MArine MAgic Algae Scrubber, watch out

Mark_C · Dec 23, 2020

In researching scrubbers decided their $150 small model fit my system best.
Post placing the order, I realized it was routed to China.
After a month, I received a piece of equipment a bit lacking in standards.

Pretty much a disaster.

Have contacted to explain concerns, mailed photos and am awaiting response.
Will keep folks updated on how easy they are to deal with.

In the interim, would probably advise caution if you're thinking about one of these.

Rp8 · Dec 23, 2020

good to know, thanks

Turbo's Aquatics · Dec 26, 2020

Looks like they used 3/16" acrylic, they laser cut it (not a problem) but looks like they didn't prep the edges prior to welding (that is a problem) and packing was poor (esp when shipping overseas).

Thanks for sharing.

R33fDaddy · May 10, 2021

Any updates on this scrubber? I'm thinking about getting one. The price seems decent, small form factor and not a lot of light spill.

Also how are your Nitrates and Phosphates?

Mark_C · May 10, 2021

I contacted the manufacturer and, after a few mails, a new unit was sent. The second one arrived in good condition. I had set it up and was running it for 2-3 weeks and it seemed to be doing a decent job - no real algae build up in tank, definite buildup beginning on the screen.
Then, while moving a few things about, I bumped it, not extremely hard, just a standard moderate shoulder bump. Aaaaaannnnnnndd it was enough to cause a panel or two to come loose, which caused the unit to fall 3-4 feet to the floor, where it continued to break itself apart, now explosively.
So I cant mention anything on parameters.
It seems that if you receive a decent one, and have it in an out of the way place, say the side of a sump or such, it would probably work fine. It's just not that structurally sound.

R33fDaddy · May 10, 2021

Mark_C said:
I contacted the manufacturer and, after a few mails, a new unit was sent. The second one arrived in good condition. I had set it up and was running it for 2-3 weeks and it seemed to be doing a decent job - no real algae build up in tank, definite buildup beginning on the screen.
Then, while moving a few things about, I bumped it, not extremely hard, just a standard moderate shoulder bump. Aaaaaannnnnnndd it was enough to cause a panel or two to come loose, which caused the unit to fall 3-4 feet to the floor, where it continued to break itself apart, now explosively.
So I cant mention anything on parameters.
It seems that if you receive a decent one, and have it in an out of the way place, say the side of a sump or such, it would probably work fine. It's just not that structurally sound.

Sorry to hear that yours broke, I heard the guy builds these by hand. Did you replace it with another Algea Scrubber? I'm trying to decide which one to get.