Tubing Replacement GuideUpdated 2 months ago

The tubing inside the aF4 is a wear item that should be inspected and replaced on a regular schedule. This guide covers how to identify when tubing needs replacing and how to do it.

Replacement tubing is available at indaquatics.com.

When to replace your tubing

The primary wear point for the tubing is inside the pump housing, where it is in constant contact with the pump mechanism during every feed and clean cycle. Wear here is normal over time and is not a sign of a defect.

Signs that tubing needs replacing:

• Salt creep originating from underneath the pump
• Evidence of moisture or leakage from beneath the pump
• Condensation forming inside the clear pump head housing
• Reduced or inconsistent food flow during feeds
• Visible discoloration, cracking, or softening of the tubing

If you notice any of these signs, replace the tubing promptly regardless of how recently it was last changed.

Recommended replacement intervals:

What you'll need

• Phillips head screwdriver
• Hex wrench (for pump)
• Replacement tubing — available at indaquatics.com

Step 1 — Power off and prepare

1. Turn off the aF4 and unplug it from the power source, bring it to a suitable work space.
2. Remove the reservoir, food intake tubing, and temperature probe

Step 2 — Remove the housing

1. Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the four screws in the corners of the base plate
2. Carefully lift the housing straight up and set it aside
3. Take note of the tubing routing before you remove anything — a quick photo is helpful for reassembly reference

Step 3 — Remove the old tubing

1. Locate the tubing connections at the solenoid manifold — there are two vertical connections and one horizontal
2. Gently pull the tubing from each fitting, twisting slightly if needed to release. A small flathead screwdriver can help work the tubing loose if it is tight
3. Set the old tubing aside

Step 4 — Remove the pump face plate and pump tubing

1. Locate the pump inside the unit
2. Using the hex wrench, remove the four screws securing the pump face plate
3. Remove the face plate and pull the old tubing out of the pump assembly

Step 5 — Install new tubing

1. Insert the new tubing into the pump assembly, ensuring it is properly aligned and fully seated
2. Reinstall the pump face plate and secure it with the hex wrench — do not over-tighten
3. Route the new tubing to all connection points in the same configuration as the original, ensuring no kinks or sharp bends

Step 6 — Reassemble the aF4

1. Place the housing back onto the unit, checking that all tubing is correctly routed inside and not pinched
2. Secure the housing with the four Phillips head screws
3. Reinstall the reservoir, food intake tubing, and temperature probe

Step 7 — Test and flush

1. Plug in and power on the aF4
2. Fill the reservoir with clean water and run a test feed — confirm water flows correctly and check all connections for leaks
3. Run a full Auto-Clean cycle with a cleaning tablet to flush and sanitize the new tubing before loading food

Related articles

• Maintenance Schedule Overview — inspection and replacement intervals
• Auto-Clean & Deep Cleaning Guide — how to flush new tubing after installation
• Replacement Parts Guide — ordering replacement tubing and other parts

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