KingAlee
Well-Known Member
Partner Member 2026
Partner Member 2027
R2R Secret Santa 2024
R2R App User
Secret Santa
My Tank Thread
My Aquarium Showcase
- Joined
- Jul 11, 2024
- Messages
- 680
- Reaction score
- 486
- Location
- Mobile
- What state or country do you live in
- Alabama
I wanted to share a simple DIY fix for the IceCap AGS algae scrubber lights.
The reason I went this route is because I saw someone on Facebook having issues getting replacement lights from CoralVue (unit was purchased at the end of 2025). After searching around, I realized there really wasn’t much information on replacing these boards without buying direct replacements.
In my opinion, the stock LED boards are fairly simple and can be replicated with readily available full-spectrum grow boards online for around $25 each. If you’re comfortable with basic DIY work, this is a very straightforward fix.
Take your time here so you don’t crack the acrylic housing.
The replacement boards I used were slightly longer than the originals.
The acrylic on the scrubber isn’t very thick and is somewhat brittle, so it can be trimmed back. I used a multitool for a cleaner look, but you could carefully snip or file it back if needed.
Test fit before permanently mounting anything.
Before final mounting, I highly recommend doing a quick test power-on to verify polarity and function.
This is where you really want to take your time:
This step will greatly improve longevity in the high-humidity environment scrubbers operate in.
That’s it. It’s honestly a simple fix that seems intimidating at first but really isn’t bad if you’re comfortable with minor DIY work.
I’ll update this thread with growth results after some runtime so everyone can see how these boards perform long-term.
Hope this helps someone down the road!
The reason I went this route is because I saw someone on Facebook having issues getting replacement lights from CoralVue (unit was purchased at the end of 2025). After searching around, I realized there really wasn’t much information on replacing these boards without buying direct replacements.
In my opinion, the stock LED boards are fairly simple and can be replicated with readily available full-spectrum grow boards online for around $25 each. If you’re comfortable with basic DIY work, this is a very straightforward fix.
Materials List
- Multitool (not required, but very helpful)
- Full-spectrum LED light boards (Amazon – I’ll post the exact ones I used in the comments. There are tons of options; just verify measurements before ordering.)
- Electrical tape
- Silicone (aquarium-safe preferred)
- Double-sided tape (or reuse original screws)
- Optional: dielectric grease for corrosion prevention
Step-by-Step
1. Remove the Old Light Panels
- Remove the screws holding the boards in place.
- Cut the wires off the old boards.
- Pull the boards out from the side with the plug.
- You’ll notice silicone in the channels — this can be dug out fairly easily.
Take your time here so you don’t crack the acrylic housing.
2. Trim the Channels (If Needed)
The replacement boards I used were slightly longer than the originals.
The acrylic on the scrubber isn’t very thick and is somewhat brittle, so it can be trimmed back. I used a multitool for a cleaner look, but you could carefully snip or file it back if needed.
Test fit before permanently mounting anything.
3. Mount the New Boards
- You can reuse the original screws or use quality double-sided tape.
- Make sure spacing is even.
- You want good light spread across the screen — aim for a consistent “blanket” of light rather than hotspots.
Before final mounting, I highly recommend doing a quick test power-on to verify polarity and function.
4. Wire Protection & Sealing (Important)
This is where you really want to take your time:
- Wrap all exposed wiring thoroughly with electrical tape (at least 12” past the housing exit).
- Apply dielectric grease to plug connections and solder joints to help prevent corrosion.
- Reapply silicone in the channels to secure wires and add water resistance.
- Ensure drip loops are present in your power cords.
This step will greatly improve longevity in the high-humidity environment scrubbers operate in.
5. Done!
That’s it. It’s honestly a simple fix that seems intimidating at first but really isn’t bad if you’re comfortable with minor DIY work.
I’ll update this thread with growth results after some runtime so everyone can see how these boards perform long-term.
A Few Extra Notes:
- Double-check voltage and wattage compatibility before purchasing LED boards.
- Make sure the spectrum includes strong red (around 660nm), as that’s ideal for algae growth.
- Always unplug and fully dry the unit before working on it.
- This obviously voids any manufacturer warranty.
Hope this helps someone down the road!
