to dispense food directly into the return pump section of your sump, allowing food to be distributed throughout the system via the return flow. The included tank mount can be adapted for this use, however our Pump Feed Adapter is specifically designed for this setup and will give you the best results.

Wall mounted

The aF4 can be wall mounted using appropriate hardware. Ensure the unit remains upright and that all ventilation clearance requirements are met.

Mounting the tubing

The included tank mount is compatible with euro-braced and rimless aquariums and allows you to secure the output tube in a consistent position above the waterline.

Rimmed aquariums require the Rimmed Aquarium Adapter, available at indaquatics.com. The standard tank mount is not compatible with rimmed tanks without this adapter.

Tubing tips:

• The output tubing can be shortened to suit your setup — cut carefully with clean scissors or a tube cutter
• The tubing cannot be extended beyond its included length
• Ensure the output tube end is positioned where you want food delivered, we recommend offsetting the black intake and gray output tubing
• We have taken considerable steps to prevent siphoning however it is always best practice to place the tubing at the minimum depth necessary

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