The Fluval GravelVAC Multi-Substrate Cleaner S/M is a professional-quality maintenance tool designed to simplify routine aquarium cleaning for tanks up to 20″ (50.8 cm) deep. It efficiently removes trapped debris, uneaten food, and fish waste from the substrate while simultaneously performing partial water changes, helping maintain a healthier environment for fish and plants.

Key features and benefits

• Effective debris removal
  The cleaner is engineered to effectively trap dirt and debris from sand, gravel, and rock substrates without disturbing your aquascape.

• Easy Start siphon bulb
  The integrated Easy Start siphon bulb allows ultra-fast priming with just a couple of pumps, which is especially helpful for beginner aquarists who are unfamiliar with traditional siphoning techniques.

• Thumb-operated flow regulator
  A convenient thumb-operated flow regulator lets you slow down or speed up the water flow depending on whether you need a gentle clean around delicate plants or a more intensive substrate vacuum.

• Gravel guard to prevent clogging
  The integrated gravel guard prevents substrate from entering and blocking the tube, ensuring continuous, smooth operation and reducing frustration during cleaning sessions.

• Extension tube for deeper tanks
  The S/M model includes a 20 cm (8 in) extension tube, allowing you to comfortably reach deeper areas and hard-to-access spots in aquariums up to 20″ deep.

• Suitable for all substrate types
  The design makes it safe and efficient for use on fine sand, standard aquarium gravel, and decorative rock, giving flexibility for different aquascaping styles.

• Freshwater and saltwater compatible
  The GravelVAC can be used in both freshwater and marine aquariums, making it a versatile maintenance tool for a wide range of setups.

• Secure bucket clip
  A practical bucket clip is included to hold the hose in place during water changes, helping prevent accidental spills on the floor.

What’s included

• Flow regulator for precise control of water speed

• Gravel guard to prevent substrate clogging

• Intake tube for standard-depth aquariums

• 20 cm (8 in) extension tube for added reach

• Flexible PVC hoses for easy positioning

• Easy Start siphon bulb for quick priming

• Bucket clip to secure the hose during water changes

Beginner-friendly use instructions

For new aquarists, the Fluval GravelVAC is designed to be intuitive and forgiving, helping to build good maintenance habits from the start.

1. Preparation

   • Place a clean bucket below the aquarium at a level lower than the tank.

   • Attach the intake tube and, if needed, the extension tube to reach the bottom of the tank.

2. Starting the siphon

   • Submerge the intake tube fully in the aquarium water to expel air.

   • Use the Easy Start siphon bulb with a few firm pumps to start the water flow into the bucket.

3. Cleaning the substrate

   • Gently push the intake tube into the substrate so debris is lifted and carried away while heavier particles fall back down.

   • Move the tube slowly across the bottom, section by section, to avoid removing too much water at once.

4. Adjusting the flow

   • Use the thumb-operated flow regulator to slow the flow near delicate plants or decorations, or increase it for heavily soiled areas.

5. Finishing the water change

   • Once the desired amount of water is removed (typically 20–30% for routine maintenance), close the flow regulator and lift the intake tube from the water.

   • Top up the aquarium with conditioned water of matching temperature and parameters, following the needs of your fish.

Ideal for beginner aquarists

This cleaner is particularly suitable for new aquarium owners because it:

• Reduces the risk of disturbing fish and plants when used with controlled flow.

• Simplifies water changes and substrate cleaning into a single, efficient process.

• Minimizes mechanical issues thanks to the gravel guard and anti-kink hose design features.