UNS Dual All-in-One Aquarium Setup Guide: Complete Accessory Overview

Introduction

The UNS Dual All-in-One Aquarium is a compact integrated system designed for both freshwater and saltwater hobbyists. This guide walks through the standard components, optional accessories, and setup procedures to help you configure the tank for your specific needs.

What Comes Included

Every Dual All-in-One Aquarium comes with a complete foundation for filtration and water circulation. The standard package includes a black coarse media sponge for mechanical filtration, two bio bricks and a bio brick riser for biological filtration, two flow nozzles (one for rotary flow and one for randomized flow), a Sigma pump, and the attachment hardware to connect the pump to the nozzles.

These core components provide the essential filtration and circulation needed to establish a stable aquatic environment. The included sponge and bio bricks form the primary biological and mechanical filtration stages, while the dual nozzle options allow you to customize water movement patterns based on your tank inhabitants and aesthetic preferences.

Freshwater vs. Saltwater Setup Differences

Setup approach varies significantly between freshwater and saltwater systems. Freshwater configurations typically use the standard black coarse sponge included with the tank for mechanical filtration. Saltwater setups, by contrast, traditionally replace the coarse sponge with a filter sock, available in either honeycomb or standard mesh options.

For saltwater systems, the filter sock conversion kit is a practical upgrade that improves particle capture and makes maintenance easier. The choice between honeycomb and standard mesh depends on your preference for flow restriction and cleaning frequency.

Optional Accessories for Saltwater Systems

The Dual All-in-One offers several optional accessories tailored to saltwater hobbyists. A media tower can be installed in the first chamber to organize and hold additional bio or mechanical media. An intake guard is available for tanks housing smaller fish or invertebrates, and it is recommended to lower the Sigma Pump flow when using the intake guard to maintain stable water levels in the back chamber.

For nutrient export in saltwater systems, you can choose between a refugium or a protein skimmer, depending on your tank size. The 40A and 60A models are the only sizes that allow simultaneous use of both the refugium and protein skimmer. Smaller models require choosing one or the other. The refugium sits in the second chamber and can be paired with an optional refugium light sold separately. The protein skimmer, designed for saltwater use only, also mounts in the second chamber against the back glass. The media riser and bio bricks occupy the bottom of the second chamber, and an adjustable water level baffle allows fine-tuning of flow dynamics.

Setting Up the Auto Top-Off System

The auto top-off (ATO) accessory helps maintain stable water levels by automatically adding freshwater as evaporation occurs. To set up the ATO, gather the unit itself, the short tube, and the long tube. The short tube connects to the water level fitting, while the longer tube connects to the ball valve.

Before installation, ensure the ball valve is closed. Cut the short tube to your desired water level height, then remove the ATO cap and fill the reservoir. Ensure the cap is fully tightened to prevent air leaks that would cause the ATO to overfill the tank. To activate the system, lift the ATO unit, turn the ball valve, and set it back onto the tank. Proper installation prevents accidental overfilling and keeps your water level consistent.

Conclusion

The UNS Dual All-in-One Aquarium provides a flexible platform for both freshwater and saltwater setups. By understanding which accessories work together and how to configure them for your specific system, you can build a stable, low-maintenance aquatic environment tailored to your needs.