N-Clear Nano Manual
Introduction
The N-Clear Nano Fleece Roller Filter is designed for aquarium enthusiasts who need an efficient, low-maintenance solution to remove particulate matter and maintain pristine water conditions. Ideal for both freshwater and marine aquariums, this filter effectively eliminates suspended solids and organic waste, preventing water quality degradation.
Key Features
- Automatic Roller Filtration: high-density fleece advances automatically when clogged, keeping mechanical filtration uninterrupted.
- Highest Compatibility in the Industry: fits nano all-in-one aquariums including IM, Waterbox, UNS, HelloReef, Aquatop, and more; highly reusable.
- Supports Dual Mode: run two filters from a single controller for dual-chamber setups or high bioload systems.
- Freshwater and Saltwater Ready: engineered for long-term reliability in both freshwater and marine environments.
- FDA Food-Grade Fleece Rolls: industry-first rolls made from FDA food-grade material and tested to comply with 21 CFR 177.1630.
How It Works
- Water Intake: Flow from the aquarium enters the roll filter and is directed across the fleece.
- Filtration: Suspended debris is captured by the fleece while clean water exits the chamber.
- Sensor Detection: As debris accumulates, flow slows and the water level rises until the optical sensor is triggered.
- Automatic Advancement: The motor advances a fresh section of fleece, restoring flow and lowering the water level.
- Continuous Operation: The cycle repeats, providing uninterrupted mechanical filtration.
Installation
Complete the steps in order. Do not connect power until the assembled filter is seated in the chamber, the controller is dry, and every plug is fully inserted.
Main Unit Components
Exploded View
Step-by-Step Installation
-
Install the Sensor: Slide the optical sensor into the sensor bracket on the inner frame until it is fully seated. Route the cable upward so it cannot rub against the fleece or shafts.
Seat the sensor fully and keep the sensing face clean and unobstructed. -
Install the Water Barrier: Fit the water barrier into the lower frame slots. Start with the longest pre-installed barrier unless the matching adapter example specifies the 2.35 in (6 cm) barrier.
The barrier should sit flush and direct chamber flow through the fleece. -
Align the Motor and Take-Up Shaft: Rotate the motor coupling until its D-shaped opening matches the D-shaped take-up shaft. Push the parts straight together; do not force them while misaligned.
Correct D-shape alignment prevents binding and incomplete seating. -
Mount the Motor: Seat the motor assembly on the upper frame mount and install the retaining hardware. Confirm the motor is stable and the shaft turns freely.
Keep the motor and all electrical connectors above the operating waterline. -
Load the Fleece Roll: Insert the feed shaft through the clean fleece roll and place the shaft into the upper frame supports. The fleece should feed smoothly toward the lower path without twisting.
Use only original N-Clear Nano fleece rolls. -
Thread and Secure the Fleece: Follow the illustrated path through the frame, then attach the adhesive end squarely to the take-up shaft. Remove all slack before operation.
The fleece must lie flat across the flow path with no fold, twist, or trapped edge. -
Insert the Inner Frame: Lower the fully assembled inner frame into the outer case. Confirm the barrier, sensor cable, and fleece remain in position and that the frame seats completely.
Before placing the filter in the aquarium, verify that the fleece can move and the lower path is free of debris.
Dual Mode Setup (Optional)
The N-Clear Nano Filter supports Dual Mode, allowing two filters to operate from one controller, one power adapter, and one sensor. Both motors advance together when the sensor on the main filter is triggered.
Connect the splitter cable to the controller's motor port, then connect one filter motor to each splitter output. Connect the sensor to the main filter as shown.
Extension Unit Components
Adapter Installation
Install the adapter after assembling the filter and before tuning the sensor. Innovative Marine installations generally do not require an adapter; most other AIO tanks require the N-Fit model made for that chamber.
Choose the Correct Water Barrier
Example 1 — S8080
- Seat the adapter: Place S8080 squarely on the tank's existing support bumps or blocks and confirm it is level.
- Match the barrier: The water barrier must meet the edge of the S8080 opening with no bypass gap. Most S8080 installations use the 2.35 in (6 cm) barrier.
- Install the filter: Lower the filter fully into the adapter and confirm all incoming water is directed through the fleece.
Example 2 — S8075
For AquaTop tanks, use the S8075 adapter and the chamber support point shown in red.
- Position S8075: Orient the adapter as shown and rest it at the red support bump.
- Match the barrier: Choose the water barrier whose top edge matches the S8075 opening.
- Install the filter: Lower the filter fully, then confirm the adapter sits level and has no bypass gap.
Example 3 — S8085 / ReefCasa
- Start with the base: Use the bottom S8085 layer by itself for most ReefCasa tanks.
- Add height only if needed: Install the middle riser when the adapter must sit higher, including chamber generations that need extra height.
- Seal side gaps only if needed: Add the top piece when a test fit leaves an open gap on the left or right side.
- Match the barrier: Test-fit the selected stack, then choose the water barrier whose top edge matches the adapter opening.
- Install the filter: Lower the filter fully and confirm the assembled adapter is level, stable, and sealed against bypass.
Example 4 — S8080H / Hang-On
- Orient the arms: Point both hanging arms toward the chamber wall.
- Hang the adapter: Lower S8080H until both arms are fully seated and the adapter hangs level.
- Install the filter: Lower the filter into the adapter opening.
- Match the barrier: Choose a water barrier whose top edge matches the adapter opening while remaining below the outlet weir.
- Confirm the seal: Verify the adapter is stable and water cannot bypass around the fleece chamber.
Request an Adapter for Other Tanks
If your tank is not currently supported, we are always open to adding new adapters. Reach out to our support team, and we will evaluate the possibility of onboarding a new model within 1-3 weeks.
To process your request quickly, please provide the details below.
- Support points: Note any brackets or bumps that can support a flat adapter, such as the two black blocks glued to the sides of the tank.
-
Measurements: Provide the dimensions shown above. Millimeters (mm) are preferred.
- L1: Inner width of the filter chamber opening.
- L2: Inner length of the filter chamber opening.
- L3: Depth from the top of the chamber baffle to the bottom edge of the weir.
- L4: Depth from the top of the tank rim to the top of the bracket or bump (if any).
- L5: Depth from the top of the chamber split-baffle rim to the top of the bracket or bump (if any).
- L6: Depth from the top of the tank rim to the top of the back-chamber baffle.
- L7: Depth from the top of the tank rim to the top of the split-chamber baffle.
- Photo: Share a clear picture under white light with the flow turned off so we can see the internal structure of your filter chamber.
Send this information to support@naturedimensions.com. We will respond within 24 hours.
Controller Version Overview
The controller provides real-time feedback on filter status. V2 is the current controller supplied with new units; V1 remains documented for earlier units still in service.
Version Check
- Press the MODE button once and watch the MODE LED.
- V2: the MODE LED cycles through off, blinking green, and solid green.
- V1: the MODE LED toggles between off and blinking green only.
Tip: If the MODE LED can stay solid green, you have a V2 controller.
V1 Controller Guide
Buttons & Manual Controls
| MODE | Cycles between Normal and High-Efficiency Modes. Press until the MODE LED shows the state you want. |
|---|---|
| MANUAL | Press and hold to advance the fleece motor. Use after maintenance to tighten the roll or to confirm motor direction. |
| PAUSE |
|
V1 Operating Modes
| Normal Mode |
MODE LED: Off Motor advances shortly after rising water submerges the sensor and stops as soon as the level drops. Best for: Everyday use with steady bioload and minimal water-level swing. |
|---|---|
| High-Efficiency Mode |
MODE LED: Green (blinking) Motor advances for roughly seven seconds each time the sensor is submerged. Best for: Rapidly exporting saturated fleece when nutrient control matters more than level stability. |
V1 LED Indicators
| LED | State | Meaning / Action |
|---|---|---|
| POWER | On | Controller has power and is ready. |
| Off | No input power detected; verify the adapter connection. | |
| MODE | Off | Meaning: Normal Mode; the optical sensor immediately controls each advance. |
| Blinking |
Meaning: High-Efficiency Mode active. Triggered by: Press MODE once. Reset: Press MODE again to return to Normal. |
|
| ALARM | Off | System operating normally. |
| Blinking |
Meaning: Feeding pause. Triggered by: Press PAUSE once. Reset: Auto-resumes after 30 minutes or press PAUSE twice. |
|
| Solid |
Meaning: Manual stop / maintenance pause. Triggered by: Press PAUSE twice. Reset: Press PAUSE once to resume immediately. |
|
| Solid and beeping |
Meaning: Over-advancing alarm; the sensor stayed submerged too long. Triggered by: Improper water level or sensor placement. Reset: Adjust water level/sensor height, then press PAUSE once. |
Additional Alerts
Alternating MODE and ALARM LEDs paired with rapid beeps indicate an electrical issue. Disconnect power and contact support.
Intermittent beeps with a blinking ALARM LED signal a clogged or empty roll. Replace the fleece and press PAUSE once.
If the controller remains dark, confirm the adapter connection or request a replacement from support.
V2 Controller Guide
The V2 controller is the current controller for new N-Clear units. It uses Default, Long Delay, and Timer Modes.
Buttons & Manual Controls
| MODE | Cycles through Default, Long Delay, and Timer Modes. Watch the MODE LED for off → blink → solid. |
|---|---|
| MANUAL | Press and hold to advance the fleece motor. Use after maintenance to tighten the roll or check motor direction. |
| PAUSE |
|
V2 Operating Modes
| Default Mode |
MODE LED: Off Motor advances after the sensor stays submerged for about 30 seconds, then stops once it re-enters air. Best for: Normal daily use when you prefer sensor-driven advances. |
|---|---|
| Long Delay Mode |
MODE LED: Green (blinking) Motor advances only after the sensor stays submerged for roughly 11 minutes, ignoring short pump-off events. Best for: Systems where feeding pauses or maintenance often stop the return pump. |
| Timer Mode |
MODE LED: Green (solid) Timer Mode is experimental and runs the motor for 7.5 seconds every 12 hours regardless of sensor input. The actual amount of fleece advanced in each run depends on how much of the roll has already been used. Important disclaimer: Timer Mode is an experimental feature provided for free. The actual amount of fleece advanced varies as the roll is used, and stability and performance are not guaranteed. This mode should only be used when sensor-based triggering is not possible, or when you have a special control requirement. Best for: Rare situations where the sensor cannot reliably trigger an advance. Recommendation: Sensor-triggered Default or Long Delay Modes remain the most efficient options. Only use Timer Mode when sensor triggering is not possible. |
V2 LED Indicators
| LED | State | Meaning / Action |
|---|---|---|
| POWER | On | Controller has power and is ready. |
| Off | No input power detected; verify the adapter connection. | |
| MODE | Off | Meaning: Default Mode; sensor triggers a motor advance after ~30 seconds submerged. |
| Blinking |
Meaning: Long Delay Mode active. Triggered by: Press MODE once from Default. Reset: Press MODE again to return to Default. |
|
| Solid |
Meaning: Timer Mode is running an experimental 12-hour advance schedule, and the actual fleece length moved will vary as the roll wears down. Triggered by: Press MODE twice from Default. Reset: Press MODE again to cycle back to Default. Prefer Default or Long Delay whenever sensor triggering is possible. |
|
| ALARM | Off | System operating normally. |
| Blinking |
Meaning: Feeding pause. Triggered by: Press PAUSE once. Reset: Auto-resumes after 30 minutes or press PAUSE twice. |
|
| Solid |
Meaning: 12-hour maintenance pause. Triggered by: Press PAUSE twice. Reset: Auto-resumes after 12 hours or press PAUSE once to resume immediately. |
|
| Solid and beeping |
Meaning: Over-advancing alarm; the sensor stayed submerged too long. Triggered by: Improper water level or sensor placement. Reset: Adjust water level/sensor height, then press PAUSE once. Auto-resumes after 12 hours. |
Additional Alerts
Alternating MODE and ALARM LEDs paired with rapid beeps indicate an electrical issue. Disconnect power and contact support.
Intermittent beeps with a blinking ALARM LED signal a clogged or empty roll. Replace the fleece and press PAUSE once.
If the controller does not power on, confirm the adapter connection or request a replacement from support.
Adjusting Water Level and Sensor Position
The stable operation of the filter depends on several key factors. When using it for the first time, follow each step carefully and be patient with adjustments.
Set the Aquarium Water Level
Set the initial water level inside the filter to about one inch below the emergency overflow (refer to the video above for a visual guide). Since evaporation can cause water levels in the sump and display to drop, it is recommended to use an ATO system to maintain consistent water levels and stable operation.
Choose the Water Barrier
Most setups perform best with the longest pre-installed water barrier. For hang-on installations, switch to a shorter barrier so that its top edge sits just below the outlet weir. This keeps the chamber sealed and directs all water through the fleece for proper filtration.
Adjust the Sensor Height
- Start high: Set the sensor to its highest position.
- Wait for the fleece to get dirty enough: Run the filter for about 12 hours, or up to 24 hours for tanks with a light bioload, until the fleece darkens and the internal water level rises significantly.
- Lower the sensor gradually: Lower the sensor a little at a time until the sensor tip just touches the water.
- Confirm the trigger: Wait up to 40 seconds. The motor should trigger, the fleece should advance, and the water level inside the filter should drop as clean fleece replaces the dirty clogged fleece.
- Keep that height: The point where the sensor first triggers properly is the optimal sensor height.
Troubleshoot Steps
Use the guides below to resolve the most common issues.
Problem 1: Filter never advances
- Confirm pump flow is between 100 and 300 GPH.
- Make sure there is no gap between the filter inlet and the aquarium outlet.
- Lower the sensor a little at a time until the fleece advances.
- Check the aquarium water level and top off if needed.
- Inspect and clean the sensor.
Problem 2: Rolls too frequently or triggers alarms
Work through these steps in order:
- Check the installation: Confirm the adapter is installed correctly and fully seated so all flow passes through the fleece.
- Check the mode: Start with Default Mode (MODE LED off). Use Timer Mode only when sensor-based triggering is not possible.
- Verify connections: Reconnect the sensor, motor, and controller plugs. Ensure connections are secure.
- Reset the sensor height: Move the sensor to the highest position.
- Set initial water level: Remove some water until the level inside the filter is about 1/2 inch below the sensor tip. This leaves room for the water level to rise and fall as the fleece clogs and advances.
-
Run for 24 hours, then assess:
-
Case 1: Fleece is dark/dirty and the filter never rolled. Lower the sensor gradually until it just touches the water and triggers a roll. The water level should drop immediately—leave the sensor there. This is the optimal sensor position
All set! -
Case 2: The filter rolled and the used fleece is dirty (yellow to brown). Keep the sensor at the top; that is the optimal sensor position.
All set! -
Case 3: The filter rolled but the fleece is nearly clean or almost used up. Repeat these steps carefully. If it still over-rolls, contact support.
!Needs attention
-
Case 1: Fleece is dark/dirty and the filter never rolled. Lower the sensor gradually until it just touches the water and triggers a roll. The water level should drop immediately—leave the sensor there. This is the optimal sensor position
-
Contact support if needed:
- Prepare clear photos or short videos of your setup.
- Describe the issue and list the troubleshooting steps you completed.
- Contact us via one of the methods below:
- Email: support@naturedimensions.com
- IG chat: @nature_dimensions
- FB chat: @NatureDimensionsSupport
Problem 3: Motor or controller loses power, flickers, or shuts off
Use this check if the controller lights dim, flicker, restart, or shut off when you press MANUAL or when the motor is connected.
- Stop running the motor repeatedly: Disconnect power before inspecting plugs or moving the filter.
- Reseat and dry the connections: Confirm the sensor, motor, controller, and power adapter plugs are fully seated. Keep the controller and power adapter dry.
- Check the motor load: If the controller stays on with the motor unplugged but flickers or shuts off when the motor is connected or manually advanced, the motor may have a short. This can happen if water gets into the motor. Do not keep testing under power; contact support with a short video of the behavior.
- Check the controller and power path: If the controller stays dark even with the motor unplugged, check the outlet, power adapter, and barrel connector. If it still does not power on, contact support for controller or power diagnosis.
FAQ
How does the automatic roller work?
The N-Clear Nano Filter uses an optical water-level sensor to detect when the fleece becomes clogged. As debris restricts flow, water rises inside the chamber until it reaches the sensor. The controller then advances fresh fleece, restoring flow and water clarity.
What should I check during installation?
Before powering the filter, make sure the adapter is fully seated, the correct water barrier is installed, and water is entering the fleece chamber instead of bypassing around the adapter. With clean fleece, the normal running water level inside the filter should sit below the sensor, about 1/2 inch below the sensor tip.
- Start with the longest water barrier; switch to a shorter one for hang-on installs.
- Revisit the Water Level & Sensor Position section whenever you change pumps or flow.
Which aquariums are compatible?
The filter fits most nano all-in-one systems, including Innovative Marine, Waterbox, UNS, HelloReef, Aquatop, and other tanks supported by our N-Fit adapters. If your aquarium is not listed, reach out to support@naturedimensions.com with your tank model or chamber measurements/photos.
How should the sensor behave?
- Default Mode: Advances after the sensor stays submerged for about 30 seconds.
- Long Delay Mode: Advances after the sensor stays submerged for roughly 11 minutes.
- Timer Mode: Advances on a fixed schedule and should only be used when sensor-based triggering is not possible.
After setup, the sensor should normally stay in one position. Raise it if the filter advances while the fleece still looks clean. Lower it only if dirty fleece has raised the water level but the filter is not advancing.
How often will the fleece advance?
Roll frequency varies by bioload, flow rate, and sensor height. It can advance every few hours or stretch beyond ten hours between cycles. Fleece rolls typically last 3-6 weeks. On a normal Nano AIO setup, using almost a full roll in less than one week is not normal, especially if the used fleece still looks clean. Recheck water level, filter height, adapter seating, water barrier choice, and sensor position before replacing parts.
Why does my ATO react differently?
Expect slight water-level shifts between the display and rear chambers. Dirty fleece keeps more water in the display, while clean fleece lets more flow into the rear section. This behavior usually stabilizes within a day or two; for the most stable ATO response, use Default Mode.
What comes with each filter?
Each N-Clear main filter includes the filter body, controller, optical sensor, motor, power adapter, and 1 starter fleece roll. Adapter parts depend on the model or kit selected. A Main + Extension kit includes one starter roll per filter, but the extension shares the main controller and sensor; it does not include a separate controller, sensor, or power adapter. Sensor, motor, and power adapter cables are each about 150 cm / 60 in.
How does Main + Extension work?
The extension connects to the main controller. It does not include its own controller, sensor, or power adapter. Both motors advance together when the main sensor triggers.
How far can the controller be from the filter?
Sensor, motor, and power adapter cables are each about 150 cm / 60 in. Keep the controller within reach of both the sensor and motor connectors. The practical filter-to-outlet reach is about 300 cm / 120 in total: about 150 cm / 60 in from the filter to the controller, plus about 150 cm / 60 in from the controller to the power outlet. The Main + Extension splitter cable is for running two motor heads; it does not meaningfully extend the controller-to-filter distance.
Can I connect N-Clear to Hydros, Apex, or a 0-10V port?
N-Clear is designed to run through the included controller and sensor. Do not wire the motor directly to Hydros, Apex, or similar 0-10V control outputs. Those ports are usually low-current control signals, while the N-Clear motor needs 12 V power with enough startup current when it rolls. If you need scheduled operation, use the controller's Timer Mode only when sensor-based triggering is not possible.
What if the controller lights flicker or shut off when the motor runs?
Disconnect power and stop repeated testing. Reseat the plugs and make sure the controller and power adapter are dry. If the controller works until the motor is connected or MANUAL is pressed, the motor may have a short and should be diagnosed by support. If the controller stays dark even with the motor unplugged, check the outlet, power adapter, and barrel connector before contacting support.
What should I check if the filter is not rolling?
Confirm the adapter is fully seated and water is passing through the fleece. If the fleece is dirty and the water level has risen, lower the sensor one small step at a time until it triggers. If pressing Manual does not move the dirty roll, check the lower roll path for sand, shell, small rock, or other debris.
Safety Instructions
Read all instructions carefully before operating the N-Clear Nano Fleece Roller Filter. The device is for indoor use only, and the controller must not be exposed to water.
Important Safety Precautions
- Do not use the device if the power cord, plug, or any component is damaged.
- This product is suitable for users aged 14 and older, or younger users with supervision and guidance.
- Keep the device out of reach of unsupervised children.
- Only use the supplied power adapter.
- Disconnect power before installation, removal, or cleaning.
- Avoid pulling on the power cord when unplugging; grip the plug instead.
Specifications
| Height (excluding fleece) | 12.2 inches |
| Footprint (L × W) | 2.56" × 2.56" |
| Minimum Filter Chamber Depth | 6.7 inches |
| Filter Fleece Width | 1.61 inches |
| Maximum Filter Fleece Length | 82 feet |
| Fleece Roll Duration | Typically 3-6 weeks, depending on tank size, bioload, flow, and sensor height |
| Cable Lengths | Sensor, motor, and power adapter cables are each about 150 cm / 60 in |
| Operating Voltage | 12V DC |
| Maximum Flow Rate | 300 GPH per filter |
| Recommended Tank Size | 5–30 gallons per filter |
Warranty
Product Warranty & Lifetime Support
Standard Warranty Coverage
We provide a one-year warranty covering the following N-Clear Nano components. Units purchased directly from Nature Dimensions receive an additional 6-month warranty extension, for 18 months of total coverage. Purchases through other retailers receive the standard 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.
- Feed shaft
- Take-up shaft
- Inner frame
- Outer case
- Take-up motor
- Sensor
- Sensor bracket
- Controller
- Power adapter
Exclusions
The warranty does not cover damage resulting from:
- Misuse, abuse, improper installation, or unauthorized modifications
- Use of non-original or incompatible filter fleece rolls or accessories
- Natural wear and tear or accidental damage
- Repairs or servicing performed by anyone other than authorized service personnel
How to File a Warranty Claim
Email support@naturedimensions.com with:
- Proof of purchase (order confirmation or invoice)
- A clear description of the issue
- Photos or video evidence, if available
Note: Nature Dimensions LLC reserves the right to deny claims that do not meet the above criteria.
Customer Support
Need help with setup or troubleshooting? We aim to respond within 24 business hours. Reach us here:
- Email: support@naturedimensions.com
- IG chat: @nature_dimensions
- FB chat: @NatureDimensionsSupport
Limitation of Liability
- Nature Dimensions LLC is not liable for indirect, incidental, or consequential damages caused by the use or inability to use this product.
- The warranty is valid only in the country of purchase unless otherwise required by law.
Lifetime Warranty via Auto-Refill Subscription
N-Clear Auto-Refill keeps your fleece rolls stocked automatically and extends your device warranty for as long as your subscription remains active and eligible.
Benefits:
- Automatic delivery on your schedule.
- Enjoy a 20% discount on every roll.
- Lifetime device warranty with an active subscription.
Eligibility:
- Subscription must remain active for at least three consecutive months.
- Your device must continue to meet standard warranty conditions.
Subscribe now at naturedimensions.com/pages/autorefill.