NutraMatic 2x automatic feeder

[dwarfgourami]

This was the only automatic feeder they had in my lfs- and it turned out to be an interesting experience. Basically, there is no information on the box, they don't tell you to how long it will run for (1 wek? 2 weeks?), what size portions it dishes out, if portions are adjustable (important to me as both tanks are understocked). Nor were there any instructions inside the box. I kept the entire shop busy for a good 15 minutes, turning it over and pondering and running back to the shelf and even phoning another shop- but we are no wiser! In the end we agreed I would take it home and see if I could get it to work; if not they'll take it back.

This is what I can see from looking at it. It is battery operated. The picture shows it fixed to the top of the tank - so I'm not even sure I can fix it, because I'm jolly well not going on holiday leaving my tank lid off- I've had escapees in the past! There is a little drum thing that you fill with Nutrafin flakes. Every 12 hours this is supposed to rotate, dropping an unspecified amount of food down the tank.

Has anyone got any info on this - or, even better, info on where I can get something more reliable (online?)?

My first holiday is halfterm, week after next, but as it's only a week I'm inclined to let the fish fast then. For the summer I do want them fed, as I'm away for a fortnight, and for various reasons (serious illnesses, travels) the most reliable people will not be available.

 

[Gazoo]

I've used this unit four times for a week at a time with no problems and never had to change the batteries. I would suggest experimenting with the "slider" that adjusts the amount of dispensed food. This can be tested by just physically rotating the entire unit to see how much comes out rather than using the batteries.

I would recommend this unit although now I typically let the fish fast for a while. Another option (when available) is to put pre-measured amounts of food(s) in a weekly pill box container and have a neighbor help out. I like to keep it as simple as possible since helpers usually overfeed.