Setting Up Your Ecotech Vortech or Vectra Pump: A Step-by-Step Guide

Installing an Ecotech Marine pump is a smart upgrade for any saltwater aquarium—combining power, precision, and smart control. Whether you're adding a Vortech flow pump to circulate water or a Vectra return pump to power your sump system, proper setup is essential for performance and long-term reliability.

This guide will walk you through the complete setup process, from unboxing to configuring via the Mobius app.

1. Unboxing and Identifying Components

Each Ecotech pump comes well-packaged with clearly labeled parts. Inside, you’ll typically find:

Vortech MP Series:

• Wet side (goes inside the aquarium)

• Dry side motor (external)

• Foam guard

• Power supply and controller

• Mounting spacer and alignment tabs

Vectra Return Pumps:

• Pump body with integrated driver

• Multiple fittings for plumbing

• QuietDrive power supply

• Optional accessories for inline/submersible installation

🛠 Tip: Lay everything out and check for damage or missing parts before proceeding.

2. Installing the Vortech Pump (MP10, MP40, MP60)

Step-by-Step:

1. Choose Placement:

   • Place the wet side inside the tank at 2–4 inches below the water surface.

   • Avoid sandbeds and live rock to prevent clogging.

2. Magnetically Align:

   • Gently attach the dry side outside the tank, aligning it with the wet side.

   • Use the rubber spacer to adjust for glass thickness.

3. Power Up:

   • Connect the controller to the pump and plug into power.

   • The LED light will blink, indicating readiness for programming.

🌀 The Vortech design ensures no wires or heat inside the tank—ideal for reef aesthetics and coral safety.

3. Installing the Vectra Return Pump (S2, M2, L2)

Step-by-Step:

1. Decide on Mode:

   • Submersible: Place directly in the sump chamber.

   • Inline: Plumb externally using included fittings.

2. Plumb the System:

   • Use flexible tubing or PVC with unions and valves for maintenance access.

   • Ensure proper flow direction based on the arrow on the pump body.

3. Secure & Prime:

   • Mount the pump on a vibration-dampening mat.

   • Fill the sump and remove air from lines before powering on.

4. Connect Power:

   • Plug in the QuietDrive controller and monitor for leaks or noise.

4. Configuring the Pump with the Mobius App

Ecotech pumps are compatible with Mobius, a powerful app for wireless programming.

Setup Instructions:

1. Download the Mobius App (iOS/Android).

2. Create an account and add your tank profile.

3. Power on your pump and follow the Bluetooth pairing prompt.

4. Assign the pump to your tank and select the desired operating mode:

   • Vortech: Reef Crest, Lagoon, Tidal Swell, Nutrient Transport

   • Vectra: Constant Speed, Return Pump, Closed Loop

📱 Mobius lets you set schedules, monitor RPMs, and sync devices like Radion lights and Versa dosers.

5. Maintenance & Safety Tips

• Clean wet sides monthly with a vinegar soak to prevent algae and calcium buildup.

• Inspect bearings and magnet strength every 6–12 months.

• Use a battery backup to ensure continued operation during power cuts.

• Avoid dry running your Vectra pump—it can cause motor damage.

Final Thoughts

Setting up your Ecotech Vortech or Vectra pump is straightforward with the right preparation and guidance. Once installed, these pumps deliver powerful, reef-safe performance that can be customized to your aquarium’s needs.