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The eheim automatic feeder 3581 autofeeder promises easy feeding of aquarium inhabitants.
Since I have two of these devices for many years in use, I have tested them for a long time in all imaginable situations. I would like to report on my own personal experiences and answer the most important questions here.
Eheim automatic feeder pro and contra
Solid workmanship
long lasting
price/performance in order
simple programming
4 feeding times programmable
suitable for flakes and granules
single or double feed ejection
for open and closed aquariums
battery operation
ventilated feed chamber
visual warning for weak batteries
Contra:
Only one type of food possible
feed quantity different
programmed feeding times are deleted when the batteries are removed
Eheim automatic feeder scope of delivery
in addition to the actual device and the feeding chamber, the scope of delivery also includes a holder for open aquariums and a velcro strap.
With the eheim feeder even the batteries are included
Eheim automatic feeder assembly
The velcro strap is to be used to secure the machine when it is placed on an aquarium cover. I have never used it. The eheim feeder is very stable thanks to its rubber feet and has never wandered in my house. Of course, it is perfectly matched to the eheim varilux covers. But practically all modern aquarium covers have a food flap, through which the fish food can trickle.
With the plastic holder mounted on the bottom of the device, the feeder can be conveniently attached to glass panes up to a thickness of 16 mm. This probably covers all common aquarium sizes in the home area.
the practical disc holder for open aquariums
The operation of the eheim automatic feeder
If you just want to have a look at the setup, i made a video for you:
by the way, in the video i also test how evenly the eheim automatic feeder doses flake and granulate food.
The programming is simple and logical once you know how to rotate the feeder. Nevertheless, I have to take a look at the manual every now and then, if I have not adjusted the feeder for a longer period of time.
But now to the details test of the eheim automatic feeder:
If you look at the machine from the front, under the display are three buttons.
from the left to the right: mode, +, set
Programming the time:
- 1x set button press, the hour display flashes.
- +-keep button pressed or press repeatedly until the desired hour appears.
- 1x mode button press , the minute display flashes.
- +-keep button pressed or press repeatedly until the desired minute appears.
- 1x set button press, the programming of the time is completed.
Programming the feeding times:
- 1x mode button press, a small 1 appears in the upper left display.
- 1x set button press , the hour display flashes.
- +-keep button pressed or press repeatedly until the desired hour appears.
- 1x mode button press, the minute display flashes.
- +-keep button pressed or press repeatedly until the desired minute is displayed.
- 1x mode button press, the 1 in the top left of the display flashes.
- 1x +-key press for one rotation of the feeding chamber, 2x for two turns.
- 1x set button press, the programming of the feeding time is finished.
- One more press of the mode button brings you to the programming of the second feeding time.
You have the possibility to set up to 4 feeding times to set.
The display with 4 programmed feeding times
As I already mentioned in my article about the aquarium on vacation, I usually program only one feeding per day on the eheim feeder. Then, however, so much food is fed that all fish get some.
If you want to feed the fish outside the programmed times, pressing the button marked with "EHEIM" labeled button for a single rotation of the feeding drum. I have no idea who needs this feature, but please.
battery operation – advantage or disadvantage?
the eheim automatic feeder only works with 2 AA batteries. It is not possible to connect to the mains supply. In my opinion, this is a clear plus point. Even in the event of a power failure, for example if the heating rod goes crazy, the fish will continue to be fed reliably. Of course you have to pay attention to the correct polarity when using the feeder.
To insert the batteries correctly
Battery life: one of my feeders has not been used on an aquarium for at least 3 years now. I just put the device in the closet and left the batteries inside. When I retrieved the machine for this article, the batteries still showed no sign of fatigue. However, the feed chamber also rotates only 2x a day for me.
I think, even with intensive use, you are on the safe side with an annual battery change.
The eheim automatic feeder also has a visual warning if the batteries run out of juice. In this case, the display flashes and "LO" appears in the upper left corner. at the latest then it is time to change the batteries.
Weak batteries are indicated by the overlay in the top left-hand corner
flake food or granulated food in the eheim automatic feeder?
Why eheim promotes the autofeeder as particularly suitable for flake food is honestly a mystery to me. my test has shown a much more even feed quantity when using granules.
Since I only use automatic feeding during longer absences, I want to achieve the most rational feeding possible.