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More FAQs about Skimmer Selection for Marine Systems 13
Related FAQs: Best Skimmer FAQs,
Skimmers 2, To Skim or Not to Skim,
Best Skimmer Selection FAQs, Skimmer
Selection, Skimmer Selection 2,
Skimmer Selection 3, Skimmer Selection 4,
Skimmer Selection 5, Skimmer Selection 6,
Skimmer Selection 7,
Skimmer Selection 8, Skimmer Selection 9,
Skimmer Selection 10, Skimmer Selection
11, Skimmer Selection 12,
DIY Skimmers,
Skimmers for Refugiums/Sumps,
Hang-On Models, Best Skimmer
Op./Maint. FAQs, Skimmer Maintenance, Skimmer
Operation/Maintenance 2, Algae Control,
Corallife Skimmers, CPR Skimmers,
Deltec Skimmers,
ETSS Skimmers, Euro-Reef Skimmers,
Prizm Skimmers,
SeaClone Skimmers, Skimmers
for Eclipse Systems, Skimmers for
Small Systems, Skilter
Skimmers, Tunze Skimmers,
Algae Control Related Articles:
Skimmers by Steven Pro,
Protein Skimmer Impressions
By Steven Pro,
Marine Filtration,
Mechanical, Physical &
Chemical, | 
All fishes benefit from high and consistent water quality. Some
outright demand it; e.g. Fairy/Velvet Wrasses
|
Skimmer Questions, sel.
11/3/09
Dear WWM. I'm in the process of setting up a 210 gal reef/fish tank. I
was considering the following protein skimmers:
· ASM G4 plus with Sedra 9000 pump for $410
· Octopus extreme 350 with a Sicce PSK-2500 pump for $650
· Tunze 9015 for $478
· Aqua C EV 400 with either a Mag 18 or GEN X MAK4 for $630
I have ample room for the skimmer and it could be placed in or out side
of the sump.
Considering the following factors: ease of use, set up, cleaning, and
cost. Could you recommend one of these skimmers?
<My first choice among these, much a personal one, is the ASM. That over
the AquaC purely due to ease of use. The Tunze is nice and effective,
just a bit odd to install while the Octopus cannot compare to the rest
IMO.>
With thanks Dan
<Welcome, Scott V.>
Skimmer question 10/15/09
Dear WWM. I'm in the process of setting up a 210 gal reef/fish tank. I
was considering the following protein skimmers:
· ASM G4 plus with Sedra 9000 pump for $410
· Octopus extreme 350 with a Sicce PSK-2500 pump for $650
· Tunze 9015 for $478
· Aqua C EV 400 with either a Mag 18 or GEN X MAK4 for $630
I have ample room for the skimmer and it could be placed in or out side
of the sump.
Considering the following factors: ease of use, set up , cleaning, and
cost. Could you recommend one of these skimmers?
With thanks Dan
<A tough choice, as all four choices will/would work... For ease of use,
cleaning, overall function, I'd narrow the choice down between the Tunze
and Aqua C unit... Bob Fenner>
Skimmer Benefits and
Disadvantages/Skimmer Selection 10/9/09
Hi Crew,
<Hello Richard>
I'm finally getting around to setting up my system and I have a couple
of questions about Protein Skimmers that I didn't find a complete answer
for on the site. My system will include a 240 gallon display on the main
floor (house is newly constructed with additional joists to handle
weight of tank) with a 150 gallon sump below it in a large equipment
room in the basement. So space is not an issue with the sump.
<Sounds nice.>
1. Beyond the issue of linear space, what are the benefits and
disadvantages of an external skimmer sitting outside the sump to an in
sump skimmer?
<No real benefits, more so for folks without room in the sump. Potential
problems with external skimmers, leaks, overskimming, etc.>
2. Which is better? Gravity fed or pump fed skimming? Does it change for
an internal or external skimmer?
<I prefer one pump systems. Gravity fed will require a separate feed
from the tank or
an additional powerhead in the sump to feed the skimmer.>
From the recommendations on the site I'm looking at one of 5 skimmers
for my setup. Would you be as kind as to run an eye over my choices and
comment on anything you see that may be detrimental to my setup or give
a personal recommendation?
<No problem.>
1. AquaC EV400 - Reasonably priced but more power consumptive (up to
$60/year) than other models. Guess that's because it's a spray injection
skimmer and uses a bigger pump? Rated up to 450 gallons.
<A good choice here.>
2. Vertex Alpha 250 - Expensive but the least consumptive skimmer of the
ones I'm looking at and therefore cost effective over a 5 year+ period.
Rated up to 350 gallons
<Another good skimmer. I use a Vertex skimmer in my system, very pleased
with it.>
3. Euro Reef VS250 - Most cost effective skimmer of the bunch.
Rated to 600 gallon, suited for 250 gallon. Will it actually reach the
upper rating?
<It may in a lightly stocked tank. They are also regarded as a good
skimmer.>
4. Deltec AP851 - I understand the Deltec skimmers are very good;
however it would have to be head and shoulders above the others given
the additional cost.
<I would prefer the AquaC or Vertex.>
5. CoralVue Octopus SuperReef 5000 External - The internal version is
rated for a lower capacity. This one is showing 400 gallons and is very
cost effective. First reviews seem positive.
<Agreed, and the cone design is said to increase efficiency. You may
want to post
this on a few bulletin boards and get actual user input on these
models.>
Thanks,
<You're welcome. James (Salty Dog)>
Richard Cullen
Aqua C Remora Pro too big for my tank? 10/5/09
Hi there,
<Hey Sarah! JustinN here!>
I recently purchased a used Aqua C Remora pro with the mag 350 pump from
someone locally.
<An excellent, high quality skimmer with quite a reputation/following..>
I only have a 25 gallon tank and I am wondering if this skimmer is too
large for it.
<Over-rated for the size of tank? Sure. Too large? Not sure such a thing
exists!>
I'm pretty sure he will take it back if it doesn't work, but if it won't
do any damage I would like to keep it. I know it is rated for 60 gallons
plus (I think),
<Up to 125 Gallons for the Pro w/ Mag3..>
but the fellow I bought it off of said it would be fine on my tank.
<...And I would agree. Better to 'over-skim' than to under-skim.>
I'm just doing more reading and concerned about over-skimming.
Thanks very much,
Sarah
<Well Sarah, your concern is understood -- but don't worry, there's no
way you could over-skim the tank. Have a look over
http://wetwebmedia.com/skimselfaqs.htm
and related links. If you decide to keep it (which, unless you have a
specific desire to return it, I highly recommend keeping), it will do
nothing but benefit your tank in the long run. Another way to look at it
is, you've got a locked in upgrade if/when you decide to move to a
larger display! Ciao! -JustinN>
Re: Aqua C Remora Pro too big for my tank? - 10/05/2009
Thank you so much :)
<You're welcome!>
The only reason I was concerned is because I was reading on WWM a
similar question where the answer was the skimmer may be too big and
there is such a thing as over-skimming :)
<Well, there are excessive levels -- but the range on these skimmers
(which are admittedly in the lower end size-wise of what's on the
market) is far from being excessive. You're not running a skimmer that
expects more turnover per minute than you have in your entire display,
so it should be fine.>
It's still quite noisy but I understand it will get quieter in a week or
so and there are also mod.s which can quiet it down. The bubbles have
gone down dramatically since first setting it up. At first my fish were
scared of them :)
Sarah
<Yes, the bubbles will calm some, but fine-tuning will be necessary. If
I recall correctly, the tuning is done by adjusting the height of the
O-ring that is on the collection cup. As far as quieting it down, you
could also
reduce the pump size on the skimmer to something like a Maxi-Jet 1200,
and it would still be more than sufficient for your needs, while
quieting it down quite a bit. My thought here is that if and when you
decide to get a larger tank, you've got one of the more expensive single
parts already purchased -- up to 120 gallons without a problem. Let me
know if you've got any more questions! -JustinN>
Skimmer Question 9/13/09
Hello Scott V/WWM Crew,
<Hello Adriel.>
Hope you're well!
<I seem to be now!>
I don't know if you remember, but since our last conversation, I've
set-up a 260gal FO (soon to be a FOWLR, hopefully). Thanks for your help
on that, its been invaluable.
<A pleasure to have assisted.>
Have a question that's been bothering me for quite a while, with regard
to skimmers. It may seem a bit silly, but here goes, What provides
better skimmate, 2 separate skimmers rated for 150gal or 1 skimmer rated
for 300gal? (power consumed is not a criterion)
<Depends entirely on the particular model skimmers used and system
configuration. There are pros to using two smaller skimmers, such as one
can run while the other is being cleaned and repaired. I like one larger
skimmer myself, if for nothing else the look of a big skimmer!>
The reason I ask this, is because, I'm looking for a proper skimmer
setup for the 260Gal. Currently, I have a Deltec APF600 (good) and a
TUNZE 9010 (not very happy with it, will remove).
I'm thinking of upgrading to a better skimmer configuration. This is why
i ask, i could keep the Deltec and buy another similar skimmer, or buy 1
BIG skimmer and use the Deltec elsewhere. Price is a factor.
<Since you already have the Deltec it certainly would be more cost
effective to purchase another smaller skimmer, though the APF600 is a
fair size here to begin with.>
What's your opinion on Cone skimmers? I do like the Vertex Alpha Cone
200, but a bit pricey. Any recommendations on cones or any others?
<Cones are neat, the idea is the bubbles will concentrate more as they
rise through the body. The downsides are expense (cone shapes just cost
more to produce) and you do lose skimmer volume per a given footprint,
an important factor in performance too.>
Thanks a ton!!!
Adriel
<Welcome, Scott V.>
Re: Skimmer Question, sel. f' 9/17/09
Hi Scott V,
Great to hear from you! As i was saying earlier I've now got a 260gal
FO.
Thing is, I'll probably be upgrading to a reef soon, (if finances
permit).
My question is, if i keep the Deltec PF600, and get a Vertex Alpha 200
Cone, and plumb them from the 1 1/2 overflows on either side of the tank
into 2 sumps and then return from a third, would this make it an
efficient skimming system?
<Running the overflows directly to the skimmer, no. There would be way
too much flow through. If you mean into the chamber the skimmer sits in,
yes, fine.>
The sumps will then hold a total volume of about 75gal roughly. Would
this configuration be enough for a FO or a reef?
<Definitely.>
Otherwise, i could just go for the Alpha 250, and leave that as the sole
skimmer. Which would you prefer?
<Both if you can swing it.>
My stocking plans are roughly, FO would be pretty heavily stocked with
approximate bioload 8xTangs, 3xLarge Angelfish, 6xAnthias (plus or minus
a couple other small species).
<Too much even for a 260.>
If a reef, would keep it 6xAnthias, 3xTangs, 3xDwarf Angels (plus or
minus a couple other small species)
Am I going overboard? :-). Would the skimmers be enough?
<They will be fine.>
On a side note, would a 3 - 3 1/2 sandbed be of any use on a FO?
<Yes, but I would go ahead and increase the depth by an inch or so.>
By the way, the 3 inch DSB that you recommended on my 45gal Nano Reef
works great so far, 0 Nitrates.............. finally!!!
Thanks,
Adriel
<Welcome, Scott V.>
Protein Skimmers/Selection 9/4/09
Hello,
<Hi Steve>
I've been using your site for the past 5 or 6 years now and have been
helped out beyond belief. Thanks for all that you guys do.
<You're welcome.>
My current tank is a 10 month old 75 gallon DAS system. 4x54 watt T5
HO(2-18000 k, 2-actinic), 1x40 watt VHO actinic, 97 lbs of live rock,
and a 1" layer of live sand. Corals include a large colony of Eagle Eye
Polyps, Green Star Polyps, mushrooms, and large frogspawn. Fish are 1
Yellow Tang, 3 Green Chromis, 1 False Percula, 1 Bi-color Blenny, and 1
Tomato Clown w/ a Long Tentacle Anemone (the False Percula is tank
raised so it wants nothing to do w/ the anemone). The skimmer on this
tank sucks, its the old style with an air stone producing bubbles. It
does pull skimmate but its not very efficient as I'm sure you are aware.
<Yes.>
I'm wanting to add more LPS and some SPS with moderate light
requirements but I'm worried that I'll need to add a better skimmer.
What do you think?
All of my levels are perfect w/ 0's for nitrate, nitrite, ammonia, and I
do a 15 gallon water change once a week.
<The water changes do help in your situation since corals do require
good water quality, and with your present fish load, I would not add any
more corals until you can incorporate an efficient skimmer into your
system.>
If I was to add a skimmer how would I go about doing that? I don't want
a hang-on or in-tank skimmer and I don't have room for an overflow box.
<You are going to have to live with a hang on skimmer, like it or not.
The AquaC Remora Pro would be a good choice for your system.>
Is there any way to pump the water directly into a stand alone skimmer
under the tank and have it pumped back into the tank ( like a canister
filter)?
<Not if you like sleeping at night, no safe/foolproof way of doing such
that I'm aware of.>
Can I get by with this skimmer or will I run into problems in the
future?
<No, the future is now.>
Thanks Again,
<You're welcome. Steve, in future queries/replies, do cap all "i's" and
proper nouns such as names of fish/corals. Saves us much time if we do
not have to do it before posting. James (Salty Dog)>
Steve
Re Protein Skimmers/Selection 9/5/09
Thanks James for the quick response. I really appreciate it!
<You're welcome Steve.>
Installing the AquaC Remora Pro on my tank would involve cutting in to
my cabinet and removing some glass strips on top of the tank. I would
like to avoid that if possible so I have another idea to run by you.
Here is a link of my H39 DAS filter. If you scroll to the bottom there
is a little diagram for you to look at.
http://www.petstorefixtures.com/H29___H39_Drawings___Instructions_JPG.pdf
I was wondering if I could install a Tunze DOC Protein Skimmer 9005 in
the first chamber and take out the spool that's currently in there. The
chamber measures 5.5" x 5" so I think it would fit but I'm concerned
that it would take away too much biological filtration.
<It would fit as the DOC skimmer's footprint is 4.9 x 4.4 inches, but it
does require an immersion depth of 9.4 to 11.4 to operate properly.
With the amount of live rock you have, biological filtration should not
be a problem.>
I could add some media in the old skimmer compartment to help but that's
pretty small. The spool compartment is pretty deep as well but it looks
like the Tunze skimmer comes with some sort of mounting system that
could raise it off the bottom of the tank. Is that true?
<Yes, I believe an adjustable hanging device. See Tunze instructions (in
three languages) for this model here.
http://www.tunze.com/fileadmin/gebrauchsanleitungen/x9010.8888.pdf>
Also, I've read nothing but good things on these skimmers on this site
but other store reviews have been pretty bad ("noisy", "not much
skimmate", "broken pieces on arrival" etc...) Are these good skimmers?
<I've used Tunze skimmers in my 35+ years in the hobby, and thought they
performed very well. Here is a link to one etailer that handles Tunze
skimmers.
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Co
de=T9005.00&Category_Code=Tunze3843>
Please let me know if I'm on the right track or if the AquaC Remora is
my best option.
<If you can provide the immersion depth required, the Tunze looks like
the best way to go in your situation.>
Thanks,
<You're welcome. James (Salty Dog)>
Steve
Type and brand of protein skimmer: Skimmer Selection 9/1/2009
Hi again Wet Web Experts. D'Ann here.
<Hello again D'Ann.>
In my 55 plus tank I have added a power head (#3). The water is moving
in all spots. I still have 2 Green Chromis that seem to be quite stable
now!!
<Good news.>
Though the larger one tries to bully the smaller.
<Typical.>
Also my Yellow Star Polyps are full and beautiful A very small Zoanthid
looks good (to me), and a Green Star Polyp is actually growing like a
weed.. And now there is a brown mushroom appearing on the stone with the
Green Star polyp. Kenya tree is growing taller. Took out some Hermits
because they kept setting on the Green Star Polyp, and I didn't trust
them not to be hurting it or nibbling on it. Water is doing well. I
think I should go ahead and add a protein skimmer at this point.
<A very good addition.>
Question #1.. Is there one (Protein skimmer), that is quieter and most
efficient??
<Most newer skimmers are pretty quiet actually. They will all produce
some noise, but there are things you can do to minimize it - make sure
the skimmer is not touching the side of the sump, a small piece of
neoprene under the pump will keep the pump noise down, etc.>
Do you have a favorite?
<I'm a fan of Euro Reef, Aqua C, and Sealife Systems Impact Skimmers.
All are efficient and well built, but like anything else, each has their
advantages and disadvantages.>
I have read about the amount of noise some produce and this is a centre
piece in my living/dining area.
<Some of the things I mentioned above will help with the noise.>
I am knew to this hobby, as you can figure. My wet dry under the tank is
one made standard for a 75 Gallon tank and has a Rio 3100 pump in it.
Question #2.. I am reading that some of you think you really don't need
the bio balls. Is this true?
<With enough live rock (1 - 1.5 lbs\gallon), bio-balls are not really
necessary, and will contribute to high nitrates.>
I bought this set up 15 years ago and just recently got around to
telling my husband I was setting it up whether he liked it or not, (he
is liking it), and therefore I went with what I was told to buy 15 years
ago!!
<That is fine, you can just take the balls out if you want.>
Question #3.. the temp is running 74-76 degrees. Is this too cool as I
suspect?
<A little on the cool side, but not by much.>
And what is the very best heater for my 55 gallon, young reef tank?
<I'm a fan of Rena and Jaeger heaters.>
I would like to not waste my money and get it right the first time.
<Both make good equipment that lasts.>
There are so many products/brands I do not know which to trust the most,
and the 2 shops in the area give conflicting 'opinions'. Your help and
guidance is greatly appreciated.
Much thanks. D'Ann
<My pleasure, MikeV>
SW Setup: Skimmer selection\sizing 8/30/2009
Hi guys,
<Hi>
I recently posted an idea for a rather inventive space saving sump,
which wasn't without its pitfalls. It's my baby so I will look to see if
I can find a way to solve the problems you pointed out to me.
<Feel free to bounce ideas off of me, your design has me intrigued.>
I have another query for now, if I've got a extremely well stocked tank,
and I need to chose a protein skimmer for my sump. If a skimmer has a
rating for a heavily stocked tank equal in volume to my tank would you
suggest doubling up. Basically can I over skim??
<I don't know if doubling up is necessary, but I agree that some of the
claims regarding tank size are over optimistic, so I would go to the
next larger rated size.>
And how do the Deltec turbo skimmers perform, I've seen the stats but
haven't read an aquarists
account of how they found it?
<Not familiar with the brand myself, perhaps someone who reads this can
chime in.>
Cheers guys
<MikeV>
Protein Skimmer sel. 8/19/09
I was doing some e-bay shopping for a new upgrade protein skimmer for my
100 gal with refugium. I have two messy triggers and a eel.
<Too much for this volume>
I have read most of your FAQ and I am still not sure which skimmer is
best for me. I currently have the Coralife super skimmer 125. I came
across a few vertex: IN 180 for $284, Turboflotor T100 for $179, ASM G2
for $ 270
and vertex in 250 for $260. Can you please tell me if I am on the right
track?
<Mmm, sure. You're not>
I am on a budget of about $300, is my budget enough to purchase a good
skimmer for really messy fish? I am having nitrate problems. I do
regular water changes, refugium with mangrove trees, Chaeto and tons of
different
types of Caulerpa. I have about 80-90 lbs of live rock. I have a UV as
well. Thanks
<Use the money toward buying a system of suitable size... new or used...
rather than fighting a gradient of your own mis-devising. Bob Fenner>
Protein Skimmer Recommendation 8/17/09
I have a 100 gal with a 15 gal refugium, uv sterilizer and a coral life
125 skimmer. I was thinking about upgrading my skimmer. Can you
recommend a few for me please?
< Sure. I personally go by the 2 Xs rule when it comes to skimmers ,
i.e. , you need a skimmer rated for twice the size of your system.
Of course stocking levels come in to play as well. There are lots of
good skimmers on the market depending on your price range. AquaC-
EV180ASM , Reef Octopus EX-200 , Vertex IN-250 are a few good moderately
priced in-sump skimmers that would suit your needs. If you are looking
for a hang on the back I would go with a CPR product. GA Jenkins >
Re: Protein Skimmer sel. 8/18/09
Does it matter if I go with a in sump or hang on, is one better than the
other?
<There are some makes, models that are superior, inferior in/to both>
My skimmer now is hanging on the side of my refugium. Do you have a
prefer choice of protein skimmer?
<Oh yes: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/skimselfaqs.htm
and the many linked files above>
I want to get the best valve for the buck. I was thinking about getting
the Coralife super skimmer 220, I have the 125 and it seems to work well
and is easy to adjust. I have two triggers and a eel, I have a healthy
refugium with mangrove trees, Chaeto and tons of different types of
Caulerpa, I do regular water changes and feed twice a day small portion
and I'm battling nitrate issues.
<There are other avenues to pursue re... see WWM...>
I built a coil denitrator a week ago,
<Ahhh! Such constructs take "a while" to "kick in">
I running out of ideals to keep my nitrate lower than they are now,
20-60ppm. Any help or ideals would be appreciated. Thanks Terry
<Read on. Bob Fenner>
Aqua C or Octopus/Skimmer Selection 7/28/09
Hello,
<Hello Juan>
first of all congratulations for your website, it has been my first
reference when I have needed help with my freshwater tank. Now I am
planning to set a saltwater aquarium of around 100 or 125 gallons (first
year only fishes and then after getting more experience move to corals
little by little).
<OK>
The first thing I am planning to purchase is the skimmer, so I can
custom design the sump. I have read several posts about skimmers, but I
just have 2 options Aqua C EV 240 or Octopus Skimmers (Extreme 200 and
maybe DNW 200 Recirculating; I don’t know yet which one is better
between these two).
<The DNW 200 requires a feed pump or plumbed from an overflow to inject
water into the skimmer, so do keep that in mind.>
Based on reviews on this site AquaC looks great. It seems it only has
one drawback which is the big pump needed to work (145 watts with Mag 18
for excellent performance). In the other hand the Octopus only uses a 30
watt pump.
<And less heat transfer.>
Aqua C seems better than Octopus, even though here in my country,
Octopus is quite popular and some people start to prefer it over AquaC,
so I am a little confused. Do you think is it worth the much higher
operation cost of an AquaC over any of the Octopus Models.
<Although the EV 240 is a great skimmer, in this country, we are looking
at $400.00 plus the cost of the pump, versus the Octopus 200 for just
under
$300.00 with an Italian made Sicce PSK-2500 pump. The disadvantage of
the Octopus 200 is that it requires a sump level of 8-10 inches to
operate properly.
Both are good performing skimmers, but if it were my choice, with a
budget in mind, I'd likely go with the Octopus.>
The initial cost is not a matter since the difference in price is not
that much, what worries me more is the operation cost and the
cost-benefit overall.
<Yes, the Mag 18 will draw nearly 79% more energy than the Sicce pump
and with your tank selection of 100-125 gallons in mind, the Octopus 200
will be
a good performer for you. The EV 240 would be a little overkill.>
Thanks a lot for the time you take to answer our questions.
<You're welcome.>
If you find hard to understand my mail, please let me know I will try to
rewrite it in a better way for you.
<Your writing is just fine my friend.>
Have a wonderful day.
<And you as well. James (Salty Dog)>
Juan Carlos
Re: Metal Halide Migraine... now skimmer chatting
7/17/09
Thank you so much!
<Welcome.>
I am making this T5 light my next purchase!! I am also needing help
choosing a skimmer for this oddball size `50g tank. Which skimmer would
you point me to that would accommodate anything I might want to add in
the
future.
<EuroReef, AquaC or the new Vertex series (quite some bang for the
buck).>
Thank you again for sharing your wisdom! There just aren't enough hours
in the day for me to re-invent the wheel reading and learning from all
of the good and not so good stuff on the web. You're awesome!
Amy
<Thank you, have fun, Scott V.>
Skimmer Upgrade? 7/13/09
Hi!!!
<Hello Steve.>
I was just wondering if you can help me make up my mind.
<Can try/suggest.>
I've been running a Coralife 220 super skimmer on my 180 gallon (50 gal
sump) reef tank for about 3 years and was wondering if an upgrade would
be beneficial to my system. My choices are between a Vertex in-sump 250
(399.00 Cdn) or an Aqua C EV240 (690.00 Cdn).
<This skimmer does not include the pump which will add another 125.00 or
so to the cost.>
The price difference has me leaning towards the Vertex. The issue is
basically algae on the glass, which I have to clean off every 3 or 4
days, and sand which gets that browny look to it about 2 days after my
bi-weekly water change (RO water) and sand vacuum. I run carbon for a
week, a week after the water change until the next one.
<All carbons use phosphorous in the manufacturing process, and depending
on the quality of the carbon, will leach some phosphate into the water.
I use Chemi-Pure which is a mix of high grade carbon very low and ion
exchange resins. This product has significantly improved my water
conditions and lowered nuisance algae growth.>
My corals also don't look happy all the time (opening and closing),
especially my very large Colt Coral. I have about 180 lbs of Live rock.
The fish are happy, have not lost any in about a year (whenever I buy a
Goby, it disappears). They include a Naso tang, Yellow Tang, Regal Tang,
Tomato Clown, Maroon Clown, Saddleback Butterfly, Coral Beauty, and
Flame Angel.
Thanks and I appreciate your opinion!!!
<The EV240 is a great skimmer, but will run you over 500 bucks with the
pump. I use a Vertex Skimmer and I have found it to be one of the best
skimmers I've ever used and is very easy to clean and service. You may
want to read the review I wrote on the model I purchased. See here.
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/vertexskimerart.htm
James (Salty Dog)>
Steve
Skimmer Upgrade? 7/12/09
Hi!!!
< Hello! >
I was just wondering if you can help me make up my mind.
< I can try. >
I've been running a Coralife 220 super skimmer on my 180 gallon(50 gal
sump) reef tank for about 3 years and was wondering if an upgrade would
be beneficial to my system.
< It may. In my opinion the 220 is not big enough for a setup that size
without other types of filtration and lite stocking. >
My choices are between a Vertex in-sump 250 (399.00 Cdn) or an Aqua c
ev240 (690.00 Cdn). The price difference has me leaning towards the
Vertex.
< With a price difference of that amount ,it is worth looking into.>
The issue is basically algae on the glass, which I have to clean off
every 3 or 4 days, and sand which gets that browny look to it about 2
days after my bi-weekly water change(RO water) and sand vacuum. I run
carbon for a week, a week after the water change until the next one. My
corals also don't look happy all the time (opening and closing),
especially my very large Colt Coral. I have about 180 lbs of Live rock.
The fish are happy, have not lost any in about a year (whenever I buy a
Goby, it disappears).
They include a Naso tang, yellow Tang, Regal tang, Tomato Clown, Maroon
Clown, Saddleback Butterfly, Coral Beauty, and Flame Angel. Thanks and I
appreciate your opinion!!!
< The Aqua C is an awesome skimmer but the price range does scare some
away. ScottV and I have actually been discussing Vertex Skimmers over
the last few days. The craftsmanship and material used in the
construction are of excellent quality. The reviews as well have been
great. The only gripes, complaints, etc. .. have been of the pumps. They
seem to be very inefficient and do not hold up well. This has supposedly
been remedied but even with a new pump you would be coming out much
cheaper. The Vertex seems like a
great deal to me but I would price a new pump to be on the safe side. GA
Jenkins >
Steve
Marineland in-sump protein
skimmer 100
Protein Skimmer for a 55 Gallon 7/8/09
Dear Crew,
Just wondering if you have any experience or opinion on Marineland
in-sump protein skimmer 100.
It seems to be half the price of AquaC EV 120 which I was considering
for my 55g setup.
< The Marineland skimmer is half the price of the AquaC because it is
half the skimmer. The Aqua C is a great skimmer but for something a bit
less tough on the wallet I would suggest looking into a Reef Octopus (
NWB-150
or 110 for a 55). They are great bang for your buck.
http://www.aquacave.com/reef-octopus-nwb-150-br-needle-wheel-protein-br-skimmer-749.html
>
Thank you.
< You're welcome GA Jenkins >
Vlad
Re: Protein Skimmer for a 55
Gallon 7/8/09
Thank you for the information.
< Your welcome. >
How about ASM G1? How is in comparison to EV 120?
< This is comparing apples to oranges. The EV 120 is in a separate
league.
The ASM is a very good skimmer and would be plenty for a 55. >
Thanks.
< Anytime. GA Jenkins >
Many a questions for you.... Reef sump... skimmer sel.
Qs 6/1/09
Hello,
Hope all is well with everyone. I have a few questions for you. I have a
180g reef tank that I would like to retro fit a sump to. I want to add a
HOT overflow box to the tank and would like to know:
1. What kind? I am thinking a CPR overflow, but what size?
<As large a model that you can fit, ideally two for redundancy with the
return pump only flowing what one can handle. You can not have too much
overflow capacity!>
2. How big of a sump?
<As large as you can fit in the space.>
3. How big a return pump? I would like to have an underwater pump. The
distance from the sump to the tank is about 5-6 feet.
<See above.>
4. What skimmer do you recommend? I am looking at the Bubble King, the
Royal Exclusiv Alpha 170 or the Vertex IN-250? I don't know if you have
any experience with these but I would love you opinion on which you
think is the best for the money.
<The Vertex hands down for the dollar. Both are fine skimmers though.>
Thanks for your help in the past and on this question.
- Jeromy
<Welcome, Scott V.>
Re: Many a questions for
you.... skimmer sel. 6/1/09
Thanks for the quick reply.
<Welcome.>
Of the skimmers listed, if money was no object, which would you get.
<I would still go with Vertex. The BKs are just as good, if not better,
but for myself I could not justify any kind of cost-benefit with those.>
I keep hearing the Vertex pumps are bad.
<The initial run had impeller shaft issues, that is remedied now.>
Which would you pick. Also, what size. I heard you don't want to
overskim!!
<I am from a different perspective. I say pick the largest skimmer you
can fit where you plan to put it. Overskimming is not a real concern.>
Thanks,
Jeromy
<Welcome, Scott V.>
Live rock and skimmer selection. 05/27/09
To whom it may concern:
<Today it is Josh.>
I am currently switching my 265 gal tank over to a natural filter
system. I need another 230 lbs of live rock as I already have 300
or so in there.
<Wow, where are all the fish going to go?>
My first question is what size of skimmer should I be looking at and
could anyone possibly recommend a manufacturer?
<Hmm, before you can decide on a size you need to decide on a
manufacturer. Some of more high quality brands have tank size ratings
you can really trust, while some others exaggerate a little bit. If you
are one of those that heavily stock their tanks, I suggest you go
slightly larger than you
think you need. For recommendations on skimmer brands please read
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/bestskmrSelfaqs.htm , although in my opinion
you cannot go wrong with a Euro Reef.>
Right now I'm running a CPR filter with 2 6" skimmers built in but they
don't seem to work well.
<You will likely benefit from an "upgrade".>
My second question is will that amount of rock suffice?
<There are many different kinds of live rock, if this rock is fairly
porous and you put two pounds per gallon into the tank, you will hardly
have any
room for fish to swim or corals to grow. Depending on the quality of the
rock, I would generally recommend anywhere from one pound per gallon to
two pounds per gallon. The two pounds per gallon generally only works
with really dense and heavy rock. If you start to fill up your whole
tank
with live rock then you might be better off moving some live rock to a
sump or other remote tank, so you can still have room for animals in
your
display. The short answer to the question is, it likely is more
than enough.>
Thanks in advance for your help
<Your welcome.
Josh Solomon>
Re: Water Quality: Ph Decline: (4/1/2009) Update and skimmer selection
5/26/2009
Hi Mike,
<Hi Junaid!>
Its been a while since my last email. I followed your suggestions about my
pH decline issue. I mix the saltwater 2 to 3 days in advance and keep in
aerated with a Rio pump. The pH is a little better than what it was
before.
Still not 8.3 but I am not sweating it too much. At least now it doesn't
go
below 7.85 at night. Before it was going down to as low as 7.5!
<Excellent news. Again, stability is more important than trying to hit an
exact number.>
Besides keeping the water mixed up in advance, I also have two airstones in
my sump
to keep it aerated which I think is helping as well.
<It is.>
I also have a couple of powerheads pointing towards the surface of the
water and the agitation I
believe is also helping. I think aeration was the main issue. Since my pH
problems, I have also installed a double chamber Calcium Reactor so with
the
changes I have made the pH is not declining and I'm a happy reefer!!! All
my
fish are healthy as well. The Foxface is showing its bright yellow color
again as well.
<All excellent news.>
NOW, I have decided to upgrade to a 90 gallon tank!!!
<Hehehe, it starts with a 90, soon it will be a 150.>
I have purchased the tank and have a 40 gallon sump to go with it as well.
It was a separate
compartment for a sump and skimmer. It also has a separate compartment to
have a refugium which is what I wanted to do for a while now but didn't
have
space in my sump with the 55 gallon setup. I have everything in place
except
for the light and protein skimmer. I am not too worried about the light
since I know what setup I want (dual 175 W Metal Halide, with 2
fluorescent
and 2 actinic).
<Ok>
However, I am having such a hard time with the protein skimmer. I used
Marineland 100 for my 55 g setup but I don't think it was
a good choice.
<I've heard both good and bad about them.>
I have decided to invest in a very good skimmer. I think I
have narrowed it down to a Aqua C EV 120 or the Aqua Medic Turboflotor
1000.
EuroReef and Deltecs are too expensive and I can probably do with the two
choices I have mentioned.
<I agree>
Basically my range is $350 to $400 CDN. I have searched and searched so
much but the more I search for a good choice of
skimmers, the more my head gets clouded! From your experience, what would
be
a very very good choice for an in sump protein skimmer for a 90 gallon
setup? Besides the two choices, I am willing to lean at other suggestion
as
well. Please advise. Looking forward to your response.
<Either of those skimmers would serve you well. Of the two though, I would
choose the Aqua C as being just a bit better.>
Junaid
<MikeV>
Sick of my SeaClone! 3/16/09
Hello Crew,
<Hello Karen.>
I feel that I have done my due diligence searching the articles and
FAQ's but still have a question regarding protein skimmer selection. I
have a 20 gal FOWLR (running for 3 1/2 years now) with 2 Ocellaris
clowns, a blue legged hermit, 3-4 misc. small hermits and a few snails.
I have a Fluval 205 canister, a power head, and a SeaClone skimmer. I am
sick of the leaking, fiddling, and general unworthy-ness of the
SeaClone.
<The usual story with these.>
I'd like to get the AquaC Remora nano because everything I've read about
it is promising, however it will be a stretch for me to pay that much.
The Red Sea Prism is a bit cheaper, but reviews say it's noisy and not
as efficient.
<You will find it comparable to the SeaClone in needing to fiddle with
the thing too.>
I found a couple small, inexpensive skimmers, but no reliable reviews on
them. They are the Taam Rio Nano Skimmer and the Current Fission Nano
Skimmer. I'd really appreciate some input.
Thanks!
Karen Garrett
<Well, hands down do just save up for the AquaC. It is in a class of its
own here. Scott V.>
Protein Skimmer Queries Selection 3/3/09
Hi there great knowledgeable ones, It's Barry again. <Hi Barry>
Have a question about Protein Skimmer setup. Tank Info first so you
get the lowdown: Display tank: 1.8m(L) X 0.9m(H) X 0.7m(W) <Mmm,
about 285 gallons.> FOWLR 1 X Volitans (4") 1 X Russell's Lion
(4") 1 X clown trigger (2.5") 1 X niger trigger (3") 1 X
Picasso trigger (2.5") 1 X Spotted Grouper (3.5") 1 X Porc Puffer
(3.25") Sump: 1.2m(L) X 0.6m(H) X 0.5m(W) <About 80 gallons topped
off.> Flow rate approx: 550 Gph <You need to get this flow rate up
near 3000gph for the size tank you have.> Background: I do regular
water changes (20% weekly) through gravel vacuuming but nitrates still
stay high at 50-60ppm. Other parameters are: N02 - 0ppm, Ammonia - 0ppm
(haven't tested others apart from these 3) <I'd be interested to see
what the pH is, likely under 8.0.> So I concluded that my current
protein skimmer is rather ineffective. It is a rather cheap one made in
Asia: BLUE FORCE Skimmer NM-150 <http://www.deepblueaqua.com.cn/shop/goods.php?id=712>
- Flow Rate at 600-800L per (not even sure if you guys have heard of
it). <I never have, some crew members may have.> I believe this is
causing my nitrates to stay high considering my bioload from the tank
mates to be quite heavy. <For sure.> I feed twice a day and food
is consumed within 1 minute. I take the effort to ensure what goes in
gets eaten and doesn't go to the bottom of the tank to become detritus,
or if uneaten and falls to the bottom by chance, I immediately vacuum
that portion of substrate and replace the amount of water I vacuum out
with standby saltwater. Question: 1. Do I add on an additional
Protein Skimmer to the current setup or just totally swap out the
current for a single really high end one to help contain the bioload and
drop the nitrates? <I would just use one designed for your tank size,
why have two to maintain especially if one is so so.> 2. If your
recommendation is to swap out the existing for a high end one, which
would you recommend for a tank of my specified volume? Need to consider
least fiddly and messing about to calibrate (so I can get it to work
optimum faster) <With your size tank and high waste producers, I
would go with a Beckett type skimmer such as Precision Marine's Bullet 3
skimmer which will handle up to a 400 gallon tank and are designed for
high waste systems such as yours. You cannot have too much skimmer,
the goal here is to remove the waste faster than it can accumulate.
Do read here on this skimmer's development.
http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2002-03/fm/index.php And a link to
one dealer that carry these skimmers.
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=PM-BULLET3&Category_Code=PM
There are alternatives, and the Aqua C or Vertex are hassle free and
will do a good job. With the Vertex you would need to use two skimmers
as their highest rated model is good for 280 gallons and would be
borderline for your needs. I just feel that the Bullet skimmer which
incorporates the Beckett Foam Head will be more efficient in waste
removal. Bob may input here with his recommendation also.> 3. How
soon do you think, with a change to the recommended skimmer, will it be
able to drop the nitrates? Of course this is assuming all feeding
variables stay the same and no change in my husbandry techniques.
<Pretty tough to answer that with any accuracy, but I'd say you should
see a nitrate reduction within the first week based on your husbandry.
The goal here is to remove the waste faster than it can accumulate.
Looking forward to being enlightened. <Hopefully you have been
enlightened. James (Salty Dog)> Barry
Re Protein Skimmer Queries Selection And Now
Denitrators 3/4/09 James,
Can't thank you enough for quick reply and great advice.
<You're welcome.> Some
food for thought to feed your interest on my PH levels ;)
It reads 8.28 at night and in the day, drops to 8.22 but
never beyond. Assume that is healthy right?
<As healthy as a newborn.>
I had a run around the shops today (forgot to mention that
I live in Beijing, China). They don't carry Aqua C, Vertex or Precision Marine.
Only the REALLY expensive Bubble Kings.
<Excellent skimmer and as you say pricey.> But I
did see a shop carrying a Korallin S-3002 Denitrator with the Eheim 1048 pump.
Do you see this as a viable solution in nitrate reduction as well?
<Yes, the design is based around the C-1502 calcium
reactor and combines sulphur media with calcareous media and will give you a
high level of nitrate removal and is rated for systems up to 400 gallons. The
recirculation method is far more efficient than simple single pass filters.
As it includes reactor media, the pH is fully
buffered and enriched with calcium before being returned to the tank. You will
not see any immediate drop in nitrates, but once the bacteria colonize the
chamber (3 to 4 weeks), the unit is said to reduce 100 liters with 50mg of
nitrate to 0 in 3 to 4 days. There are public
aquariums that use this same method of nitrate removal.>
My thoughts are that both the recommended skimmer and the
denitrator are within the same price range and my end objective is only to
reduce nitrates so either way seems fine. Do you think so?
<Yes, in your situation, it is a very viable solution. I
will ask Bob here for his thoughts on this type of reactor.>
<<My thoughts on NO3 reactors are all posted. Some of
these units can be made to work... RMF>> Now I
await the wise salty one to speak :-) <No cracks
so early in the morning, I have a cold and the laughter is making me cough.
James (Salty Dog)> Barry
Re: Suggestions... skimmer sel., AquaC... pump for...
gen. mar. maint. 2/26/09 Thank you Scott V. for your reply.
<Very welcome.> Just found out about this site about a month ago, there is a
ton of information on here. Thanks for referring to the other links. After more
research, i agree with you and will go with Remora #2. Will put # 1, which has
Maxi-Jet 1200 pump, on 55 gallon, and go with a Remora with a Rio 1400 or
Mag-Drive 3 pump. One better than the other? <The Mag for my taste.> With
being unable to install a sump right now, the Emperor 400 filter, should it stay
or go. Would good canister filter be better? <Not really in this case, with
the live rock you will basically just be using the filter for running a bit of
carbon. You already have the Emperor and it is just easier to replace the carbon
IMO.> I figure with the fishes, i need some kind of filtration besides
skimmer? <With the live rock and a bit of carbon, no, not necessary.>
Didn't know that about sand sifting star. He, or she, is one of tanks first
inhabitants. It is about twice the size as when first put in. Because of rock,
it stays in about 1/3 of tank, in front. But if it is sucking the life out of
sand, it will go. Will take to LFS and trade or give to. <The real issue is
it will deplete the live in the sand until it has nothing left to live on
itself.> What are other critters good at keeping sand clean? <Nassarius
snails and the microfauna that will populate the sand from the live rock. See:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/dsbbiomakeup.htm for other options.> I test for
salt, try to keep at 1.024, Ammonia, pH, Nitrites, Nitrates, Calcium, try to
keep about 400. Anything else i should be testing for? <Definitely carbonate
hardness, I would test for magnesium too though. And I would raise your spg to
1.025 too.> The Bubble Tip has been in tank about 5 months. It attached near
bottom on rock, about half under a ledge over sand bed. It has never moved from
this spot. The 2 Maroons have been in about a year. They were both about the
same size at time. One has grown very little, about 2 inches. The other is now
about 3 times it's size, female i figure, it now wants to keep all the sand
blown away. Down to the glass. Like a bowl. I push sand back in and in short
order, swishing and with mouth, she has her bowl again. Should i leave her
alone? <Yes, not much you can do if the fish wants to dig, other than remove
the fish.> The Anemone, it stays open for the most part, sometimes it gets
in a ball, but it isn't filled out like at first. I hand feed it, once a week, a
piece of raw shrimp about the size of a nickle. I was thinking of maybe feeding
twice a week and soaking shrimp in some Zoe? <You can, yes.> Now to the 55
gallon. The rock i put in last week is doing good. No spikes at all. I've got
some hitchhikers. After putting rock in i started hearing this clicking sound. I
thought, oh no, sure enough, 2 Mantis Shrimp, that i know of. My first time to
deal with these bad boys. I see now why Mr Fenner says with any size these would
be the T-Rex of the ocean. They are bad to the bone! <!> Will have to get
these out before adding any livestock. Just a comment here. I think i have
come a long way in this so far, but have so much more to learn, i thank you for
your help. <I am happy we have been able to help out.> I have gotten a
lot of compliments on my tank. Have had people come by, they see the tank, say,
what's that, grab up a chair, sit in front of tank, they are just amazed, ask
400 questions, what's that, wow, look at that, is that alive. Now i have people
come by asking, how's the tank? As always, thank you for any suggestions.
<Welcome.> Larry Protein Skimmer Question, sel., AquaC
2/19/09 Hi All, <Hello Chad.> First let me say that I
love the site! You guys, and gals are the absolute best at what you do!
Many times I have referred to your website when all else has failed. So
my many thanks! <Well thank you!> So, now to my question. I
currently have a 75 FOWLR tank, but am going to be upgrading to a 120 in
the near future. My current protein skimmer is an AquaC Remora Pro, and
it has performed flawlessly. <A good skimmer!> I am afraid though
that it will no longer be enough for the new tank. I would like to move
from a fish only tank, to a more of a reef tank in the future. What
would you guys/gals suggest for a new protein skimmer? I would like
something that could run externally on my 40 gallon sump/refugium. Any
suggestions? With so many different options out there, I guess I am just
wanting the best "bang" for the buck. <The go to choices are still
EuroReef or the EV series from AquaC…the new Vertex line of skimmers is
a great performer too, and cheap! See which of these fits your budget
and system design, you will be happy with any of these.> Thanks,
Chad <Welcome, Scott V.> Re: Losing fish after tank
cleaning/water change, skimmer sel. 2/17/09
Thanks for the help. Sorry I hit the wrong key on the pH. It is 8.3. I
have added 10 lbs crushed coral and will go looking for some live rock
this weekend. Hopefully this will help. Also I was reading on your site
and found that my skimmer (Skilter 400) is not held in very high
regards. <Mmm, no... is barely functional as such> I maybe get an
ounce of liquid in there per week and it is not that dark. My water
parameters are still OK. Does this mean the skimmer is doing its job?
<Not likely... other aspects, gear are doing this...> I would think
if there skimmer were not efficient the water quality would suffer. I
think I am going to order an AquaC Remora to replace it (just in case).
<A hugely better product> When I do replace the Skilter do I still
need to run a carbon filter or does a good skimmer and live rock bypass
this? Thanks, Chris <You can use the Skilter for such
chemical filtrant applications. BobF> ASM G2 Or AquaC
Remora Pro? 2/12/09 A HOB Skimmer Or A Sump With Skimmer
Hi guys! <Hello David> First, and always, thanks for all of your
help--you guys do a tremendous service and I truly appreciate it.
<You're welcome.> I'm in the process of setting up a 92 gallon corner
tank for the living room. The current plan is FOWLR, and I doubt I'll be
going reef any time in the next year or two. The current set-up (all
bought used but in fine working condition): 1. 92 gallon All-Glass
tank, not pre-drilled 2. Odyssea PC lights, 4x65 3. Rena Filstar
XP-2 4. 40lb of Live Sand (looking to add another 40lb) 5. 60lb of
Live Rock 6. 29 gallon quarantine tank with BioWheel 200, and 3-4
inch layer of sand/crushed coral. The tank is currently cycling, and
the livestock consists of a six hermits, six snails, and a shy
peppermint shrimp. Next on my agenda and before any fish is choosing the
right protein skimmer. <Yes.> Because the tank is not pre-drilled,
I was not originally planning on using a sump. Instead I was going to
invest in the pricey, but highly touted AquaC Remora Pro to do my
skimming. I had some good skimmate with a CPR BakPak with an Acella pump
on an earlier 75 FOWLR, but always found that my nitrates were high. So
I did some research at your site and others and AquaC looks like a very
good company. <It is and very good customer service.> I asked some
friends what they thought, though, and they said I'd be better off with
a sump than an HOB. One guy I know is downgrading and selling a CPR
overflow, 30 gallon sump, and ASM G2 for about $100 less than the Remora
Pro. (It's been used, obviously.) I like the idea of the sump because of
the possibility of having a refugium, and although the tank is a corner
unit, it's already off one wall 5 inches because my original plan was to
have a HOB skimmer. What are your thoughts on the ASM G2--is it
comparable with the Remora Pro (better/worse)? What do you recommend?
<If it were me, I'd take the used package with the sump, overflow and
the ASM G2. A sump offers increased gas exchange and a place to put your
heater and protein skimmer. The HOB Remora has no external drain
connection on the collection cup. That scares me, there is always the
chance the cup may overflow getting the nice brown skimmate on your
floor or carpet. If you go the HOB route, I'd suggest installing an
external drain to the collection cup. As to which skimmer is better,
I've never used an ASM skimmer so my first hand knowledge is nil, but
from what I've learned about them, I'd say the G2 would have an edge
over the Remora Pro due to your tank size. The ASM G2 is advertised to
handle up to a 200 gallon tank where the Remora claims 75+. How far does
+ go, I don't know. I've also heard the ASM's are overrated as to the
tank size they will handle. Just hearsay mind you, I have no facts. The
ASM G2 also comes with a Sedra pump which in my opinion is a much better
pump than the Rio 1400 that is included with the basic Remora Pro
package. You will be much happier with a sump and an in-sump skimmer.>
Thanks always! <You're welcome. James (Salty Dog)> -David
Skimmer Selection Problems 2/7/09 Hello, <Hi there.>
I am an aspiring first time reefer looking for a good first skimmer. I
have researched online many times and (needless to say) still have more
questions than answers. I have a 55 gallon tank that is (hopefully)
going to be in operation one day as a reef tank. This tank is already
equipped with a small (ten gallon) wet/dry filter/sump and another
filter running activated carbon. I am looking for a reliable skimmer
that has a good reputation and by all means WON'T overflow. The skimmer
would also have to be easy to operate, set up, and clean (back to
the fact that I'm a first-time reefer) and can handle the bio-load. Both
of these are factors are more important than price. I do have live rock
and live sand and I am planning on adding more soon. I did look at the
Aqua-C Urchin series and Coralife needle wheel. I dropped the Coralife
after seeing some of the terrible reviews for this product. (My LFS only
sells one kind of skimmer which I have never heard of on internet forums
- by Sealife Systems.) I was hoping you could point me in the right
direction as far as skimmers go as there are so many choices out there.
<The Aqua C hands down, the least likely skimmer out there to flow over
and great skimmer for this size tank.> Thanks a lot <Welcome,
Scott V.> Good
short skimmer, sel. 1/21/09 Hola Crew. <Como estas
John?> I have a 75 gallon tank with a 30 gallon sump refugium
combination. The skimmer chamber is approximately 12 by 14 and currently
holds an ASM G2. While I like this skimmer I have a quandary.
<OK> The cabinet is only about 23-24 inches tall and the cabinet trim
and the sump height make it difficult to do cleaning and maintenance.
<All too common my friend.> In addition, when I set the sump water
level at 8-9 inches I have a lot of microbubbles. When I elevate the
water level, the bubbles subside but the skimmer doesn't function well.
I cannot elevate the skimmer within the tight height of the cabinet.
I have decided to rebuild the sump with a shorter longer sump tank to
maintain capacity but make maintenance easier. I would like to replace
my skimmer with a shorter model, making maintenance, and perhaps
elevation, easier. However I know that in general tower height increases
efficiency. <Yes, but it is just one factor.> Do you have any
recommendations on skimmers which support a 150 gallon capacity with SPS
coral standards but which fit in a shorter environment? <Quite a few
out there. Many of the Becket type skimmers are shorter and will serve
you well. For my money in this situation it is time to look either the
AquaC EV line or the ATI Bubblemasters. Both are great skimmers in short
packages.> Thanks in advance. John / Fishnu <Welcome, Scott
V.> Re: Good short
skimmer, sel. 1/28/09 Thanks Scott. <Welcome.> Any
recommendation under 20"? <The Aqua C EV120.> What do you hear
about Turboflotor 5000 Shorty? <It works fine, a descent skimmer. But
for my money the AquaC is the way to go. Scott V.>
Re: Good short skimmer, sel. 1/28/09 Thanks Scott. Hadn't
looked at the 120. I like the cup drain and the ball valve.... I had to
mod my own ASM G2. This will give me SPS quality skimming for < 100
gallons? <Oh yes, definitely. A fine choice for your setup.>
Skimmers FYI Hi Jim, I would highly recommend the Vertex
skimmers. They have been on the market for about 6 months now, but the
research that was put into them is excellent. They will run circles
around a EuroReef in terms of skimmate pulled out as well as overall
efficiency. They make two different models that would fit in your area.
The first one is the IN-80, which is recommended for systems from
40-80gallons, and the second one is the IN-100, which is recommended for
systems up to 100gallons. Here is the link to the skimmers…..
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Category_Code=Vertex
Just for the sake of giving you another option, you can check out the
Octopus Extreme 160. This is a great skimmer as well, and will fit into
your dimensions you are working with. However, you could spend up to
$100 more on this unit over the smaller Vertex. Here is a link to that
item….
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=CV-EXT-160&Category_Code=Octopus
In the end, the Vertex is going to offer you by far the most bang for
your buck. Let me know if you have any questions and I’d be more than
happy to help. Thanks, Jeremy Premium Aquatics, Inc.
www.premiumaquatics.com
Skimmers with intake dispersion chamber 1/4/09 Good morning:
Lately, I have noticed several makes of skimmers with a chamber inside
the skimmer housing that I assume is to disperse turbulence. <It is
the idea.> I was just wondering what the new line of thought was on
this. I thought contact time was an important issue when skimmer
performance was concerned, and this seems to be going against that.
<Should not really affect contact time.> I need a new skimmer and
thought I should make a informed decision. <Well first from the
perspective of design, these plates can make things tough. An improperly
design diffuser plate will just funnel all the bubbles together, ruining
the bubble quality. But when done correctly they can lessen the
turbulence within the body while maintaining bubble quality. My point
is, just because there is a diffuser plate does not mean it is a good
thing (or bad). Combine this with a look at skimmers like EuroReef
that use no such devices and are held as on of the best around, for good
reason. A feature to not base a buying decision on IMO.> Thanks for
your time. Cecil. <Welcome, Scott V.>
Re: Skimmers with intake dispersion chamber 1/4/08 Thank you
ScottV. <Welcome.> I don't I understand what you mean by a
correct or incorrect design on the diffusion chamber although I do see
the inference to what it would do to the bubbles. How would I know the
difference? <Reputation of a skimmer is probably the best. Short of
that trying the thing! There are a few skimmers out there I have seen
using these things where the bubbles merely collect together into larger
bubbles to pass through the plate. It is just a marketing add on in
these cases.> I've read a lot about EuroReef here. Kinda seems they
are in short supply unless I'm looking in the wrong places. <You
won't find them sitting there in your typical LFS in many cases. They
can be ordered through an LFS dealer or online quite easily.> I
really don't see the advantage in recirculating skimmers as while you
may be injecting more air, the models I've seen require a drop in supply
volume. <Another feature that will not hurt anything, but by no means
is a necessity.> Is there a real advantage over a venturi which moves
slightly more or less water with slightly less air? <No IMO,
although many will argue this to the death! A properly sized skimmer in
a well maintained system will do just as well.> Please give a path to
follow in general if possible. <Really, for what you get for the
buck your basic EuroReef like a RS-80/RS-100 or even an AquaC EV120 are
going to be hard to beat here. If you are interested in the bubble
diffuser do also look at the new Vertex line of skimmers. I have seen
these in action quite a bit lately, very impressive build and
performance for the price.> I have a heavily stocked 65 gallon tank
but have another 40 gallons running around in a sump, refugium, and aux.
aeration chamber. For years I've had a Kent skimmer which has been
passable but I want to update without listening to : "Oh so you got a
new toy for the tank", from you know who. So I don't think a Deltec is
in my future. Thanks again. Cecil <Welcome, Scott V.>
Natural filtration Vs mechanical 1/3/09 Hey Crew!
<Hello> I am an active member on a reef forum and was asked to get
some information about which overall is better, natural filtration such
as Caulerpa, Chaeto, seagrass, mangroves, DSB, ATS or mechanical
filtration such as skimmers or canister filters. <A combination of
both is best in my opinion.> I have looked and looked and can not
find any research data on this subject. I understand that if one was to
use a skimmer rated for twice the water volume of the tank, it would be
better than a handful of mangroves, however, what if there was a
combination of natural filtrators that are being used, would they be
better than a skimmer? <Personally I think a skimmer is the single
most important piece of equipment there is for a tank, and would not go
without one. However I put very little faith in their size rating, going
more with overall quality.> For example, in my system, I have a 55g
reef with 80lbs of Caribbean LR and a 1.5" sand bed. The 55 is looped
into a 40g plant tank where I have 20 mangroves, a 5.5" DSB, and
Caulerpa and some Halodule wrightii. Then, the 40g plant tank runs into
a 20g sump where there is another 30lbs of LR rubble. I personally did
not run a skimmer for 8 months and did not see any negative affects
because of this, however I also do not have a heavy bioload. <Most
likely the low bioload is mostly responsible, and not to belittle your
accomplishments, but 8 months is really too short of a time to determine
if your methods will be successful in the long run. I don't mean to say
you will not continue in your success, it’s just tough to draw
conclusions at this point.> I understand each system is different and
each person finds the way that works for them. <Very true, but I will
add I think most all tanks will benefit from a skimmer.> If one had
the space, would it be better to have mechanical or a more natural means
of filtration? <Well, if a baseline of a skimmer is there, I think
many tanks can benefit greatly from macroalgaes, turf scrubbers and the
like, often more so than some other mechanical means such as canisters
and HOB filters which can be maintenance nightmares. My only concern is
with some macroalgaes which can be quite aggressive chemically and
effect corals and other invertebrates, and even fish life if proper
water changes are not done.> This is assuming the mechanical
filtration is rated for twice the water volume of the tank it is
filtering. <Again I don't put much stock in these ratings, but a
quality skimmer is worth much more to your tank than one of poor design,
to the point where perhaps the skimmer is not doing much for you at
all.> There is someone on the forum who runs an ATS and swears by it.
If an ATS and DSB are utilized together can they together be as good as
a skimmer rated for twice the tank volume? <Not in my opinion, I
would rather remove the organics completely from the water column than
sequester it in algae.> I am looking for data that states something
like "in a 5 hour period a skimmer can collect ______ amount of _______
and in a 5 hour period a 3 lb patch of Chaeto can absorb ____ amounts of
_______. <I have never come across data such as this, very little
scientific studies are done directly for the hobby, although you may
have some luck locating such data as it applies to food stock
aquaculture.> Sorry if it seems I am being picky, but any and all
info will be much appreciated! Thanks for your time! -Elliott
<Sorry I don't know of any quantifiable data such as what you are
looking for, and can only go by the collective experience of myself and
friends in the hobby. Unfortunately there is little to no scientific
research done of ornamental fish keeping, which is sad for the livestock
in our care, but great for the many forums on the internet, where even
the most ridiculous theories are often touted as truths. In a world
where money decides what research is done, there just is not enough of
it to justify good science for the hobby.> <Chris>
Euro-Reef RS-250 too large? 12/27/08 <Hello Todd. Minh at
your service.> I have a 75 gallon reef tank with a pretty heavy
bio-load. I am adding a sump system to address an elevated nitrate
issue. <Increased water volume via a sump addition will most
certainly help with nutrient dilution. Likewise, increased foam
fractionation will also help your cause. Some other methods you may want
to look into include algae-growing refugium or GAC (granular activated
carbon).> I just bought a new protein skimmer, which is a brand new
Euro-Reef RS-250. I got a great deal on (less than $250!). I know it
is an overkill, but do you think I can make it work if I use a large
sump (ie 75gal)? <Although this skimmer is rated for "+/- 250
gallons with medium bioload" according to Euro-Reef, it is hardly a
scientific figure. Out of all of the manufacturer recommendations I've
read on various skimmers over the years, the best has been from Tunze
and can be applied to any skimmer in any environment. Here is an
excerpt: "In addition, due its biotope composition, every marine
aquarium has a different sensitivity with respect to the organic load.
Based on a standard marine aquarium with soft corals, the data on the
suitable skimmer size may differ in other biotopes. For this reason, the
aquarium volumes recommended for the skimmer should be reduced in case
of sensitive biotopes: -Low sensitivity In soft coral aquariums
with long-polyp corals and anemones, for example, the share in dissolved
organic matter may be higher, sometimes it may even be vital. In this
type of aquarium, the recommended aquarium volume can be used without
deduction. -Medium sensitivity A medium organic stability is
usually found in mixed aquariums inhabited with soft and stone corals
(LPS). Filter-feeding animals, sponges, et cetera, are found there
frequently as well. For these aquariums, a reduction of about 40 per
cent of the skimming capacity is calculated. A skimmer for 1,000 litres
(264 US gal.) should thus be used for an aquarium of about 600 litres
(159 US gal.) which has this kind of reef design. -High sensitivity
Aquariums with primarily small-polyp stony corals (SPS) require an
especially high degree of purity. They should have no load of phosphates
or nitrates worth mentioning. Good oxygen saturation and very clear
water are the pre-requisites. Comline DOC skimmer is also often used as
a �stand-alone� solution in these aquariums. This type of aquarium
should be reduced by about 60 per cent in volume for the skimmer volume
mentioned. -High sensitivity and high load Hard coral aquariums
with a high population of fish require an extremely high skimming
capacity. The skimmer has to ensure the degree of purity for the hard
corals at an above-average high fish load. If the Comline DOC skimmer
has to operate as a �stand-alone� solution here, a high performance is
required. This type of aquarium should be reduced by up to 70 per cent
in volume for the skimmer volume mentioned." Armed with that
information, you should ask yourself what kind of biotope you are trying
to achieve and its sensitivity and bioload. Then you can make a decision
on whether this skimmer is overkill for your particular set up.> Or
should I resell it and use the proceeds to buy a more appropriately
sized skimmer? <A practice that was common years ago but no longer
used by contemporary reefers is running a skimmer part time. This is an
option if you opt to keep this skimmer. Putting a skimmer on a timer
will keep efficiency of the skimmer the same while giving you control
over its productivity while cutting down on power consumption.>
Thanks so much for all your great help. <You're welcome. Cheers,
Minh Huynh.> Which
Skimmer? 12/24/08 I am in the process of starting my tank
back up from scratch (long story that I won't get into now). I just
ordered a new skimmer. It is a Hydor Performer 700, do you know anything
about these skimmers, or should I cancel the order and an AquaC skimmer?
<I have indeed seen these in use, they are fine skimmers, will work out
ok.> My tank will be 125 gallons with a 55 gallon sump. What size
AquaC if this is your recommendation? <An EV 180.> Thank you
Shane Robinson <Welcome, Scott V.>
Re: Which Skimmer? 12/24/08 Thank you for the reply.
<Welcome.> Would you recommend the aqua c over the other one or would
I be safe with the Hydor? <The AquaC skimmers are great, but so is
this new Hydor. You will be fine, satisfied with what you have ordered.>
sent using my wireless device Shane Robinson <Scott V.>
I'm afraid I've gotten the wrong size skimmer... 10/6/08
Hello everyone, First off I'd like to say how helpful this site has
been to a newbie like me setting up her first reef tank: keep up the
great work! <Great! Thank you.> Anyway, I have something I'm
worried about--I fear that I've gotten the wrong size skimmer for my
tank. My tank is 150 gallons and will be an LPS and fish reef. I'm
planning on starting with fish first, but I know I'm going to want a
reef sooner or later, so I planned ahead and so far have gotten most of
my equipment. The skimmer I bought is an in-sump H&S A150 rated for a
210-gallon tank. Recently I've read elsewhere that you should choose a
skimmer rated for four times the tank volume--and if this is correct, it
means I really should have gotten a skimmer rated for a 600 gallon tank.
This makes me a bit nervous--I'm afraid I've fallen into the trap of
letting the salesperson talk me into something just to make a sale. What
do you guys think? <This four times volume is referring to the flow
through of the skimmer, not the tank size rating. The recommended flow
through is sometimes one, two, ten, it is quite an arbitrary number
depending on who is stating it. The idea is a slow enough flow to
achieve a decent dwell/contact time inside the skimmer. You will control
this number by your selected feed pump for this skimmer.
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/skimmerfaqs.htm and the above linked files
will shed some light on this and other skimming aspects.> If I need
to get a different skimmer I'll do it--the health and well being of my
future aquatic friends comes first. Any advice on this would be much
appreciated. <The skimmer you have chosen is fine, good quality.>
Sincerely, Shannon O'Rourke <Have fun with your new venture, Scott
V.> Re: I'm afraid
I've gotten the wrong size skimmer... 10/8/08
Whew!! That's a relief! Thanks so much, Scott! I'll follow the link you
so kindly sent me and do some more reading on skimmers. Thanks again!
Shannon <Great, happy to help out. Talk soon, Scott V.>
R7: Natural Reef Tank? – 10/01/08 Hi, Eric- <<Howdy Sue>>
Marine Depot who sells the AquaC Nano told me that it would not fit the
BioCube. <<Okay>> He told me it would not be worth buying the one
Oceanic makes for the BioCube. <<I am in agreement>> Oceanic
emailed this is a limewood type protein skimmer. <<Yes, a simple
wooden-airstone (Limewood) driven skimmer. That’s not to say this
style/methodology doesn’t have merit, but the diminutive size of the
skimmer in question (8.5” tall) renders this methodology less than
efficient here>> A different brand is offering a venturi type
skimmer to fit inside—almost same expense as the AquaC. <<Mmm…Anthony
was always fond of stating that “good things are seldom cheap, and cheap
things are seldom good.” Almost certainly true when choosing a “quality”
skimmer>> So, what he suggested was to skip the skimmer and do more
frequent water changes. <<Easy enough on a 29g tank, sure…but, will
you?>> The modification required would be to redo the lighting system
and forgo the top completely. <<One possibility, yes>> I won't be
able to get that done as I need to repair the lighting on the 75 first.
<<Understood>> Just see how one thing led to another--no wonder I
cannot get anything else done. <<Priorities…take on that which is
“needed or necessary” first>> This is fun however. Sue <<Ah,
excellent…no worries then! EricR>>
R8: Natural Reef Tank? – 10/01/08 Eric, <<Sue>> Still
on the search of a protein skimmer. The only way that the AquaC Nano
would work is to take the top off of the BioCube. <<Mmm, likely the
top could be “machined” to allow it to fit…assuming someone was “handy”
enough and had the tools for such>> I agree with this however this
means adding another light fixture. <<Yes>> So this is very much
down the road as far as purchasing the new light. <<Okay>> I have
plans so will start to save for the items I need. <<Very good>>
Without being able to use the AquaC Nano for several months, I could
purchase a Tunze 9002 or a SRE protein skimmer that will fit into the
BioCube as it now is. <<The Tunze would be an excellent choice,
though comparable in price to the AquaC Nano…I haven’t heard of/don’t
know what the second unit is>> These both are about the same price as
the AquaC Remora. Both run differently. I think the Tunze 9002 will work
more like the AquaC as far as technical methods of protein skimming.
<<Are “similar,” yes>> And, I think the SRE is similar to the venturi
method. <<Hmm…I can’t find any info re>> These would be a bit to
purchase both new lights and protein skimmer. Once I have the lights
I can run the tank open. So that gets to the fish who jump out. With an
open tank I would assume that to be a hazard. <<Some fish are indeed
jumpers, but most reef hobbyists in my experience do run their systems
“open” as you say. With the Pseudochromis as the only fish in the 29g I
think the likelihood is very low that it will “jump”>> Is there some
way to build a sort of fence around the tank so that the fish could not
jump over that height. <<There are some strategies that can be
employed…have a look here and among the associated links:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/canopyrat.htm >> I have a plan now but it
will take some time. So for now I could..... 1. just do small daily
water changes which might lead to burn out <<Actually…weekly
(10%-15%)will probably be fine considering the low fish load>> 2. buy
the cheap Oceanic product for the next couple months until I can save
up the money for the AquaC and the Nova Pro 20-inch T5 lights.
<<Nah…save your money>> 3. buy the Tunze or the SRE protein skimmer,
forgo the AquaC completely. <<Okay, Now I’m confused…since the AquaC
Nano is actually about $13 less than the Tunze 9002 on Marine Depot’s
site>> What guidance can you provide with the above options? <<As
stated>> Still leaning to eventually get the Nova Pro 20 inch T5
lights as that would fit nicely over the tank. <<Okay>> As, I
think the current lights at least not in winter cause the tank to be on
the warm side, and no heater! Sue <<EricR>>
R9: Natural Reef Tank? – 10/02/08 Eric, <<Hello Sue>>
So all in all I agree with what you are telling me. The problem is that
I am not handy, have no tools to cut into the back of the BioCube to get
the AquaC Nano, and apparently I would have to so some similar work for
the Tunze. <<You do realize the AquaC Nano is a “hang on the back”
style skimmer, yes? The “body” of the skimmer stays outside the tank…you
only need enough clearance for the pump feeder pipe and the overflow
lip…though looking at the BioCube hood assembly, this would still
require cutting away a portion of it to fit the Nano skimmer. Have you
checked around for a local reef/fish club? These are great sources of
info/assistance. You might even try asking at your LFS for
assistance/advice>> So while the prices are all the same, I am not
able or able to find people to help. <<Mmm, okay>> My youngest
daughter was very ill last year, we are now scanning her every 3 months
(she is 16). <<I’m sorry to hear>> I would be hard pressed to do
or even remember to do a water change or make sure water is made and so
on. <<…?>> I would feel more comfortable purchasing a protein
skimmer while not the best perhaps but one that will function adequately
keeping the bio-load down as well. <<The skimmer is no replacement
for routine maintenance…and purchasing a crappy skimmer “just to have
one” is false economy>> I mentioned the SR3 protein skimmer which I
mixed the 3 and the E when I read that skimmer. This is available from
Pet Solutions and indicates it fits into the area in the back of the
Oceanic BioCube. <<Ah yes…I see now>> The price is still expensive
as the Tunze 9002 and AquaC Nano. <<Indeed>> However, I have no
adjustments to make to the top. This is a big plus for my situation,
<<Understood… While still not “my” first choice, this skimmer is
undoubtedly much better than the Oceanic offering for this tank>> as
well as having a protein skimmer running should I need to take less care
of the tank--although I can get someone from the LFS or one of my older
kids (used to work at the LSF that is how I got into the hobby,
inherited my son's tank when he went to college). <<Good…best not to
neglect lest problems develop>> So, this protein skimmer is the
venturi type. It actually looks like a CPR Bak-Pak with the blue
biomaterial which I wouldn't use in the picture below. <<Not
surprising…considering the same manufacturer builds both. The picture
you mention didn’t come through but I have added a link to the skimmer
(http://www.petsolutions.com/Default.aspx?ItemID=46307581) >> Cost is
$169. <<Seems “too much” to me>> So all about the same. <<As
the other skimmers mentioned, yes>> This is not made by Oceanic as I
was told by Oceanic whom I have been in contact with about the ballast
and feet for the other tank. <<The SR3 is made by CPR…same as the
Bak-Pak>> So, while I may end up down the road being able to purchase
the AquaC Nano it seems just too much right now to find a handyman to
come in and make a spot for it out the back. <<Okay>> Tell me what
you think of the SR3 protein skimmer--will it do even if not the best
recommended for the same price? <<I don’t have first-hand experience,
but have heard the very similar designed Bak-Pak skimmer does a
reasonable job (though for the same money, much better skimmers can be
had). Considering your circumstances, perhaps this is your best choice
for now>> It will mostly be a couple years before I can purchase the
light and run the tank open if at all possible. The SR3 is an in-sump
skimmer with a narrow footprint that makes it perfect for small sump
spaces and fits inside the middle chamber of sump section of the 29
gallon Oceanic BioCube aquarium. Skimmer features a dual return chamber
and underwater return to effectively remove excess bubbles. Skimmer
includes a side mounted venturi pump (Rio 600). Rated for aquariums up
to 60 gallons. Skimmer measures 8½" x 3" x 12", with a height of 16½"
needed for removing the collection cup. Meanwhile, I am having a little
trouble keeping the alkalinity up in the BioCube. The pH is falling way
to low to 7.8. I use a Kalkwasser mixed with water drip in the other
tank and when I do this for the little one the pH comes up but does not
stay up. <<The new setup is still finding its “balance”… I would not
dose the Kalkwasser on this 29g tank, the seesaw effect you are creating
by doing so is going to tax the system greatly…and I really don’t think
this tank needs such supplement based on current stocking. Replenishment
of bio-mineral/alkaline content should be easily done via partial water
changes>> Whereas the larger tank is stable in the parameters, albeit
after my last water change algae is growing in a spot. (used RO water).
When that happens, I usually just weed the algae like a garden. I cannot
say in the past 6 years we have not had our times with algae we have,
but not very often. <<Is a “natural” component of any reef system>>
Ok, so what do you think about this venturi if I cannot locate anyone to
come in and help with cutting out a square to fit the AquaC? Sue
<<Way too much money for what you get, in my opinion…but will probably
be “OK” on this tank… Cheers, EricR>>
R10: Natural Reef Tank? – 10/02/08
http://www.freshmarine.com/cpr-protein-skimmer-sr3.html So this is
similar to the CPR Bak-Pak after all. <<Indeed so>> This is what
we used setting up the 75 and still have it on. Took out the blue
material and seems to work for the most part pretty good. Sue
<<Then perhaps…problem solved! Be chatting, EricR>>
Skimmer Ratings 9/29/08 What is the best skimmer on the
market? <Depends on what is considered “best”? Price, size, actual
effectiveness!> I am looking @ AS 150 Warner Marine and RS 135
Euro Reef, I have a Tech Series 90g Tank. <Either of these will work
fine, they even use the same pump (although to Warner uses a Sedra 7000
vs. 5000, negligible with these particular pumps). I looks as though the
Warner is a recirculating skimmer, whilst this particular EuroReef is
not, so it really comes down to how you want to set up your tank. Scott
V.> Re: Skimmer
Ratings 9/30/08 Is the AS 150 more effective than the RS
135? I was told the Warner is a more effective skimmer than Euro Reef.
What is your opinion? <I have never personally tried these head to
head. These are both top notch skimmers, you will not go wrong with
either. Scott V.>
Skimmer for 47 gallon reef 8/22/08 I have a 47 gallon reef tank
that is currently running with a Prizm Skimmer. I don't feel that this
skimmer is sufficient, and I am considering purchasing a Prizm Pro
skimmer. I would really appreciate your opinion of the Prizm Pro on a
tank of 47 gallons with moderate bio-load. It can be purchased for $160,
but it is not so much the price I am concerned with, I want good
skimming, and I hear from some people anyway, that it can be obtained
with the Prizm Pro. <It can work fine, so can the regular Prizm. The
issue with these skimmers is the need to constantly tweak the thing to
keep it skimming, they are just a lot of trouble.> Some people love
it, some people hate it. I know that a lot of people speak well about
the AquaC Remora, but is the Prizm Pro such a poor performer as what I
have read? <Considering they cost about the same, you need to know
the Remora is in a whole different class. You will set the cup height
and from there all you do is clean out the nasty that collects in the
cup.> Thank you for your input, Jeffrey Castaldo <Welcome,
Scott V.> Protein
Skimmer, sel. refugium plumbing mostly 8/13/08
Hello Everyone, <Ramon> I have a couple of questions about a
protein skimmer for my system. <Ok> My tank is a 55 gallon (not
drilled), with a 2 inch sand bed (adding 2 more inches) and 2 15 gallon
Rubbermaid containers. 1 is a refugium and the other is a sump.
<Nice> I am planning to upgrade my refugium and sump with two 20 long
or two 30 gallon drilled tanks, I also want to know if I stay with my 1
inch gravity return line how large should I have my feed line drilled?
<For what you can get practically through this one line, I'd run all
consecutively through both sump, refugium... first the 'fuge... I'd make
two overflows if you're drilling... run one each independently to...>
How far down from the top and should it be level with the return line?
<Two inches and yes> the platform is only 18"w by 24"l by 13 1/2"h
which the bottom of the platform is sitting level with the tank, it
would gravity feed to the main tank, so I was wondering which tank would
be my best bet? <The bigger the better> I plan on staying with my
55 for a long time and not upgrading. it will house some fish with
mostly button polyps, mushrooms and leathers. I was wondering if the
Aqua C Urchin series would work for my set-up? <Of a certainty,
yes... a very good choice> or should I get another type of skimmer?
It will sit in the sump and budget is tight as always. <Save up...>
Thanks Again, Ramon Ortiz Tampa, FL <Bob Fenner, Kona, HI>
ETS Sump Buddy 40, Skimmer sel. 8/11/08 Hi Crew,
<Kevin.> I'm wondering if anyone at WWM has heard any buzz on the new
ETS Sump Buddy skimmer series
[http://www.superskimmer.com/SumpBuddy40.htm]. ETS skimmers seem to have
the reputation for being great skimmers but at a premium cost. <I
have seen them, they are good skimmers.> However, looking at the
suggested MSRP for the Sump Buddy’s on AETech's website, this new series
seems to break that tradition. I don't know if the product is just too
new, but I haven't been able to dig up very much information in the way
of opinion (no hits at all on WWM). I would think with ETS' reputation,
coupled with a reasonably price product, there would be more inertest in
these units. I’m currently looking at the AquaC EV 120 and Euro-Reef
CS100s for my 58 gallon reef and would really like to know how the ETS
Sump Buddy 40 stands up. <I really can’t help you too much here. The
ETS is a good skimmer, but so are the other two you mention. You really
will not go wrong with any of these choices. Pick what suits your sump
and wallet the best!> Thanks, Kevin <Welcome, have fun, Scott
V.> R6: Skimmer
Height...Looking For a Short Skimmer with Tall Expectations - 08/11/08
Eric, <<Hey Jeff>> I have just one more to run by you. <<Okay>>
Have you ever heard of ETSS Evolution 500? You can find it on this
page:
http://www.customaquatic.com/customaquatic/itemdetail.asp?itemid=PS-AE05EV
Please let me know; I am about ready to pull the trigger. Oh yes, I will
couple this with a Mag 9.5. Regards, Jeff <<The downdraft-style
skimmers are reputed to work well by some (usually the BIGGER the pump
the better), and this particular manufacturer is thought to provide a
quality product from what I know. But I find these skimmers to be a too
noisy for my liking (at least in the larger models)…and I haven’t seen
one I thought did as good a job as a high quality needle-wheel skimmer
like my Euro-Reef model. But, that’s not to say this skimmer wouldn’t do
a good job for you…I just feel the Euro-Reef, AquaC, or Tunze to be
better choices. Bottom line…any of the skimmers we have discussed will
very likely work fine for you…so do weigh features such as ease of
cleaning and power consumption/pump requirements before you pull that
trigger. Eric Russell>>
<Well-stated. RMF>
Skimmer Height…Looking For A Short Skimmer With Tall Expectations –
08/08/08 I am setting up a 120, and height between the bottom
of the tank and the floor of its cabinet stand is a consideration.
<<A common issue>> I would appreciate any recommendations for a
good proteins skimmer in the 200+ gallon capacity that can
comfortably fit in a height of approximately 23 inches.
<<Mmm…”short” of going custom [get it? <grin>], I think your best
option is the EV-180 from AquaC at 20” tall and 180g capacity>> I
am saying 200+ gallons to give some leeway, and perhaps get better
skimming. <<Understood>> If however anyone knows of a shorter
skimmer with slightly less capacity, that would do a great job in
this size tank, I am more than willing to consider it. <<Ahh…then
do have a look at the AquaC product line>> I have been searching,
but I find that the larger capacity scammers are taller than the
lower capacity ones. <<Indeed… Taller skimmer towers = increased
dwell-time = increased efficiency/capacity…all things being equal>>
Thank you very much for your help. Best regards, Jeff Castaldo
<<Quite happy to share. Eric Russell>>
Re: Skimmer Height…Looking For A Short Skimmer With Tall
Expectations - 08/09/08 Eric, <<Jeff>> How about the
Euro Reef CS8-1 Protein Skimmer? <<My current fave skimmer
manufacturer…I employ a CS12-3 on my own system>> - 150-400
gallon capacity - 20" high - 8" diameter - Includes 1x5000
Sedra pump I have heard that Euro-Reef is a very good name,
<<Tis true!>> but I don't understand the 150-400 gallon figures.
That's a large stretch. <<Has to do with stocking density (i.e. –
a lightly stocked 400g tank)>> I do want something that will do a
super job on my tank, and I saw one of these listed used for a very
attractive price of $200. Which would you go with? <<Euro-Reef
is my current fave…but considering your cabinet limitations, your
wishes for future upgrade, and this “particular” skimmer…I would
likely go with the AquaC choice (also an excellent skimmer line, by
the way)>> Regards, Jeff <<Cheers mate. Eric Russell>>
R2: Skimmer Height...Looking For A Short Skimmer With Tall
Expectations - 08/09/08 Eric, <<Hey there Jeff>> I was
also thinking about this one; ASM G-3 Protein Skimmer with Sedra
5000 Pump. - Body size: 6.5 inches - Height 24” -
Footprint: 11”x12” - Tank size: 250 gal <<is a “cheaper”
version of the Euro-Reef skimmers (cheaper materials)>> I think
that I can fit this in even though it is 24" in height. <<Okay>>
I would have to tip it in the sump to empty and clean, but I am
going to go with a 20 gallon Sump for space restrictions in my
cabinet, so I may just have to work under tight conditions. What do
you think? <<It “will” work (and likely very well)…it just won’t
last like the Euro-Reef or AquaC skimmers>> Regards, Jeff
<<EricR>> R3:
Skimmer Height…Looking For A Short Skimmer With Tall Expectations -
08/10/08 You know Eric, the more I look at this skimmer,
<<The AquaC…>> the more I like it. <<Is a very good product>>
It has a very small footprint which will fit great with my smaller
sump. It does not use a Venturi or downdraft, but rather employs a
Spray Induction System. <<Yes>> Is this good technology in
your opinion? <<Yes… Though to be honest, I’m partial to the
needle-wheel technology>> Has it been around for a while or is it
relatively new and unproven? <<The “technology” is not new…its
application to skimmer methodology was effectively applied by Jason
and Steve of AquaC some years back. And aside from an excellent
product, they excel at customer service…I do not think you will be
disappointed>> Regards, Jeff <<Do let me know what you
choose and how it performs in your estimation. Eric Russell>>
R4: Skimmer Height...Looking For a Short Skimmer with Tall
Expectations - 08/11/08 Okay, I will keep you informed. Thank
you for your input. Best regards, Jeff Castaldo
<<Excellent! Be chatting, EricR>>
R4.5: Skimmer Height...Looking For a Short Skimmer with Tall
Expectations - 08/11/08 Eric, <<Jeff>> What do you
think of the Tunze 9010? Regards, Jeff <<Ah yes! I should
have thought to mention these fine skimmers in our first exchange.
I’ve not used their skimmers on any of my own systems (yet) but saw
these skimmers in use (albeit an earlier model) while living in
England and thought them to be quite impressive, especially
considering their relatively small size. EricR>>
R5: Skimmer Height...Looking For a Short Skimmer with Tall
Expectations - 08/11/08 The MSX200 was also recommended. What
do you think of that one? Regards, Jeff <<Hmm, I’m not
familiar with this skimmer but it looks like a less expensive
version of the Bubble King line of skimmers (sans the Red Dragon
pump)…interesting. It too would probably work fine. Eric Russell>> |
skimmer question, sel. 8/3/08 Hello Crew, Thank
you so much for your time and expertise. Unfortunately I did not find
you and Mr. Fenner's book sooner. I have a one year old 92-gallon corner
reef tank (without a sump) and am using Eheim Canister filter. I do
frequent water changes (recently changed to 10% weekly to 5% twice
weekly after reading an article on your site) and I routinely run at
zero ammonia, nitrates and nitrites. Before I discovered your site, I
was following the advise of my LFS who recommended that a protein
skimmer is optional and did not suggest using one as long as I could
keep up with my weekly water changes/maintenance. Because of my lack of
information at the outset (not for lack of trying unfortunately), I find
myself in need of a protein skimmer; however, I do not have room for
adding a sump and I don't think I will have the room for a hang on
skimmer. <Mmm, the tank can't be largely drained, moved away from a
wall?> I have read that you usually don't advise an in-aquarium
model. <Correct, most of these are too "puny"... but... there are
some "tank top" models... Do look into the Tunze brand... expensive, but
well-made, service-able> I also have a small amount of space in the
cabinet below the aquarium to store a skimmer but have not found any
information on what model to use or how to accomplish this. Can you tell
me what you would suggest? <Mmm, reading usually. You have read the
tray/section re skimmers?> I've read a lot on this site and others
and am having trouble finding something that would fit my needs. Thanks
for your help!!! John <... well, if it were mine, I'd look into
installing a sump/refugium... placing the (in-sump) skimmer there...
Otherwise... Tunze...
http://tunze.com/... Bob Fenner>
Re: skimmer question, sel. 8/5/08 Thank you sir for
your generosity. I'm a bit embarrassed that when I checked the amount of
space that I have and double-checked the Aqua C hang on skimmers that I
do have enough room. <Ah, good> I am very interested in a
refugium. I have small children; however, and a "tank" low to the ground
terrifies me (even with locks - at least for the next few years).
<A good idea... not much that might hurt someone... if the electrics are
placed elsewhere, out of reach... but I would fashion child-proof
locking of some sort to keep all closed off in/under the stand> I
have seen some small (about 5 gallon) hang-on sumps and was hoping
for your thoughts on those. Thank you again! <Mmm, for a 92 gallon
main system... these are a bit puny... but still worthwhile... Were it
me/mine however, I'd read, look into a larger under or over tank unit...
FWIW, you might consider the possibility of remoting this even to an
adjoining room. Bob Fenner>
Bio Filter/Protein Skimmers 7/9/08 Hello WWM Crew, <Hello>
I am having a really hard time deciding on which Bio Filter/Protein
Skimmer System to go with. CPR Bak-Pak 2 with Bio Bale, or the Remora
Aqua C unit. I have a 30 gallon tank with live sand and rock. I am
currently running a Penguin 350 with both bio wheels removed (filter
pads only). I have read the pro's and con's of both units, but I would
like to get advice from somebody who is not trying to take my money$$$$
Thx <Both are good units, however I would go with the Aqua-C, better
performance and easier to use.> <Chris>
Protein Skimmer confusion!!! 7/2/08 Dear Crew, <Hello>
I'm in the process of setting up a 65 gallon saltwater tank which
will be moderately stocked with fish and lightly with corals. Over
the last month or so I have acquired just about everything that I
need to get going except a descent protein skimmer. The tank has
been up and running for about 2 weeks now and is well into the
cycling process. About a week or so ago I decided to start looking
at hang on the back skimmers (no sump for a while). As I'm not
overly familiar with them I was talked into a Prizm skimmer which is
on the tank currently. As you are probably already thinking, I
didn't do the necessary research before purchase..... I now have
plans to package this one up and return it in the next couple of
days. <It does not have the best reputation.> In the meantime
I have attempted to once again seek out a skimmer that is not hugely
expensive but will still provide good skimmate, is not likely to
overflow all over my carpet and is, I can't stress this enough,
QUIET! The Prizm sounds like someone is constantly grinding pepper
in my office and I can't deal with it. <All make at least some
noise, is the nature of the way they work.> I know that this
question is merely a matter of opinion but yours is one that many
people seem to trust. I'm very excited that I've come across your
site it looks excellent! <Thanks> Thanks for your time and
please help! Sincerely, - Chris D. <My favorite hands down
id the Aqua-C Remora line. However there are other alternatives, the
CPR BakPak is a decent skimmer, along with HOB models by Tunze and
Deltec. One of the realities of skimmers is that you get what you
pay for, so bargain models usually give you bargain priced
performance. Also see here for more on some of the more commonly
available models.
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/ca/cav1i1/protein_skimmer_impressions.htm
.> <Chris> Re:
Protein Skimmer confusion!!! 7/2/08 Thanks so much for the
reply! <Welcome> You guys seem really awesome over there and
seem to know your stuff. <There is a ton of collective knowledge
for sure.> I have been checking through your site a lot, I wish
that I had come across it sooner! I have been contemplating the
AquaC with the Maxi-Jet 1200 as my next purchase. <That’s what I
use and love it. You may want to go with the Pro model with your
tank size.> Seems that nearly everywhere I look it has gotten
great reviews. I hope that it will do as well for me as it has for
so many other people out there. As this is my first experience with
skimmers I do have a couple additional questions. <Ok> And if
you have the time to answer them I would greatly appreciate your
input. I saw that you mentioned all skimmers make some noise and
this I'm OK with . However this Prizm seems to be somewhat obnoxious
in a quiet room. It's not so much the sound of the pump but just its
over all process. If I were to go with the AquaC would you think
that it would be easier on the ears? <Mine kind of hisses if that
helps.> Would it be more pump noise that I'd be listening to?
<My pump is silent.> Also, I have noticed that with some other
skimmers especially the Coralife there is a chance for flooding of
the room. I've even heard of some people losing as much as 1/3 of
the water from their aquarium. I'm concerned about coming home one
day to find my carpet drenched and my wife ready to kill me, lol.
Would something like this be a concern for the AquaC? <Not that I
can see, if the cup starts to overfill it will flow back into the
tank.> Again, thanks for your time and input. I'll be sure to let
everyone I know that's in the hobby to check out your site!
<Thanks> - Chris <Chris>
Re: Protein Skimmer confusion!!! 7/2/08 Oh and also should I
be worried that it will add to the temperature of the tank? Thanks
again! <It will not add a significant amount of heat.> <Chris> |
Skimmer Selection – 05/24/08 Hi BOB, <<EricR here…while
Bob frolics ‘mit de Frauen’>> Need your opinion. <<Have plenty of
those>> 125 gallon FO tank…20-30 gallon sump. Which skimmer would you
go with? PM Bullet 1 or AquaC EV 120 <<Either will do fine… But
the AquaC will be easier to service in my opinion…and knowing Jason and
Steve from AquaC, and the level of care/customer service they provide,
the latter skimmer would be “my” choice. EricR>>
Skimmer Upgrade? 5/10/08 I currently have a 125 gallon
reef tank. The water currently flows downstairs into an Aqua C EV150
skimmer and then into a 58 gallon refugium filled with live sand 6
inches deep and it is full of Chaeto algae. The skimmer is in an
acrylic box inside of the 58 gallon tank and water flows through
this first, and then through the Chaeto. It then flows down into a
sump (28 gallon trash can) and it is then pumped it back to the main
tank with a mag 18. Circulation is provided by a Sequence Dart pump
on a closed loop. <Sounds nice!> The tank has been set up for
about a year and I have a problem with some course wire like algae
but otherwise it looks great and the corals are growing like crazy.
The tank has 6 Green Chromis, a BlueBand Goby, A 12 year old Clown
fish, <Wow!> and a 8 year old Yellow Tang. Lighting consists of 3
175 watt 10,000k halides with 2 20 watt Actinics. I change 16
gallons of water weekly, and top off with Kalkwasser. I converted 2
smaller tanks into this larger one last spring and love it but want
the extra volume and security of a larger sump. <Larger never
hurts with sumps.> I am upgrading the size of the sump to 75
gallons and was wondering if the additional volume would call for a
larger skimmer? Since the bioload is the same I would think that it
would not require additional skimming. <Your DOC’s will be
diluted a bit more, the skimmer sizing has more to do with the
volume of water it can process more than anything. A larger tank
does not require a larger skimmer to functionally skim what passes
through, it requires a larger skimmer to have the ability to process
enough water to accommodate the volume in the tank. But, all things
considered you do have a fine skimmer for your system.> I figure
the total volume of water in the system will be around 180 to 200
gallons. <Nice.> My thoughts are that as long as the bio-load
doesn't change then the skimmer should not have to. The Below is a
picture of one half of the tank. <Nice tank.> Thanks, Aaron
<Welcome, have fun.> | <<nice!
-Sara M.>> |
Skimmer Upgrade? 5/10/08 Thanks for your advice.
<Welcome.> The reef tank is doing great and Wet Web Media
made it all happen. <Thank you, I will pass this around!>
I spent days reading the articles and FAQ here prior to setting
it up. I was a little concerned about the Blueband Goby since
there are articles on here about them not eating well in
captivity but he eats from my hand and seems to be thriving.
<Great!> I tend to keep my fish around a long time and wanted
the same for him. Keep up the good work guys. Aaron <Will
do, thank you, Scott V.> |
Protein Skimmer/Selection 4/23/08 I was looking at the Octopus
skimmers and haven't found any comments about it on your site. I was
wondering what is your opinion about it and where does it stand in terms
of quality. <I'm not familiar with this skimmer.> A local aquarium
in Richmond VA says it's one of the better brands. <Mmm, he must sell
them.> Trying to find the right skimmer for my 90 Gallon. My ASM
skimmer doesn't seem to be doing the job and the people at the aquarium
said ASM's are a hit and miss brand. Thanks for your suggestion.
<Myself, I believe the ASM's are a decent performer. Do you clean the
reaction chamber and riser tube weekly. Waste build up in these areas,
especially the riser tube, greatly affects performance. I'm partial to
AquaC skimmers, a good value for the performance it renders. James
(Salty Dog)>
Skimmer Ratings 4/5/08 I've got a question about skimmer ratings.
I'm starting a 120 gallon SPS tank and need my skimmer. I know I should
go with a skimmer that is overrated for my tank to keep SPS. My question
is, do these ratings assume there is no other filtration besides the
skimmer? <No, all tanks need at least some kind of biological
filtration also. Either some sort of biomedia or live rock.> I am
planning on a sump/refugium that utilizes macro algae for nutrient
uptake. Could I get away with going with a skimmer that is rated for 120
gallons or slightly larger, instead of going nuts and buying that is
rated for over 200 gallons? <A skimmer rated for 120 gallons will
work fine. Do study the skimmer size ratings between different
manufacturers in relation to the skimmer size, air draw and type
(injector, needlewheel/venturi). Some manufacturers have fairly loose
ratings, rating a skimmer much higher than it should be. EuroReef and
AquaC are two skimmer manufacturers that I feel rate their skimmers
correctly. Good luck, Scott V.>
Can I go Skimmerless? 4/4/08 Hello again Crew, <Random
Aquarist> Well, I've started reading up on skimmerless systems. My
tank is an 86g (48"L x 16"W x 26"T) with a 35g sump. My lighting is a
pair of 250W MH bulbs, actinics, and moonlight LED's. My tank has
recently finished cycling. I have roughly 150 lbs of liverock and am
thinking about incorporating a DSB. I plan to stock the tank entirely
with macroalgae (either Chlorodesmis or Dictyota), a BTA, and a pair of
Maroon Clowns. I'm also going to buy a detritivore kit and an amphipod
kit (separate culture) from Inland Aquatics. <Carful with these kits.
They generally include way too many critters, especially hermit crabs
for long term sustenance of the cleanup crew and other inhabitants of
your system.> I'm really interested in the skimmerless concept. If I
kept the proper maintenance, could I make this tank a skimmerless one?
<You certainly can, but a skimmer is a tool that makes things easier for
you. Any system can be kept without a skimmer, it is just more work. For
what my time is worth I would never run a marine tank without one!!>
TIA, Random Aquarist <I have included a link for you below that
goes through why to skim and the advantages of doing so. Welcome, Scott
V.> http://wetwebmedia.com/toskimornotfaq.htm
Pacific Coast Imports Protein Skimmers 3/26/08
Hello crew, <Hello.>
I writing to find out if you guys have any knowledge or opinions on
protein skimmers by Pacific Coast Imports. The model I'm inquiring about
is PS-350L, which can be seen here:
http://www.pacificcoastimports.com/products.cfm?pg=2&sid=54151142K43755152308002K1206485854177I163T230T7T6P21865745Z95708&c=24&kys
<I have used one of these. To be perfectly honest, I would consider a
different skimmer, perhaps an ASM or EuroReef. The Pacific Coast is a ok
skimmer, I just feel the other two are better choices. Good luck, Scott
V.> What
Size Skimmer Do I Need? – 03/24/08 Great web site, <<Glad you
think so>> Google got me here. <<Excellent>> I am new to this
and would like to ask you a question or two. <<Okay>> I have a 90
gal, 30 gal sump. Can I buy a skimmer Euro-Reef ES8-3 or is this too big
for my 90 gal? I will eventually be getting corals, live rock and fish.
<<This skimmer will be fine for your tank (factory rated for a 175g
system); I always like to go a bit bigger than the size rating for my
systems. But unless you already have a lead, finding one may be
difficult as the ES series of Euro-Reef skimmers have been discontinued
by the manufacturer. Not to worry though, a comparable RC series will do
fine too>> I also looked at AquaC Remora Pro. <<Another fine
product/choice…though if there’s a chance this tank will be heavily
stocked, I would be inclined to get the in-sump model EV-120 (or maybe
even the EV-180) over the Remora Pro>> What should I get, you really
know better? <<Euro-Reef is my current favorite, but either of these
brands will serve you well. The choice is yours; perhaps pick the one
that best fits your system. And do read through our articles and FAQs on
skimmers/selection…you can start here, and then follow the links in blue
at the top of the pages: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/proskimrart2.htm >>
Thanks your help will be appreciated. Juan C <<Happy to assist.
EricR>>
Protein Skimmer Selection 2/9/08 I have read the WWM protein
skimmer section's and still have questions. <OK> I am running a 90
gallon FOWLR system with 150 pounds of live rock. It runs into a 30
gallon long sump which has a refugium with macro algae in the middle. My
intake chamber ( where I plan on putting the skimmer ) is 8" x 12" with
a 29" clearance. What reasonably priced skimmer with a pump would you
recommend? <For this footprint an AquaC Urchin Pro or the Tunze
mentioned below would be fine choices.> Right now I have a sea clone
100 which pulls gunk but I don't think is good enough by all I have
read. <It is not the greatest skimmer.> Would you recommend the
Tunze 9005 with the 9005.400 in sump conversion kit? <Yes, highly
recommended, as is the Aqua C mentioned. Both companies make top notch
products.> I don't quite understand how this model works, whether it
has a pump or not. <Yes it does, it is an all inclusive plug and
play unit.> Or would you recommend the E.T.S.S. Reef Devil Protein
Skimmer with Pump? <This could work also, although it will likely be
louder and consume more power.> Thank you for your time. John
P.S. I am married and don't want to sleep with the skimmer. My loving
wife (who doesn't understand the addiction yet) has agreed to allow me
to spend around 300 dollars. <Welcome John, all of the above come
within your price range. My wife is constantly going through the same
thing, “I swear this will be the last tank.” Yeah right! Good luck,
Scott V.>
Sump-less skimmer, sel. 02/03/2008 Hi there! <<Hi,
Andrew here>> I am new to salt water and need some advice. I have a
90 gallon corner aquarium, (1/4 cylinder), that came with a Fluval 405
plumbed into the bottom of the tank. The stand is the same shape as the
tank and has a supporting divider in the center, leaving two small
triangular spaces that are too small for a sump. The tank has been up
and running for 2 months, with 120 lbs. of live rock and 75 lbs of
crushed coral. Lighting is T5 HO. Water movement by 2 powerheads. Live
stock includes a Pajama Cardinalfish, Coral Beauty Angel, Fox Face, 2
scarlet skunk cleaner shrimp, snails, hermits, a small feather duster,
mushrooms and a few soft corals. <<Sounds lovely>> Water
parameters are all pretty good and all the livestock are doing well. I
would like to slowly add a few more fish and corals, but I feel I should
add a skimmer. As I stated before, there is very little room in the
cabinet for a sump, and the tank fits quite tightly to the walls (1.5"),
so a hang-n won't work. <<Ahh yes, many people run into this issue
with this configuration of tank stand and some choose to add a sump
outside the stand and have it as a display sump>> I have heard about
D & D Marine Enterprises Terminator II skimmer that comes with a
sump-less kit. With the kit it supposedly works like a canister filter.
Before I shell out the money, I would like to know if you are familiar
with this skimmer, and if so, will it do the job for my system.
<<Yes, these work well indeed, basically the same as a canister filter
and will work fine with your system>> Thanks, Lance <<Thanks for
the question. A Nixon>>
Tunze 9010 For A 200g Reef? – 01/15/08 Hi, <<Hello Marcus>>
I have just setup up a new 4 x 4 x 2 reef, upgraded from a 4 x 18” x 2.
<<Neat!>> I am using my skimmer from my last tank which is a<<Tunze>>
9010, which I was pretty happy with. <<I too like Tunze skimmers>>
I am copping a fair bit of flack in my build thread about how undersized
this skimmer is for a 200g reef. <<Really? Hmm, even though your new
tank specs out at about 239-gallons (actual true “empty” volume depends
on the thickness of the panel material)…the Tunze 9010 has a “usage”
rating of up to 264-gallons>> What is your opinion? <<I saw many
of the “classic” Tunze skimmers in action overseas years back, and well
before similar quality skimmers were available in the States...they were
awesome. I don’t have any direct experience with the new Comline
skimmers like the 9010, but have heard positive comments from others… I
suspect you/this skimmer will be fine>> Should I consider upgrading?
<<Is up to you, but I would probably wait to see how this skimmer
performs with the new system>> I am only stocking with a medium to
light load of LPSs/sps and fish, with a pretty open aquascaping.
<<Still…best to plan/install filtration components for a “heavy” load,
in my opinion. Even when we plan for/know better…we sometimes can’t help
adding “just one more fish”>> If I upgraded to a 9015 or even the
foaming cup for the 9020, how much of a difference would this make,
given that, other than the collection cup and chamber height, the
skimmers are exactly the same? <<Hmm, the 9020 is a “double” unit,
though the 9015 does appear to be identical (air/water flow
specifications) to the 9010 but for the size of the collection cup…which
may indicate the smaller unit is just as efficient on larger tanks (i.e.
– can handle the same “bio-load”) but is limited by the amount of
skimmate it can process/hold before needing attention. In other words…if
you’re willing to empty the cup more often, the 9010 should serve as
well as the higher capacity-rated 9015 on larger systems>> Many
thanks, Marcus <<I do think your Tunze 9010 will serve your new
system…but, give it a try first and see what “you” think…you can always
upgrade or add a second skimmer at a later date if necessary. Regards,
EricR>>
Skimmer Selection 1/15/08 Crew, <Joe> I am currently
setting up a 210 gallon sps tank and I <Ah, another broken shift key.>
am trying to make a decision regarding my skimmer. I know this is one of
my most important pieces of equipment so I <I> don't mess this up. I
don't really have much sump space so I <I> am looking for a external
skimmer. I like the EuroReefs but for my application I would need the
RC-500 which is like 1200 bucks. I was wondering if there is a good
skimmer that won't cost me a grand. I have been looking at the Lifereef
brand of skimmers, in particular the VS3-36. Jeff from LifeReef talks a
good game about his skimmers and says he would put them against a
Euroreef anyway. So I would like to know if you have any experience with
Lifereef products? Also, if you don't like Lifereef what skimmer model
would you recommend? If the expensive Euroreef or similar is my only
option to keep the high water quality I will need so be it, but I want
to know for sure before I spent the money. <Joe, no experience with
Lifereef products but I hear they are quality products and have heard no
negative feedback on them. As for other brands of skimmers that would
work well in your tank, this would be my choice list. AquaC EV240
(around $400) Precision Marine PM Bullet 2 ($400) Tunze Master DOC
Skimmer, comes with two hydrofoamers and rated for tanks up to 1000
gallons, pricey, but an excellent skimmer. Keep in mind here that there
are no pumps to buy.($960) ASM G-3 with a modified Sedra pump. ($310)
Hope this helps you out.> Thanks for the help. <You're welcome.
James (Salty Dog)> Joe
Tunze Skimmer Protein Skimmers: Bigger is Better? 12/16/07
Hi Bob and Crew, <Scott F. your Crew Member today!> Thanks for all
your previous help and advice. <You can't imagine how much fun it is
to be of service to our fellow hobbyists! We have some amazing people
here and we love this stuff!> As before, I am in the process of
setting up a 850L (690L Cleair tank 160L sump) mixed fish and invert
system. I have very limited headroom in the sump area max 50cm. After a
lot of searching I have found what I believe to be a potentially ideal
skimmer. Tunze DOC comline 9010. <Fine product from an excellent
manufacturer!> My question is, do you feel that this is a good choice
for my water volume or would you lean towards the 9015. In the future, I
would like to invest in MH lighting to allow me to add coral (currently
not an option with all the other new stuff I have to purchase). With
this in mind, and notices on the Tunze site about running bigger
skimmers for reef systems, I would rather invest in a system that will
cover my future needs. Thanks and Regards Steve <Well, Steve, I
am of the mindset that "bigger is generally better" when it comes to
skimmers! This philosophy does not always work with other things
("bigger" chocolate soufflés, large bottles of sauerkraut, "deluxe"
carry on luggage, etc!), but it generally works with skimmers (as long
as you don't go overboard), IMO. I like the 9010, but if you plan on a
heavily stocked reef system in the future, the extra capacity of the
9015 will justify the additional expense, IMO. Tunze products are
fantastic, and I use a number of them on my system with great results.
Hope this helps! Regards, Scott F.>
Low(er) Cost in-Sump Skimmers and reliability
In-Sump Skimmers Of Quality – 12/07/07 While you review several
hang-on skimmers for low-volume systems, I've found myself at a complete
loss for a skimmer suitable to my system. <<Hmm…with the better
manufacturers (Euro-Reef, AquaC, H&S, Schuran, Tunze, others) the
manufacturers recommendations are a good guide>> I have a 125 glass
system with overflow to a 50 gallon sump, actually my former tank
drilled. There's usually at least 30 gallons down there, though I let it
fluctuate a bit. I've found a fairly hands-off approach to be immensely
successful. I haven't lost a fish or coral in approximately six months.
<<Very good…but do realize this time-frame is but a fraction of the
natural lifespan, for most. True success will be measured in years, even
decades>> The skimmer from my old tank, a Coralife rated for a 65
gallon tank, was woefully inept, <<Not surprising>> and in any
case broke during the installation. I need a skimmer capable of handling
this system. <<Several come to mind>> I need a couple brand names
that are reliable, that I could perhaps pick up used. <<Have listed
several above…will take some work on your part to find the “used”>>
There's a huge number of brands out there with no explanation or
history, and most of what's there has conflicting reviews, claims of
incredible skimming prowess followed by several scathing denials of its
usefulness. <<Ha-ha, indeed! And will tell…Euro-Reef skimmers are my
current fave. I have an old-model CS12-3 running on my 500g (en toto)
reef system>> When I worked in a LFS, which fell apart due to the
owner's insanity and Xanax abuse, <<…!>> we used large scale "G"
skimmers, big effective things that sat in tubs and sump and produced
mountains of the foul smelling stuff we all know and love. <<Ah
yes…for the most part a cheaper version of the ER skimmers>> Enormous
collection cups made management easy. I'd like a few recommendations on
what's solid, as I'd hate to blow a few hundred bucks on something as
trashy as my old Coralife. <<Euro-Reef gets my vote…nor do I don’t
think you would be unhappy with the price/quality of an AquaC either>>
Hey, they make good PCs, they must know what they're doing on skimmers
right? Wrong. <<Mmm…>> While I probably won't pick up new,
scouring Craigslist and eBay for a cheap second hand is in my budget,
and I'd like to know a worthwhile deal when I see it. Thanks! Eric
Jackson <<Happy to share. Eric Russell>>
Re: Sump design question 12/07/2007 Hi Bob and thanks so much for
your response. <Welcome> It's an honour to get advice from such an
eminent expert. <Hah! Expert... Previously married and flow under
pressure?> A quick update to a couple of the points raised in my
first mail. I found the Tank for £1000 from a UK supplier "Shirley
Aquatics" not sure if I can give the name out? <Oh yes... a
venerable institution in my estimation. Do you have a copy of Colin D.
Roe's work from there? Excellent> The side filters were removed
(simple in tank affairs) also all the other (little) extras were not
included. <The "towers" can be re-made, fitted, installed... other
walls/overflow weirs made, put in> I took delivery today and it looks
spectacular (though I feel it will still be some weeks before my
existing stock can move home). I have followed your advice and yet
again gone back and read and read some more, I also purchased your book
"The consentience Marine Aquarist" in order to recap on setup
techniques. <A handy guide> Lastly I have read much more about
the Copperband and will not be purchasing one of these. I have no
interest or intent in keeping animals that do not have a very high
chance of survival. Finally to my questions (I promise much shorter
intro's next time :) ) As previously stated space under the tank is
at a premium with a max head height of 50cm. Although I am not
completely settled on the sump design (I will start with an empty sump
and check the transit volume requirements before adding any baffles) my
biggest issue is the choice of protein skimmer. I have read about many
advised makes and models but fundamentally come back to height issue
every time. <Yes... important... you might well want to incorporate
some loops of flexible... even valves and disconnects... to enable/allow
you to pull this tool out at times> My feeling is that I will need to
run two smaller skimmers as a single unit for around 200 UK gal (inc
sump volume) just isn't possible. <Mmm, actually... there are some
units that should fit here... Do see EuroReef's site...> Also the
outlet from the main tank runs at 1.5? dia. What size return pump would
you advise? <The diameter of the discharge on your pump/s volute/s...
Just match this> Thanks again for your assistance. Regards
Steve <Certainly welcome. Bob Fenner>
Re: Sump design question, skimmers in the UK 12/07/2007
Bob, Thanks for your swift response. I have searched the
EuroReef's site but am unable to identify any under 50cm. I further got
in touch with them who again responded very quickly only to inform me
that they do not ship abroad and have no pumps that run on UK voltage
240V. I would welcome any advice on a quality skimmer meeting height
restrictions of 50cm and tank volume of 200 UK gal either from yourself
or any readers who have experience. Thanks again and regards Steve
<Mmm, the V2 line through TMC?
http://www.tmc-ltd.co.uk/aquarium/v2skim-skimmers.asp BobF>
Skimmer Advice, sel. 12/4/07 First off let me say that I
have been reading endless info off of your site, thanks so much.
<Hello Chris, the site does provide a seemingly endless amount of
knowledge.> However, I am a newbie and my mind is going quite mad
trying to decide on certain aspects of my new tank. I currently have a
46 gallon fish only and am in the process of upgrading to a 150
reef/fish. Basically I want to be set up for what ever I wish to keep in
the tank, to avoid need upgrades later. <Understood. Plan now, don’t
have to change everything later.> So I am currently stuck on deciding
on a skimmer, I have been going back and forth on my choice of skimmer
and my multiple LFS's have all been telling me different things.
<Everyone does have their own opinion on skimmers.> I think I would
like to keep the skimmer and pump external from my sump as I don't want
the added heat from the pump, living in Southern California it remains
pretty hot most of the year (unless you all think that the recommended
pumps for any given skimmer wouldn't add much heat to a 150 gallon).
<A skimmer pump will add some heat, varies by model.> I have read
that pumps should provide 1 - 1.5 times your water volume, giving that I
would need a pump around 2GPH 9about 20 watts or so). <This would be
a feed pump for a recirculating skimmer. 150-225 gph in this case. The
skimmer itself will have an additional pump.> Then again I have read
some skimmers come with pumps like MAG 5s or even MAG 7 which puts our
much more wattage. <This will be the actual pump that drives (and may
feed) the skimmer its self.> So I guess the pumps are relative to the
skimmer, some need more GPH than others. <Some do, but feed pump vs.
skimmer pump is another issue.> So far the top choices I have heard
through research are Euro-Reef (which seems way too expensive for the
externals for my budget), <Nice skimmers, highly recommended.>
Aqua C (looks like a good choice), <These work well, they can be
plumbed outside the sump.> ASM (although I heard it is just a cheaper
euro-reef knock-off). <Yes, they perform well, definitely an in sump
model.> ETSS (seems to much work to keep dialed in). <These work,
more of a fan of your other candidates.> What do you think? Your
help is greatly appreciated. Thanks. -Chris <If you have the
money, the EuroReefs are hard to beat. The other skimmers are work more
than adequate. It just comes down to what you want and can get a deal
on. Best, Scott V.>
Re: Skimmer Advice, sel. 12/4/07 Thanks for the quick response. I
do have a couple of follow up questions. 1) If I go with an in-sump,
then I do not need a feed pump, I only need the skimmer pump (which
should only put out 15-20 watts, which should not increase the heat in a
150 gallon much at all), true? <More in the range of 40-60 watts for
the least power hungry skimmers in your lineup of appropriate size.>
2) What is the best technology these days (e.g. Venturi, Aspirating
(impeller), Downdraft, Spray Induction)? <I hate to dodge the
question, but that really depends on your criteria for “best”. I prefer
a venturi with a pinwheel myself (EuroReef, ASM).> I would obviously
like the quietest best performing skimmer as affordable, would any of
the skimmers I listed fit that profile? Again, thanks for the assist.
–Chris <ASM for price, EuroReef for higher quality. Note that the
EuroReef size ratings are more appropriate. Both are fairly quiet.
Welcome, good luck, Scott V.>
Skimmer for 150gal FOWLR Choosing a Protein Skimmer That's a Winner!
12/4/07 Thanks for all your wonderful advice. <We're happy to
bring this site to you every day! Scott F. in tonight> I know I've
seen leaning towards the EuroReef and the Aqua C. What suggested model?
S <Well, Scott- either of these two manufacturers make fine protein
skimmers. I've used many different brands over the years, including some
ridiculously expensive ones, such as Deltec, etc., and I keep coming
back to Euro-Reef. They build a wonderful product at a great price! What
model really depends on what your bioload is, how large the aquarium is,
etc. I'd consult the manufacturer's web sites for sizing
recommendations. Best of luck! regards, Scott F.>
Skimmer choice 11/29/07 Hey guys <Hello Matt.> I have a 400
liter reef with a Turboflotor 1000 protein skimmer which I’m not happy
with. It only pulls about 1 inch of dark green stuff every week. I have
2 clowns, 3 snails, 8 very small unidentified hermits (can't find ID
anywhere, but they do a great job of cleaning the sand of diatoms), and
1 coral. The tank is 2 years old and I have just noticed some hair algae
starting to appear. I want to replace the skimmer. The two I like the
most are the AquaC Remora Pro and the Deltec MCE600. The Deltec is more
expensive but I believe it comes with a built in pump(?). <Yes it
does.> Whereas the AquaC does not come with a pump. Any thoughts on
these 2 choices of skimmer? Thanks in advance. Matt. <They have
both been proven great skimmers, hard choice. This comes down to your
personal preference. With the AquaC you will have a pump in your tank.
If this bothers you then that may be your deciding factor. For the money
I would personally choose the Remora Pro. The skimmer should help, but
don’t expect a cure all for the hair algae, something is spurring its
growth. You can read through the FAQs for more info, I would start here
http://wetwebmedia.com/algaeconMar.htm Welcome, happy reefing, Scott
V.>
Seeking Urgent Skimmer Advice I have a problem, and need your
help. <Okay> It would seem that I made a slight mistake when I
built my sump. The skimmer zone is too deep, at least according to
the fine folks at Corallife, who makes my skimmer. I noticed this
week that the skimmer collection cup was filling quickly, even at
the lowest setting. I assumed I my pump was too high in the water,
<...uh, no> and caller the manufacturer to verify that theory.
They indicated that the skimmer itself sits too low, and there is
"not enough resistance." <Okay...> I am not certain what this
means, but here's what I *do* know. There is not enough clearance on
my rack to allow me to lower the sump, or to raise the shelf the
skimmer sits underneath. What this means is I have an exceedingly
tight space with which to work, and raising the skimmer is not
possible. <... rats!> Additionally, hanging on the side of the
tank is also not an option due to clearance issues. Damn! Here
are some photos. Is there anything I can do, perhaps to mod this
thing that will make it work? There's always SOMETHING....
<Really... not here with this skimmer, stand, sump... the best will
be to switch to another brand/make of skimmer... Sell the one you
have on eBay, Craig's List and get an AquaC... you'll be MUCH
happier. Bob Fenner>Re:
Seeking Urgent Skimmer Advice >> Is there anything I can do,
perhaps to mod this thing that will make it work? >> There's
always SOMETHING.... > Really... not here with this skimmer,
stand, sump... the best will be to switch to another brand/make of
skimmer... Sell the one you have on eBay, Craig's List and get an
AquaC... you'll be MUCH happier. Bob Fenner< Happy is relative.
Maybe... <Mmm, can be... though in my working def.s of such, the
terms love, beauty, goodness and happiness... and truth are
sensorially linked... the first being the expression of truth, the
second its semblance, the third its quality, the last its
feeling/realization...> This will be tough to swing financially.
I own a small HOB skimmer by AquaC and have been a bit disappointed.
Is there any reason why you would choose that particular brand?
<Their in-sump models are worthy... See here:
http://wetwebmedia.com/aquacskimrfaqs.htm and the linked files
above. BobF> | .jpg)
|
All-in-one: Solution or Problem?...
protein skimmers, Uniquarium 11/03/07 <Greetings, Charles.
GrahamT with you today.> First of all I would like to thank you for
being such a great resource. <Excellent, yes. This place is a haven
for some, refuge for others. Helpful to all, we hope! (...ramble on, G)>
I had marine tanks in the late 1960s and 70s before live rock and
protein skimmers. <Much fun! Glad to have you back...> My
question for you is that I have recently purchased a 125 gallon marine
tank. It is a Uniquarium <Never heard of it... Some research turned
up a website that was last updated in 2003. Not a good sign.> with
100 pounds of live rock. The problem <...Among others...> is that
the available space for the protein skimmer is exactly 4 inches by 6
inches and a height of 22 inches. <Not enough, really...> I am
currently using a Berlin airlift with so-so results. <These skimmers
are one of an earlier design. I believe they work very well with big,
tall columns of water, but not so great as a miniature, unobtrusive
skimmer.> It must be an in-tank model there is no room behind the
tank or below the tank. <That will be your problem here, I'm
afraid.> Can you suggest the best skimmer that will fit into the
available space. <Sadly, I think not. A 125-gallon is too large for a
little skimmer like that. (I run an old U.S. aquarium 4-ft air-lift
skimmer on my *20-gallon* FOWLR).> The skimmers that will fit are not
sufficient for this size tank. And the skimmers sufficient for this size
tank will not fit into the available space. <Well said.> I am
at a total loss. <I feel for you. My assessment of this setup is
less than favorable. I still think that the best way to go is with the
conventional - albeit clunky - remote sump setup. You have all the room
you design to have, and end up spending about the same. None of the
pictures of the Uniquarium were large enough to give me an idea of your
options, but I think they're limited. I think I would have heard of this
design if it was worth it's salt. Let me look at this another way, since
you own the system already. You could either keep the compliment of
species low, or you could plumb a sump. Speaking of keeping: you need
not use the bio-balls in the rear, if you add a few more pounds of live
rock to the display portion.> Thanks for your help. <You're
welcome, but I think I was kind of a bummer, rather than a help. Here
are some other opinions of the Uniquarium systems from other
contributors here on WWM. Just look for the word "Uniquarium".
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/skimsel9.htm
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/skimopmaintfaq13.htm Good luck and feel
free to write back if I was unclear or left anything loose and hanging.
-GrahamT>
Re: All-in-one: Solution or Problem? 11/5/07 <Hello
again, Charles. GrahamT with you again..> Thank you for your help.
<You are most welcome, friend.> The solution was so obvious, add more
live rock, remove the bio balls and use that area for protein skimming
and a refugium. There is more than enough space back there for a top
of the line protein skimmer. <Geez, I didn't even think of that.
Glad they left you some room somewhere!> I just hope this can be
helpful to anyone else who owns this type of aquarium. <Will
definitely be part of our archive, and searchable for anyone using the
keyword: "Uniquarium".> Again thanks. <Glad to help shine some
light, Charles. -GrahamT> |
Protein Skimmers, sel. 10/26/07 Thank you so much for you
web-site, it has a lot of good information, almost too much. <Thanks,
glad you found us, there is a lot of good information on the site. A
person could read hours a day and take years to sort through it all!>
One thing I have noticed is that almost all of the top brand skimmers
are recommended in one form or another, based on the question asked.
So I am sorry to take up your time but I think I am really confused.
<No problem, here to help.> I am planning a 110 gal reef tank with
about a150 lbs of live rock with a precision marine sump. The shop I am
working with has suggested a precision marine Bullet 1 skimmer. Would
you agree with this recommendation? I am looking for the best skimmer
that combines effectiveness, and efficiency as well as quietness.
<You will read many things simply because what constitutes the “best
skimmer” is a matter of opinion. The Bullet 1 is a great skimmer and
would be very effective in your set up. If the skimmer height is an
issue this skimmer or an Aqua C are good bets. If you want to
concentrate more on efficiency (power use) then I would also take a look
at the needle/pinwheel type skimmers (types like Euro-Reef, ASM and
others). Their pumps tend to draw less power to get the same tank size
ratings (you will also find the size ratings vary from manufacturer to
manufacturer). Quietness varies from skimmer to skimmer, even from
different sizes for the same manufacturer and will depend a lot on the
pump driving the skimmer.> Thank you, Peter A <Thank you Peter,
setting up a new reef is exciting and the best part is you can enjoy it
for years to come. Scott V.>
Skimmer Concerns, sel. 10/10/07 To whom this may concern: I
have been reading Wet Web FAQ's for about a year now and consistently I
see Aqua C Skimmers with positive remarks. <Yes, a good performer.>
Well I have 2 tanks, a 75 drilled with 30 gallon sump, 125lbs live rock
in main tank and about 30-40 in sump/refugium. I have 3 inch sand bed in
main and reef mud in bottom, Caulerpas and critters etc. Also, for
lighting on main tank is Current outer space doo hickey, real fancy unit
150wX2 HQI,4x t5, lunar lights. Currently I am using Coralife 125 super
skimmer (I bought this based on the advice of trusted LFS), decent
enough I guess but not for my set up as it has become painfully obvious
to me this device is rather ambitious in its rating. <Not familiar
with the Coralife Skimmers.> The other tank is a 15 gallon
high(20x12x18) standard. I have Rio Nano Skimmer on the tank as of now
and an Aqua Clear 50 Power Filter with Pura Complete and Poly filter as
media. I use distilled H2o, pH 8.2, nitrate is consistently up due to
weak skimming, phosphates are non existent at least all the hair algae
eats up the phosphates for me. I do regular 15-20% water changes every
week to 10 days depending on test results. My methodology is essentially
the same on both tanks, the same issues are in both tanks, high nitrate
5.0 by end of 7-10 days after water change. I have plenty of movement in
tanks, have extra power heads and a canister filter on the 75 filled
with only floss to polish water and for surface disruption with spray
bar return. I can see that my corals are alive but not thriving as they
once were mainly due to the jungle of hair algae that I scrub and siphon
seemingly to no avail. so I am looking for guidance as to what skimmer
and what methods should I use to rid my self of this hair algae and
nitrate nightmare. Please keep in mind there is too much equipment
to list and I do so many things with my tanks on an ongoing basis to
keep them as best I can. There is much I left out but that's is the
basics and it seems it isn't enough. <Dan, I guess my first question
is your bio-load, how many fish in these tanks. Excess nutrients in the
water is the primary cause of high nitrate levels. As for skimmers, the
AquaC is a good choice, reliable, hassle free, and reasonably priced for
it's performance level. Do read the links here along with linked files
in each. http://www.wetwebmedia.com/nutrientcontrol.htm
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/nitratesmar.htm
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/algaeconMar.htm thanks, <You're
welcome. Dan, in future queries, please do a spelling/grammar check. We
just do not have the time to edit before posting. James (Salty Dog)>
Dan
Re: Skimmer Selection 10/13/07 Thanks Salty Dog for getting back
to me so quickly. <You're welcome.> Apologies or misspelling and
grammar. Anyway in my 75 I have One Tomato Clown 2.5", one Blue Devil
2", one Bullet Goby 4", one Fuzzy Dwarf Lion 4-5", one Six Line Wrasse
2-3", one 8-9" Leather Toadstool Coral, and rather large 9-10" branching
Frogspawn Coral. The 15 gallon has two Ocelaris Clowns and a Pajama
Cardinal. The invert list is as follows one 5" Tridacna Crocea Clam, one
4-5" Finger Leather Coral, one Mushroom Anemone 1.5", Zoanthid polyps ,
Xenia , Yellow Gorgonian, one dying Open Brain Coral, and lastly one not
looking so good Branching Anchor Coral. I need to upgrade filters and
skimmers. any solid recommendations would be appreciated. My budget can
not abide $700.00 skimmers. I am looking to spend around $300.00 for
skimmer upgrade on 75 gallon; as for the 15 gallon I will go about
same. thanks again wet web crew. <Check out the AquaC Urchin and
Urchin Pro. Both fall in your price range and should do a good job on
your system. As for the 15 gallon, I think the Red Sea Prizm Skimmer
would do a very good job here. James (Salty Dog)> Best Regards,
Dan Possible
alternative Protein Skimmer – 10/01/07 Hi there <Good morning>
I would like to confirm if my logic on the following is correct. When
I started my FWLR marine tank I only used a canister filter for
filtration and had my system run for 2 years maintenance free. <Hmmm,
I'm not sure what you must mean by "maintenance free." Are you saying
that you have not cleaned your canister filter or done a water change in
two years? Eek, I hope not!> It is now only recently when I am
intending to start a reef system that I am reading a lot about protein
skimmers. I recall that my canister filter had the intake above my
air-stone (drawing air into the filter) which caused an effect of a
stream of fine bubbles being shot out at regular intervals and I found
this quite pleasing as an effect. I only now realize that this could
possibly have had a "skimming" effect and is the reason my system was
successful and managed a high bio-load. <I highly doubt this is the
reason.> Correct me if I'm wrong but in principle, if any canister
filter draws air in which is chopped up by the impeller and then pushed
through the filter material then this is effectively a protein skimming
effect? <I see why you're thinking this way. However, there's a bit
more to protein skimming than the production of a lot of bubbles. The
bubbles have to move up a column (leaving the water) and ultimately be
collected. What's happening right now in your canister filter is that
the bubbles aren't leaving the water. They're simply being created, then
diced up and forced through a mechanical filter. This doesn't allow the
mechanical filter to do anything it wouldn't otherwise be doing. Beyond
this, it's a bit difficult to explain, but I'll try. Protein skimmers
remove protein via the hydrophobic nature of many proteins (and/or their
hydrophobic appendages). The hydrophobic proteins "want" to leave the
water and the formation of bubbles (a water/air interface) give them
that chance, but only if the bubbles can collect somewhere out of the
water (i.e. in a skimmer cup). This is unlike mechanical and biological
filters which utilize very different methods for removal/conversion. The
filter of a canister filter won't remove any proteins using bubbles than
it otherwise wouldn't when not making bubbles. The proteins will simple
re-dissolve and move right through the filter again. The canister filter
doesn't act like a protein skimmer unless it can somehow REMOVE the
bubbles. Otherwise, it's just "teasing" the hydrophobic proteins, making
bubbles but with no where for the bubbles to go except back into the
water (even so through the filter).> If this is true, would it not
be a great alternative for the hobbyist? <I hope my explanation helps
you see why this is not the case.> Regards, Shaheen <Best,
Sara M.> Sanders PS.
Ozone Application 9/27/07 In your FAQs you mention the Sanders
protein skimmer as a cheap skimmer to inject ozone. I can't find that
available anywhere. Any links to where it can be purchased or effective
cheap alternatives? <Don't believe too many etailers carry this
anymore, probably costs more to ship from Germany than what they are
worth. Try these etailers for inexpensive skimmers to do your job.
www.premiumaquatics.com, www.drsfostersmith.com. James (Salty Dog)>
Skimmer Recommendations 9/20/07 Hi again, <Hello> Could you
recommend a good skimmer that is quiet? The one I have is noisy, but it
wasn't that expensive. <With skimmers you get what you pay for. For a
hang-on-tank type I would go with a Remora Pro most likely, although it
may be underpowered for your tank. Check out this excellent article by
Steve Pro for more.
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/ca/cav1i1/protein_skimmer_impressions.htm .>
<Chris>
Lots of odd 180 gal Skimmer, Pump, and Sump Questions
8/26/07 Hello! As always, thank you for this incredible service
you provide, it's the best help I've ever found. <Ah, good> I've
acquired my 180gal tank and stand for my new reef (YAY!) and I've
purchased a Coralife AquaLight Pro lighting system. I'm now beginning
the process of purchasing sump/pump/skimmer equipment. I have a few
questions though. The tank will have these main residents, plus a
couple more if I can find them. All these animals are in normal 55
gallon tank size-ranges, nothing is "huge"... yet: Galaxea Pagoda
Cup T. Crocea T. Derasa Finger Leather Mushrooms
Zoanthids 3inch Yellow Tang 6-line Wrasse Lawnmower Blenny
Diamond Watchman Goby Scribbled Rabbitfish (2 if I can find them)
<Yikes... they'll all appreciate the new digs for sure> *Skimmers:
I'm essentially sold on a Euro-Reef RS-180 skimmer. While perusing the
FAQ's on your site I've read questions on this skimmer with other 180gal
setups to which you guys have used descriptors like "plenty" and "more
than enough". <Is a good unit, choice here> 1.) What is the most
comparable Tunze model to the RS-180 and is there any reason to go that
route instead? <Mmm, not really IMO...> 2.) Are there any other
brands/models out there that I should consider looking at in the same
price range ($500 or less). Coralife maybe? <Again... I would go with
the Euro-Reef here> 3.) I'm "in" pretty good with the owners of one
of my LFS's. They had a used Red Sea Berlin skimmer (no idea what model)
that they were willing to sell me really cheap (doesn't seem to be
broken, and I'd need to get a pump). Does Red Sea even make a model
worth looking at if I'm thinking in the range of the ER? <Not in my
estimation, no> 4.) Are ratings on skimmers to be trusted? Euro-Reef
confused me by putting a "comparative rating" and a "realistic rating"
on their skimmers. Should I compare the RS-180 to other skimmers based
on the "up to 450gal" rating or the "135gal to 180gal" rating? <Some
of them... to be sure, yes... Folks "mileage will vary" and all depends
on definitions of suitability, what is being measured...> *Return
Pumps: I have an in-sump Eheim 900gph pump (don't remember the model
number) on my 55 that I was considering transferring to the new tank and
adding another exactly like it (one for each of the two return lines).
<Good brand, choice> 1.) Would one Mag Drive 24 (2400gph) be a better
route to take? <Not IMO, no> 2.) Any other recommendations on
brands/models? <Mmm, posted... in a size, shape system as this 180,
you're encouraged to look into internal pumps, possibly with controllers
(Tunze, Hydor...) or better, a contained "closed loop" arrangement...
Please read here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marsetupindex2.htm the
light blue tray> 3.) Are the "Pond Master" Mag drives the same thing
(LFS says they are and I'm skeptical)? <Mmm, quite... but... have
seen where at least the screws holding the volute on were different...
rusted> 4.) Is there any reason to use hard PVC as opposed to a
strong tubing on either the drains or the returns? <Some... as
posted...> Sorry for all the questions, but I don't have a Reef Club
or anyone knowledgeable enough locally to ask these questions to so the
questions build up... and then I turn to you guys. Thanks again,
Eric <I/we're very glad to assist you in your plans to design,
build, stock, operate your system. Bob Fenner>
Looking For A Skimmer Upgrade – 08/21/07 Hi crew, <<Howdy
Shaun!>> Shaun here. <<Eric here>> I've been using an AquaC
Remora for about a year on my 80-gal reef. <<A good skimmer>> I
have been adding frags like crazy, and I am pretty sure my bioload is
just too high for it anymore. <<I see>> I am going to set up a
sump and can't decide on a skimmer. <<Perhaps a larger in-sump AquaC
model>> After a week on your site I am compelled to buy an AquaC
EV-180 w/ a Mag7, or maybe an EV-120 with Mag5. <<Either would
suffice>> I am also thinking Euro-Reef RS-100 or 135. <<Mmm, I
have been to the Big Island with Jason and Steve from AquaC. I consider
them friends and believe their products are exceptional…but I have to
admit that the ER skimmers are my current fave>> What do you think
about the ASM knock offs of the ER skimmer? <<Function is very
similar…but the materials used in the construction are nowhere near the
quality of those used in the ER skimmers…thus the cheaper price>> I
was thinking about a G-2, or an Octopus. <<Youza gets whatcha pay
for…>> I have about 30-40 SPS frags and colonies in my tank, misc
zoos and 8 small fish. Any input or advice would be awesome. Thanks,
Shaun <<I’ll tell you straight my friend…if you have the bucks go
with the Euro-Reef product…else choose an AquaC skimmer…but you won’t go
wrong either way! Eric Russell>>
Please help! Skimmer sel. 8/19/07 thanks! Also, i was
wondering what skimmer you would suggest for my tank? <... posted>
the skimmers I've used in the past have all been quite disappointing!
Firstly a Red Sea Prism, which was noisy and inconsistent with its
skimming and now a V2 Skimmer from TMC which despite all my best efforts
is letting me down. Could you suggest a good, solid, no frills skimmer
that can do the job? I have no sump so it must be a hang on...hope to
hear back Clint Hamilton <Please read here:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/hang-onskimfaqs.htm And the linked files
above... Likely the Aqua-C Remora line... Bob Fenner>
DAS skimmer 8/3/07 Hello, I'm sorry to email you
with this question, but I can't seem to find any info anywhere. I'm in
the market for a new Skimmer nad I would like to know if you have any
opinions on the D.A.S. Ex-1 Skimmer? <Mmm, none directly, but am very
familiar w/ other hand...> I've searched your site and no such luck.
My stand is a bit small so I've had some trouble finding the right
skimmer that would work for me. I've heard some great things about it
and the setup would work perfectly. Just in case my fish tank is 150g. I
would love to know what you feel about it. Thank - you for your time.
-- Warmest Wishes, David
Bigger Marine Tank Coming...Which Lighting Choice? - – 07/25/07
07/25/07 Hi again, <<Hello Daniel>> Thanks for the answers
about lightning. <<Quite welcome>> I have one more question if I
can take few minutes of your time? <<Certainly>> Protein skimmer,
of course there are "hundreds" different brands on the market, but I am
thinking about "Euro-Reef RS-135". <<A great skimmer maker>> I
need really strong skimmer since my tank is gonna be BB. What do you
think about my choice? Regards' Daniel P <<I think you can’t go
wrong with a Euro-Reef skimmer…is my current favorite. EricR>>
Skimmer Problems/Selection 7/19/07 Hey Crew. <Hello Andy> I
have a question about skimmer selection. Currently, I have a Coral Life
Super Skimmer rated for 125 gallons. I wish I had known about WWM when I
was setting up my marine setup, because I would not have bought this
skimmer, although when functioning properly (more about this below) it
does produce a good amount of dark green skimmate. I have a 110g
display with 65-70lbs of live rock, one 4" Sailfin Tang, one 3" Brown
Combtooth Blenny (which is actually dark blue and my favorite fish), one
2" Gold Stripe Maroon Clown and paired BTA, one small Royal Gramma, 2
Cleaner Shrimp, 6 or so Hairy Green Mushrooms, a small Tree Coral, about
24 small hermits, and 12 Turbos (and a few small crabs that came in with
my rock). I intend to add only one more fish--a Canary Wrasse. Water
parameters are 0 for ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and phosphate, pH of
8.2, calcium of 400, alk is 3.5 meq/L, and temp 77.5*-80*. Lighting is
by 6 T5 HO (4 10,000K and 2 actinics). I recently added a 30 gallon
refugium (probably only holding about 20 gallons of water) with 40lbs of
fine aragonite sand, 4 lbs of live rock and Chaeto, with lighting by two
simple fluorescent grow lights on a reverse daylight cycle.
Filtration is via a wet-dry system with bioballs (which I will probably
eventually remove) and the above-mentioned skimmer (and the live rock
and sand). My skimmer's pump is housed in the sump, with the actual
skimmer sitting next to/outside my sump but enclosed in the cabinet. In
the summer months, I probably lose about 2 gallons of water per day to
evaporation (fueled in part by evaporative cooling using a fan)--I top
off daily with RO/DI water. I'm sure that, even at some minimal level,
the return from my pump (1250 gph Little Giant) is greater than the
in-flow of water from the overflow. I use a ball valve to control return
flow (tank is not reef ready), and I'm sure that the in-flow and
out-flow don't match up exactly. <That is why ball valves are needed,
not uncommon.> This is where my problem comes in. When the water
level in my sump is nice and high (4"+) (i.e., when I top it off in the
morning), my skimmer works very well. However, when my water level gets
low and starts to get close to the my skimmer pump intake (estimate this
level to be about 3"), my skimmer is pretty much ineffective. <There
are many skimmers sensitive to water level.> I have read in other
posts that the Coral Life skimmer is inefficient in this same situation
and WWM Crew have recommended that an alternative location be found for
the pump. Now, I realize that this skimmer can hang on the back of my
tank, but this setup it is REALLY an eyesore. The pump is huge and, in
any event, does not rest flush against the back of the tank (which I
could secure with a suction cup I'm sure). As you also know, this
skimmer has a separate bubble diffuser that sits in the tank into which
the output flows. Thus, this skimmer has a pretty large footprint that
is not pretty, to say the least. I tried to put the skimmer in or on my
fuge, but that doesn't work (water too deep and can't find a good
hang-on spot, respectively) and, in any event, I'm worried about
chomping up all my pods, etc. Is there a good skimmer with a smaller
footprint (and a reasonable price tag) that could work in my situation?
I think if I could get a pump that has a lower intake, that would solve
my problem. <If you decide to keep the skimmer, you will have to
incorporate an automatic top-off system to correct the problem. As for a
skimmer suggestion, I would go with an AquaC. These skimmers work by
spray injection and are not as sensitive to water level as your present
skimmer. Go to the AquaC site, www.proteinskimmer.com and email Jason
with your skimmer concerns/needs. He will be more than happy to assist
you. The Urchin Pro is probably the one I'd ask about. Should fit
your needs and etails for well under $200. with pump.> Also, totally
unrelated, but I'll save you the e-mail--the lighting from my fuge does
illuminate my display at night to some degree, as it sits on a separate
stand next to the tank. I realize that, in the real world, the moon
illuminates the reef, but I'm thinking that my illumination is probably
a bit brighter than natural moon light. Any thoughts on whether such
illumination can, in the long term, have an adverse effect on the
health/happiness of my fish/inverts? <Like us, fish do need rest. I
can't sleep with the lights on unless I've had a few too many beers.
Try putting a divider of some kind between the two during the night.>
As always, your insight is appreciated. <You're welcome. James (Salty
Dog)> Andy
Protein Skimmer Selection (HOTB) 7/11/07 Good day my
friends- <Hello.> I feel I must start out like everyone else and
state that you guys are my one stop "shop" for info. <Thanks.> You
never know what you get on the internet in terms of information but
without any doubt (easy sleeping at night ) you guys are the best.
<Appreciate the kind words, really we do.> Ok ok, here's my question
for the pros, please enlighten me. <Will do my best.> 46 gallon
bow, 20 pounds live rock, 15 pounds more on the way, DSB, 3 VERY small
green Chromis, 6 hermits, 5-6 assorted snails, fighting conch, the usual
small clean up crew. 2 AquaClear 30's powerfilter, Chemi-pure and bio
ceramic deals in each. <With the live rock, there really isn't a
need for plastic/ceramic bio-media. I would keep the powerfilters around
only for the occasional running of chemical media like carbon. Somewhere
down the road you might even consider replacing them for a hang on
refugium.> As you see, its in my plans so spend most of my money in
terms of filtering on my skimmer. <They are essential, especially to
the smaller system.> (and frequent water changes) <That's good
too.> I want the best, most efficient HOT skimmer. <The economical
choice is the Aqua-C Remora with the Deltec being the overpriced but
very high quality unit...in this situation I don't think you can go
wring with a Remora Pro though.> I'm not a fan of BAK-PAK. <It
has it's place but considering it's price, I'd almost always opt up for
the Aqua-C.> I don't know why, they're ugly, huge and have heard less
good things about them. What do you guys recommend. <See above.>
I'm leaning towards the Aqua C remora PRO with mag drive of course.
<Good.> oh-yeah...future plans....easy to keep mushrooms, maybe
pumping xenia, polyp colonies...that's it. <Simple, and that's a good
thing.> fish to add- mated pair clown, carpenters wrasse, pistol
shrimp and watchman goby combo...and maybe one more active, small,
peaceful fish if I can. <I have a thing for bi-color blennies in
small mixed-reef tanks.> if it matters I'm working with a 196w coral
life powercompact. <Just keep in mind they burn out very quickly,
lumen wise, for best results replace them every 6-9 months with 12 being
the absolute limit.> 4 bulbs in all....3 true actinics and one
10,000k . <I would go for at least two 10,000k bulbs if not three.>
What'da say on the skimmer choice. <Sounds good.> ALSO, what do
you think with my bulb selection for what I plan to keep. <Ooh I
touche don that already too, see above ^^^ .> You guys rock!! Could
there be a better website with so many people to help us out. NO! Your
#1 <Hehe, thanks, Adam J.>
Skimmer types... Not liking his AquaC – 07/03/07 Hi crew-
Thanks for a wonderful aqua portal! I have a CPR SR-4 in the sump of
my 75g reef tank. I am not sure about the efficiency of "Rejuvenation
Venturi Technology", as they call it, and have not been thrilled with
the nutrient export performance of this skimmer. Are these low-grade
skimmers? <Mmm, no, not IMO> I have been considering an upgrade to
a used Euro-Reef RS80. <Also a good unit, product in my estimation>
Any sense of how much better this unit might perform? <Perhaps a bit
better, but not a big difference> Got any advice for me? So long
(and thanks for all the fish) jimgray <Heeee! It may be that the
make-up of your system/water at this point has little to skim... Bob
Fenner... Not Doug Adams, but alive... and will gladly settle for the
difference>
How to
improve on Eheim filter / Red Sea skimmer set-up - 06/27/07 Dear
Crew Hope you are all well. <Thank you> I have been reading and
enjoying your pages as much as ever, but now I have to ask the 2
questions that have been bothering me since I started in the hobby 18
months ago. <Go ahead> I have a 40 gallon marine tank with a Red
Sea Prism skimmer and 2 Eheim 'Professional' filters, 1 wet and dry and
1 mechanical. I have 5 fish, all of which look healthy and get on well :
2 true percula clowns, 2 blue tangs and a dwarf angel fish. The tank has
3 or 4 soft corals and 4 T5 tubes for lighting (2 blue, 2 white). I have
quite a large amount of good quality live rock in the tank, although I
am unsure of the weight of that. I use R O water only to top-up and for
water changes, and test results show nil for ammonia, nitrite, and
phosphate, with nitrates at around 0-15. I have no room for a sump, so
will have to stick with essentially the same set-up of filters and
skimmer. Firstly, I have read that the wet and dry filter is not one
of Eheim's best ideas, <Agreed> and that it is best to do away
with some or all of the media in the filters, or even to do away with
the filters completely, or run them empty of media. Am I
misunderstanding anything here? <Not as far as I can discern... this
is one of Eheim's not so great engineered products> I like the Eheim
filters, partly because I spent a small fortune on them, but also
because they provide all of the water movement and circulation in the
tank, and they are very quiet. <I am of the same opinion> I have
been thinking of putting a PolyFilter in the mechanical filter - is
there any point in that? What else can one put into the filters to
permanently replace the present media which is so often described as a
'nitrate-factory'? <Mmm, "denitrator" one-time purchase media...
Siporax, Ehfi-Mech... other ceramic and sintered glass products...>
Secondly, is there to your knowledge a skimmer which is a similar
size/shape to the Red sea skimmer but more efficient? <Look to the
Aqua-C Remora line...> The tank is in the lounge. I find the Red Sea
skimmer easy to maintain, but a little noisy. Are skimmers necessarily
noisy? <Mmm, no... this product has a few good ideas, but was not
"finished" engineering wise... Try a Remora> I have this dream of
getting nitrates down to naught and the tank looking even better that it
does at the moment. Hope you can help. Thanks. Peter Hosier
<Thank you for sharing... And do make it known what progress you make.
Bob Fenner>
Skimmer Help, op. 6/20/07 Hi <Hello> I have recently
setup a 30 gallon salt water tank, seeded with live sand and rock (Its
only 5 days into the maturing process). I was looking to get a
protein skimmer and accidentally ordered a WeiPro 2014 hang on, which
seems to be for up to 150 Gal. I was wondering if I set this up would it
over skim the tank (If there is such a thing). <Judging by what I've
seen and heard of this product I don't think this will be a problem, it
seems to have a poor reputation.. Previously I have successfully
kept marine fish/inverts but this is my first tank since giving them up
4 years ago and a lot has changed, any advice would be greatly welcomed.
Thanks Colin <I would probably try to return this and try to get a
better skimmer, such as an Aqua-C, Deltec, Tunze, or even CPR BakPak.>
<Chris> Which Skimmer?
(Neither, Given Other Options) – 06/10/07 Hi, <<Hello James>>
I can't decide between an Aquamedic Turboflotor 5000 Twin and the Reef
Octopus 400 (one with 4 pumps). <<No other choices here? A Euro-Reef,
H&S, Bubble King, or AquaC maybe?>> I would go for the Twin but a lot
of people are raving about the Octopus. <<I’m not yet convinced…am
suspicious these are cheaply made (workmanship and materials) copycats>>
This is a big purchase for me so last stop is you guys. <<Is/can be a
large (and necessary, in my opinion) purchase for anybody, so why not go
with a top of the line quality skimmer?>> Both of these skimmers cost
around the same here in South Africa. The winner is......... <<Given
these as my only choices, I would have to go with the Turboflotor for
the reasons stated above. To be honest the Aquamedic skimmer would “not”
be my choice given other options, but they are known to produce, even if
a bit fiddly to get to work well>> Many Thanks in advance, James
<<Regards, EricR>> Double Skimming? – 5/19/07
Hello, <Hi, James> Is it a good idea to run two skimmers at the
same time? <Sometimes. It depends on your situation.> I have
recently built a new 920 gallon system. <Ooh, nice!> I am using
an aqua-medic 5000 baby skimmer, which is rated at 528 gallons.
<Does sound like it's a little undersized.> It is producing dark
good quality skimmate non stop. <And you are wondering how much it
is leaving behind...> So, I am looking at the AquaMedic 5000 twin
which is rated for 1320 gallons. Should I run the twin along with the
baby or just use the twin? <If you have room to run both while you
get the new one tweaked and broken in, you will have a chance to see
what both will do. If they both continue to produce significantly, then
you may want to keep both if serious skimming is your goal. If the
larger skimmer makes the original obsolete, it will be obvious. I am
running a similar experiment myself, and am soon to remove the original,
as the new skimmer is removing enough that the original is not earning
its keep.> Many Thanks in advance, James. Skimmer
Functional Questions... 5/18/07 Let's say an internal
skimmer is rated for 500gph, does that mean it sucks in water and pushes
it out at 500gph or does it mean it only spins the bubbles at 500gph and
you will need another pump? <Generally speaking this means that the
pump on the skimmer can process 500gph of water. There are
variables...Now this depends on how the skimmer is set-up and what type
of skimmer it is; if you are using the same pump to feed water and air
to your skimmer (how the common venturi/needle wheels are set-up) then a
500 gph pump is probably not pushing 500gph, most likely less because
you are also asking it to draw in air. The way to circumvent this is to
have two pumps (or more), one to feed only water (or you can gravity
feed the water without a pump) and the other pump to recirculate, add
air to the chamber for the foam-refraction to occur.> If is pushes
out at that rate and you want to slow it down, how do you do that?
<By restricting flow through some type of valve, i.e. gate valve>
Also if you can slow it down does it matter if the overflow goes
directly into the intake of the skimmer or to the sump? <I wouldn't
force your skimmer to process all of your overflow water, you can T-off
the overflow and use a valve to control how much water enters the
skimmer.> I want to get a Bubble King 250 Internal but it says that
it is rated at3000- 10.000 l/h Air suction min. 1000 - 3.000 l/h. <A
pricey but effective skimmer.> I will have a sump/refugium that
holds 100g water but that would make it turn over 7x. I read it is
better to have it around 3-5x. <7 is okay in my book but I wouldn't
want it to much higher than that, definitely not higher than 10. Adam
J.> Skimmer dilemma??? Sel., Inst. 5/16/07
Hi there, <Ho there> We've had our 90 RR cycling for 2 weeks
without our skimmer, haven't had much free time lately. <Okay...>
just got around to setting up the skimmer tonight and failed to check
beforehand if it'll fit inside the stand. <Yikes!> With all the
space my sump & pump take up, it'll take alot <No such word> to
fit it in now. I'd have to Dremel around the square base at the bottom
of my Lifereef skimmer, as well as cutting out some of the bottom inside
triangles on the stand <Mmm, don't know if I'd do this...> so I
can move the sump flush against the stand. Not something I was hoping
to have to do and the tools I'd need aren't so handy I also have another
option but I'm not sure if it will work. About 4 feet away from the
tank I have an armoire that I was planning on installing a future
refugium in, it could easily house the skimmer with no problem.
Would I run into trouble with putting the skimmer that far away from the
tank/sump? <Nope, no worries... though I would like to mention that
you should pay attention to what moisture, spray damage this gear may
cause to the furniture> The bottom of the armoire is about 3 inches
off the floor, the sump is on the floor, would this be ok that they
aren't on the same level surface? <No problem... as a matter of
fact, likely useful to getting the water back to the sump...> Option
3 which I don't really want to do is look to trade the Lifereef for
something that fits a little better. Thanks for your time <This
is the best suggestion yet... Do please look into the dimensions,
suitability of other lines... like Aqua-C, Euro-Reef... their dimensions
are stated on their sites... Bob Fenner> Too much skimmer??
5/12/07 Hey! I am in the process of slowly (next year or 2)
upgrading from my current 55 gallon reef system to a 135 gallon with 55
gallon sump/refugium. I have been buying equipment gradually over
the last few months so I won't be overwhelmed with the cost when the
time to put the system together comes. <Good planning> I'm
currently trying to decide on a protein skimmer and am a bit stuck. At
first I was set on the aqua c ev180, but recently started changing my
mind and leaning toward the Turboflotor 1000 line, mainly due to
cost. I have read some reviews on these and they seem like a decent
piece of equipment. <Yes, just take a bit of adjusting...> I
really became interested in them when I saw the Turboflotor multi sl (http://www.aqua-medic.com/turboflotor_multi.shtml)
which doubles as a hang-on or in sump skimmer. It's rated at 120-250
gallons so I'm assuming it would suffice for my future system, right?
<Should> Now what I really want to know is would it be ok for my
current 55 gallon as a hang on, or would it be way too much of an
overkill? <Will/would be fine here as well> I currently have a
Red Sea Prizm skimmer on the 55 gallon, which is mediocre. I figured I
could purchase the Turboflotor now and kill two birds with one stone;
upgrading my current skimmer and having one ready for the new
aquarium. What do you think? Thank you in advance for your input.
Jon <I do think this is a good plan. Bob Fenner> New
Skimmer Selection and Skimmer Set-Up 5/7/07 Hey
guys, <Hello Rich!.> love the site! <Thank you.> First,
my set-up: 75 gal fish only ESHOPPS-100 wet/dry with Rio-2500
return pump <Watch the Rio my friend...> TurboTwist UV (on the
return line) SeaClone 100 in sump (yes, I've learned my lesson)
<I bet!> Stock: Dog Face Puffer, Small humu, Tomato Clown, Threadfin
Butterfly, Queen Angel, Dwarf Golden Moray and Baby Snowflake <Big
and messy fellows...you'll be needing new homes for most of these
critters down the road.> My question: <On to it...> My
skimmer is in sump and simply drawing from the bottom, post-bio media.
Is this set-up effective or do I need to re-plumb to draw off prior to
the bio-media. If so, suggestions? <Well as you elude to above and
again below...the first problem is the skimmer itself...the one you have
isn't much more than an expensive bubble maker. Anyway, to increase the
effectiveness of your skimmer, if possible, you should always have it
in-line first to process raw overflow water. In this case you have the
bio-media first, now personally I don't like using bio-media at all in
your typical marine-home aquarium but that's another story.> Yes,
I'm going to replace the SeaClone. Big mistake. <A lesson though,
an expensive one but still a lesson.> Seems you guys favor either
the EuroReef or AquaC. <Those are both great brands, both are easy
to set-up...am not using one at the moment but have in the past. If
your deciding between an Aqua-C and a Euro-reef you'll be happy with
either one, both have superb customer service.> Looks like either is
a good choice. Appreciate any insight. <If your going to replumb
the system when you get the new skimmer, you can set it up (depending on
the skimmer model) in-line with the sump (not actually in the sump), you
can T-off your overflow line and allow the skimmer to be fed directly
with overflow water.> Regards, Richard <Good luck, and let me
know what you decide and how it turns out, AJ.> Re: New Skimmer
Selection/Set-Up AND Some plastic Bio-media issues...
5/7/07 Thanks guys, <Welcome.> appreciate the quick
response. <Of course.> From what you are describing, sounds like
it may be simpler to plumb a hang on (Remora Pro??), then to rearrange
everything under the tank. <Simpler yes, as effective as a larger
skimmer though?...no.> I'll probably go that route unless there is
some other pitfall I'm missing. Interested in your thoughts on why
the bio-media is not a favorite of yours. <Use the search engine on
the WWM home page and search re: plastic bio-media in marine aquarium
and also look into refugiums (hint-hint).> I'm learning every day!
<Cool.> Thanks again, Richard <Anytime, Adam J.>
Skimmer Problems...Looking For New Choices - 05/01/07 Hello,
<<Morning Ron>> I was hoping that someone could pass on a little
guidance and possibly some past experience. <<Happy to share what I
can...>> My skimmer malfunctioned over the weekend causing a major
flood. <<Mmm, yes...does happen...and one reason I am fond of
"in-sump" skimmer models/installations>> I have been wanting to
replace it (AquaC Remora Pro) because I have not been happy with its
performance. <<Hmm, generally a very good skimmer choice. Have you
tried contacting Jason Kim (owner) at AquaC? I am sure he would do his
best to help determine/fix the problem>> There are so many choices
and everyone says this one is great and that one is excellent. Very
confusing. <<Indeed...and does help to hear from those who own/use
the models you are interested in to help "you" make an informed
decision>> My setup is a 75 GAL with a 37 Gal sump. My quantity of
live rock is increasing every month. I have a moderate fish load; four
Tangs and the rest is small stuff. I would like to start adding corals
to the tank. The skimmer and live rock are my primary filtration.
<<I see>> Could you offer any suggestions to help me make a sensible
choice? <<I think I can, yes. My current fave skimmer is the
Euro-Reef. I employ an older model CS12-3 on my system...I think the
RS100 would be about perfect for your system with an average stocking
load, or the RS135 if you plan to stock heavy. Though I haven't used
one myself, I've been quite impressed with what I have seen of the H&S
skimmers...quality construction employing Eheim pumps...and the
performance looks very similar to the Euro-Reef in my
experience. Either of these skimmer brands would serve you well>>
Thank you for your time, Ron <<Happy to assist... I do think
the AquaC line is also a good choice, especially for systems in your
size range (excellent quality/value for the price)...perhaps their
in-sump model (Urchin Pro) would suit better. Regardless of what brand
you choose, I suggest you still give Jason a call and discuss your
issues with the Remora Pro. EricR>>
Re: Skimmer
Problems...Looking For New Choices - 05/01/07 Thank you so much
for your help; it's time to do a little comparative shopping. <<Yes
indeedy>> I will definitely contact AquaC. <<Please do, at least
give Jason the opportunity to address your concerns/issues...you may
find you don't need another skimmer after all>> Thanks so much.
<<Quite welcome. Eric Russell>>
Protein Skimmer Choices...
4/26/07 How do you feel about a Coralife Super Skimmer 65 for a
new 55 gallon tank? <I would prefer another brand honestly, if you
are going to use the Coralife in it's hang-on arrangement, the Aqua-C
Remora would be my choice for a swap. If you are set on the Coralife I
would go with the next size up, I believe it's the 125? Adam J.>
Skimmer help! Sel. 4/25/07 Hi Crew!!! I am in
the beginning stages of setting up a 56 gallon reef system, and am
finally ready to buy my skimmer. I will be setting up a sump with a
refugium, and will put the skimmer in the sump. I have been searching
your site, there is so much info!, but can not find what I am looking
for. I am looking at skimmers on the SWF <Single White Female?>
site, and am looking at the ASM Mini G Skimmer. Any thoughts?
<Don't know this product> Thank you so much for your wonderful
site!! Kelly <Please read here:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/skimselfaqs.htm and the linked files
above, including our notes on querying hobbyist users through BB's... re
gear issues. Bob Fenner>
SPS lighting and skimmer questions
4/21/07 Dear Crew Love the site. Most of my knowledge in the
hobby has come straight from you guys, so I'm of course very grateful.
<Here to help> Now on to the good stuff... I'm in the planning and
development stages of a SPS dominated system with LPS's near the bottom.
I'm new to SPS's and would like to do it right the first time to avoid
costly mistakes. I've bought the tank already, a 225-gallon acrylic show
tank, 72" wide by 30" tall by 24" deep. <Olly’s jealous Heehee>
I plan on using two 3/4" sea swirls on the front corners and two
stationary nozzles on the back corners running 24 hours a day, fed from
the sump return pump. Then a closed loop with two spray bars behind the
rock and two 3/4" nozzles positioned in the front/middle of the tank
pointed at the rock, tied to an Oceans Motions 4-way (version 2) device
that will turn on and off when the lights turn on and off to mimic tidal
movements. <Sounds a very good set-up; of course try and aim the
varying outputs at each other to create added random displacement>
Sand bed will be about four inches, with lots and lots of live rock.
First up is lighting. I would think that three 400-watt metal halides
would be perfect; problem is my canopy lid is split down the middle into
two separate lids. So to have a symmetrical look I'll need to install
four bulbs. I know SPS corals like a lot of light but I'm concerned I
might bleach some corals with 1600 watts of metal halides, not to
mention four 96-watt PC actinics that I was thinking of using. <”Not
to mention” electric bills> I'll be running a very powerful chiller
and although the canopy is low, clearance is 8.5 inches; I'll be
installing fans in the canopy and two vents directly behind the canopy
with fans on the roof that will pull humid hot air up and out of the
room. <Depending on the fixture used then the clearance may be
reduced significantly, I imagine you will be left with around 5-6
inches> This should combat the intense heat produced by four
400-watt bulbs. So my question is, what combo of lighting would be best
for the corals? Should I consider two 400's and two 250's? Or will four
400's be ok? <I personally think 400’s are often used unnecessarily
and a normally overkill. A tank with a depth of more than 28” is when
they come into their own. For this reason I would use the combination of
two 250’s and two 400’s. Or if you installed retrofit and read up on the
many articles on ballast/bulb and reflector output then I think four
250’s would work fine
http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2007-04/jb/index.php> On to my
skimming question. I was sold on an ASM G3 but now I'm thinking... why
not over skim a little and go for the G4? I have room for it, question
is, is it really possible to skim TOO much? And how much is too much?
The G4 is rated at 350 gallons, the G3 at 250. My Tank is 225 and I
figure the sump/refugium will be around 75. But actual water volume will
be much lower. I don't want a crazy amount of fish but would like to be
covered in case I over do it a little ;-) <I have no experience with
this brand but looking over their products and ratings; I would go with
the G4 as over skimming is a very influential part of many successful
SPS systems. Also like you say, this covers the odd indulgence in
future> Looking forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Chad
<Hope to have helped. On the lighting issue – I believe that part of
being a Conscientious Aquarist involves striking a balance between
taking from nature and maintaining what is already there. Using 400-watt
halides isn’t normally necessary unless you’re striving for quicker
enforced growth, and this often doesn’t materialize. However you will
significantly increase the amount of pollutants affecting the wild reefs
with excessive energy consumption and also spend more on this
electricity which could be used to further benefit your tank from other
additions. I’m not trying to sway you ^grins^ but I’d stick with 250’s –
save energy, benefit your tank, feel better with yourself! Cheers and
that wasn’t a lecture at you, it an opinion that I wished to share and
found my incentive. Hope I’ve helped, Olly>
Skimmer et al.
set up 4/14/07 Hi folks, Thanks for the wealth of info
on the site, I'm learning slowly. Our system is a 110 drilled tank with
a typical wet/dry filter sump. The tank water first runs through a
mechanical filter pad ( coralife pureflow <Proper nouns are
capitalized> that I have several of and rotate every 3 or 4 days
bleaching the used one and then rinsing and drying it to be used later)
<Good technique> then trickles through the bio balls, <I'd
remove these... see WWM> then to the open sump area where the
skimmer is (aquarium life support systems 22v model venturi) then some
chemical media (occasionally run ChemiPure and have started trying some
stuff called Algone) then is pumped back to main tank via mag drive 950.
From reading your info I now realize this is not a great setup,
<Mmm, if you're happy with it, what it does, your maintenance...>
but I'm not sure what to do different. <Keep reading> I don't
think I could really do a whole new sump. What if I bought an aqua c
remora? <Good product, addition here> I haven't been really
thrilled with the skimmer but is does produce some dark stuff. sometimes
it gets about a cup in a week but not always. My nitrates have been
about 20 ppm before my every two week water changes and about 15 ppm
after. I'm changing approx. 20%. In the main tank I have about 180 lbs
of live rock, 60 lbs aragonite 30 lbs live sand from GARF (about 3.5
inches thick total), 1 regal tang, 1 ocellaris clown, 1 flame angel, 1
neon goby, 1 sailfin tang, 1 royal Gramma, 2 flasher wrasses (not sure
what species), and 5 green chromis. Several scarlet reef hermits, a
couple of electric blue hermits, several Nassarius and turbo snails.
There are quite a lot of different corals, some growing, some just kind
of sitting there. <... I'd improve this environment...> I've
been dosing a two part calcium, trace element, ph, and alkalinity
additive to try to keep the calcium around 400. Lighting is a Coralife
pro AquaLight with 2 150 watt 10k (5 hrs a day) metal halides, 96 watt
actinic power compacts (12 hrs a day) and the 3 moon lights (some times
I run them 12 hrs a day and sometimes a shut them off completely). I
have two Seio 880 for circulation in addition to the filter pump. I'd
like to get the nitrates lower but have been having trouble doing it. I
feed one cube of formula 2 and one similar sized chunk of mysis shrimp
once daily. The fish eat it all very quickly and they seem to be fairly
fat and happy. I have recently started running the Algone to hopefully
lower the nitrate some but haven't noticed a big drop yet. Any advice
you could give would be very appreciated. God bless you, Dusty
<... Please read here:
http://wetwebmedia.com/wdmodconv.htm and the linked files above.
Bob Fenner> Re: Refugium....I think he's got it! – 4/13/07
Thank you very much for your advice. <Of course.> I have been
trying to get mushrooms to grow in my tank but they always die.
<Water quality issues, cnidarian life, even those as adaptable as
'shrooms can only tolerate so many dissolve organics/nutrients in the
water.> I am really going to go and buy (or make if possible) a
refugium. <A very worthy addition.> I have a coral life 260w
power compact (130blue +130white) <...Fine for most
photosynthetic life in this size tank, but be sure to change those bulbs
out about every 9 months...12 at the very most.> Thanks again.
<Anytime, Adam J.> Skimmer Selection 4/13/07 Hi,
<Hello Anthony> I am currently running a pro clear aquatics <Oh
no, another keyboard with a defective shift key.><<Heeeeee! RMF>> Pro
Clear Aquatics.> 150 wet dry with a built in protein skimmer for a 92
gallon corner tank. This protein skimmer has not been working so good
and I <I> would like to put a new one in but the first chamber of the
wet dry would only be able to fit a skimmer with a footprint no larger
than 6'' X 8.5''. I am not sure if I <I> should try and find a skimmer
small enough to fit into this first chamber or mount the new protein
skimmer on the outside of the sump. <There are many quality skimmers
that sit outside the sump. The return lines can be run directly back
into the sump minimizing any potential flooding.> I was also
thinking about replacing the bioballs in the second chamber with live
rock and putting the protein skimmer in this chamber. This would leave
me much more space for the skimmer. I am confused. I was wondering if
you would be able to give me your thoughts/recommendations? <Bad
thing about putting it there is that this is an area where the most
turbulence occurs and may lead to excessive micro bubbles in your
system.> The tank currently has about 60 lbs of live
rock in it as well as 1 Mandarin, 2 Clown Fish, 1 Six Line Wrasse,
1 Diamond Goby, and 3 Glass Cardinals. I am planning on adding some
soft corals when I am done making the changes to the filter. I would
appreciate any feedback. <May want to read here and other articles
concerning skimmer selection that can be found on our site. http://www.wetwebmedia.com/ca/cav1i1/protein_skimmer_impressions.htm>
Thanks, <You're welcome. James (Salty Dog)> Anthony
Sinularia sp. coral cutting? Filtration questions. Alcyoniid comp.,
skimmer sel. 3/31/07 Hello Bob, I have been
watching a sinularia sp coral in my 90 gallon reef for the last week
since it was injured by something in the tank, (we came to the
conclusion it was more than likely stung). <I do recall this>
The dead patch on the coral seems to be spreading now, I was thinking of
using a razor blade and slicing off (out) the infected (Dead) tissue
then giving the coral a tech D or Lugol's solution dip directly after.
<A useful approach... Do this cutting outside the main system... of
course> The torch coral I mentioned in previous emails seems to be
doing well now, the one damaged head died off, however no sign of
infection as far as I am aware of and all of the other heads look
great. I have another sinularia sp coral same type and color about 8
inches from the injured one <Mmm... not advised... really... in the
wild, all the Alcyoniids, in fact almost all alcyonaceans are found in
single species AND single genus stands... Unless these are clones, I
would keep them in separate systems...> and it seems to be doing
excellent. All other corals in the tank are doing very good. I am
putting a larger filtration system on this tank, I don't have much room
to do a larger tank as you mentioned before so I decided to put in a
larger filtration system below it. I will be using a sump that while
running holds 30 - 32 gallons, (full sump size 53 gallons) with 1,270
gallons per hour flowing from sump to tank. In this sump I created an
area for biological media since the tank is pretty heavily stocked. The
water from the overflow runs through filter floss, then through bio
media, a settling chamber then over flows into a space for activated
carbon (Chemi-pure), then into a chamber that houses a poly filter pad.
From there the water goes into a large empty area for protein skimming,
temperature control, and return to the reef. Does this sound like a
good idea to you? <Mmm, yes. Some folks would encourage the
placement of the skimmer first... the chemical media last... In actual
application there is little (a few percent) advantage...> I am also
putting a larger protein skimmer on the tank measurements 7" diameter,
36" to top of neck in collection cup, the skimmer will be run by a 1,100
gallon per hour pump. Would this pump be excessive to you? <Mmm...
no... if this "fits" the use of this device...> I already have the
pump and I figured that is a pretty big skimmer. This skimmer is a
venturi style skimmer. <For you and all readers, beware of "venturi"
this or that... Sure, sure, it's a fun word to say, but has actually
little to do with whether a skimmer is more/less "efficient"...> The
bubbles from the venturi will have to rise 30" in complete contact with
the water to the neck of the skimmer. The skimmer will also have a 10"
diameter cup on it to allow for more collection between cleanings.
I designed the skimmer to be completely taken apart for access to all
parts of it for cleaning and maintenance, <Ah, good!> and when
put back together it is completely sealed. The return to the sump will
have a gate valve, <Do remove the metal screw in the handle...>
and entry to the skimmer will also have a flow control valve. I will be
using 3/8" air line for the venturi that will feed into the top of the
collection cup to cut down on noise. Both lines running into and out of
the skimmer are 1" diameter PVC. Any feedback or comments on this
would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much for your time and
consideration. Brian Crenshaw PS. I also received my
microscope (QX5) and the Fish Disease Diagnosis, and Treatment book you
recommended. Both are great! Thank you again. <Ahh! Many enjoyable
and constructive hours ahead... and the sharing with others!!! BobF>
Less than Quality Protein Skimmers....to replace? (YES!) 3-13-07
Hey All. <Hello Eric.> I have a question about protein skimmers.
<Sure.> I have a 75 gallon reef tank. I recently replaced my
Excalibur protein skimmer with a SeaClone 150, <D'oh! One clunker
for another.> in large part because I had to replace the impeller in
the Rio 10hf once every few months. <Yeah these pumps....well let's
just say there are others I prefer.> Now the SeaClone is spewing
microbubbles into the display, and everywhere they are sticking to the
rock I am getting a funky algae. <They aren't of great or even
mediocre quality to be honest.> However all other parameters,
including phosphates, seem to be well within range. In your opinion,
should I get a new skimmer, <The real question is should you get a
skimmer at all...because in effect right now you don't have one....to be
honest the ones you have now are no more than expensive aeration
devices. So in short yes I would get a new one.> perhaps an Aqua C,
mod the SeaClone, or find a different pump for the Excalibur. <The
mods I have seen for the SeaClone help but they definitely don't turn it
into an A quality device in my opinion. The Aqua-C is the best choice of
those you listed.> Sorry for the long question. <Oh to be honest
this one was short and easy compared to most, thanks.> You guys
rock! <Thanks again.> Thanks, <Welcome.> Eric <Adam
J.> Skimmer Selection (Make Sure It's Big Enough!) - 03/12/07
Hello all! <<Howdy Brent!>> I emailed last week
about a clown trigger, snowflake eel and an emperor angel in a 240g
(96x24x24). They would be the only fish in the tank. <<Mmm, do keep
an eye on that Triggerus reallymeanus...am sure you are aware they often
become the "sole occupant" of their captive environments...>> The
tank is not up and running yet. Still in the planning stages.
<<Ok>> I have been reading the section on protein skimmers and can't
decide which one to go with. <<Only a handful of true options...in
my opinion>> In a lot of the emails sent in everybody seems to
recommend the Euro-Reef. <<Indeed, is my fave and what I use>> I
was curious, with the bio-load that I do have, would a Euro-Reef RS250
in-sump protein skimmer do just fine? <<It might, though I think it
may be "borderline" with this tank/mix of large messy feeders...the
RC250, or the CS400 would likely be better choices and give you greater
flexibility "down the road">> If not, could you recommend a
reputable brand that would do a great job? <<As stated, Euro-Reef is
"my" current favorite, but do have a look at the offerings from AquaC
and H&S...maybe even Deltec>> Once again your opinion is of great
value to me. <<And I'm happy to proffer it>> Thank you for all
the time and effort all of you put in. <<Quite welcome>> It is
very reassuring to have somewhere to turn for knowledgeable advice.
<<We're pleased to be of service>> Thank you, Brent
<<Regards, Eric Russell>> Re: Skimmer Selection (Make Sure
It's Big Enough!) - 03/12/07 Thanks for your quick reply!
<<Very welcome>> Brent here again to bug you with one more question.
<<No worries mate>> I am considering an ozonizer. <<Ah, very
good...is a worthwhile addition in my opinion, especially on larger
systems>> I have read the FAQ's about ozonizers on the web site and
I am still not sure how they work. <<Mmm, several different
methodologies (e.g.- UV, hot-spark, cold-corona discharge) but the end
result is the same...oxygen molecules sporting an "extra" oxygen atom
that makes the molecules very unstable and reactive to their
environment>> Could an ozonizer be used with a Euro-Reef RC250
protein skimmer? <<Indeed it can. I use a 250mg unit in conjunction
with my ER CS12-3>> Could you recommend a good brand to go with the
Euro-reef RC250 protein skimmer? <<I can...Ozotech. These units are
high-end units and cost accordingly, but will outperform/outlast the
other "hobby grade" units available>> Would you recommend an
ozonizer at all? <<I would, yes. I believe an ozonizer compliments
a skimmer by breaking down (burning up) organic waste
molecules...changing complex chemical compositions to "simple" compounds
more readily "skimmed" or otherwise utilized by the system, and
eliminating “yellowing” compounds for unparalleled water clarity
(better/more efficient than carbon in my opinion). There may be some
concern over excess bromine generated as a by-product of ozone reaction
with bromide (part of that breakdown of compounds I mentioned), but I
have yet to notice any ill effects I would associate with this though
admittedly it is not an avenue I have spent much time pursuing. I guess
my bottom line would be the benefits outweigh any negative aspects…in my
opinion>> Once again I am in the planning stages. I am buying a
240g (96x24x24). I plan to put a clown trigger (I am aware of the
clown's temperament and at the slightest hint of aggression I am
prepared financially to put him/her in another large system dedicated to
the clown), emperor angel and a snowflake eel in the tank.
<<Excellent to know>> With about 250 lbs of live rock and a 2-3"
deep live sand bed. Would a refugium also be beneficial? <<Added
water volume is always beneficial...and a large vegetable refugium to
help process organics would help...but in your case, the addition of a
fluidized-bed filter to help cope with "rapidly" fluctuating bio-levels
might be of a greater benefit>> Thank you for your thoughts. They
are always greatly appreciated. Brent <<Always happy to
share. Eric Russell>>
Aqua-Medic Mini/Midi Flotor, skimmer
sel. 2/27/07 Hi guys, what a great
service you guys have done to the community! Thank you!! <Welcome>
I am new in the reef keeping, I have a 55-gal acrylic tank with a small
15 gal sump. I would like to add a skimmer in the sump,
unfortunately, there's a very little space left free of sand. This area
(12" x 7") is to be shared with the return pump. <Mmm, big
enough...> I am considering Excalibur HV1 <Mmm, isn't this a HOB
(Hang on the Back) model?> which you recommend highly, however, this
might be slightly too large (4"x6" footprint). <Should fit...>
My second option is the Aquamedic MINI/MIDI FLOTOR (which is a sibling
of TurboFlotor). What's the performance of these MINI/MIDI Flotor?
How does it compare to BakPak II? <I think these are all comparable
function-wise... the AM product a bit harder to initially adjust... but
all three would work> Looking forward to hear your advice.
Thanks, Moeljo <Welcome. Bob Fenner> Lifereef Skimmer,
sel. period for a 600 gal. SW 2/27/07 Just one quick
question today, I have had a 180 gallon for 6 months now. My skimmer is
Lifereef VS3-30 powered by a Mag 12. I love my skimmer and everyone has
their opinions on which is the best. The Lifereef is simple to use and
keep tuned and pulls a full 1-2 cups of nog per week. Million dollar
question: If you were going to set up a 600 gallon reef what skimmer
would you use? <Mmm, either one or more Euro-Reef products, but
would consider a Deltec...> I am thinking to just go with what I
know and get a Lifereef VS3-72 (rated to 1500 gallons--I always double
what its rated for) But there are so many custom and well known high
dollar skimmer's out there that seem to work just as great. Deltec is
seen many times on huge beautiful tanks. IMO the skimmer is the engine
and I want to make sure there's not a diesel out there I would be more
happy with even though my V6 is doing just fine. thanks Jeff <And am
hoping still for the advent of RK2 hobbyist sized units... Bob Fenner>
ATI Bubble master 250. Skimmer Choices 02/17/07
I would like to know your opinion of the following skimmer: <Okay.>
ATI Bubble master 250.
http://blueribbonkoi.com/catalog.cfm?catalog_id=341 <It is
efficient...There are other options (as always) but I do not think you
would be disappointed.> It uses the thread wheel technology and
skims very well. I have seen one at the LFS. <Sounds like you have
your answer.> However, I am trying to see what other
Needlewheel/thread wheel skimmers are available in this price range
(~$800). <Euro-reef, ASM, Octopus skimmers, H&S, Deltec...and more.>
I will be setting up a 315g reef tank, primarily fish (combination of
angelfish, tangs, and butterflies), but some LFS corals and clams.
<Research carefully.> I need a skimmer that is rated for 400-500
gallons. I am not a fan of the downdraft skimmer (i.e. ETSS). <Nor
am I.> Any suggestions you can give is appreciated. Thanks,
<Of course.> Kirk <Adam J.> Re: Filtration Options
2/6/07 Thank you, Adam. <Anytime.> You guys really burn
the midnight oil! <Well I work graveyard so I'm nocturnal by
nature...you can call my house at 4am but don't dare think about calling
before noon lol.> Right now I have two prism's hanging on the back
for protein skimming. I'm not happy with the performance and am
considering a Deltec hang on MC500 skimmer. <Now that's a worthy
upgrade.> Although the cost is a little prohibitive, it's rated for
up to 170 gallons with normal stocking and 100 gallons for heavy
stocking. Do you recommend Deltec? <If you hang on this is the
top-of-the-line hang on skimmer....price tag to match too.> Can you
recommend a protein skimmer that would be effective for my 125 gallon
aquarium that is more economical? <Remora Pro if it modestly
stocked.> Thanks Again, Mark <Anytime, AJ.> Protein
Skimmer For A 210 Gallon Tank 2/1/07 Dear Crew, <Paul> I
have a brand new Aqua C Remora HOB protein skimmer. I originally planned
on setting up a 75 gallon FOWLR which is what the Aqua C was planned
for. However, good fortune has allowed me to get a 210 gallon tank
instead. I know the Aqua C would not be enough for this size tank.
However, I can't return it and know how well they work. In your opinion
would I be okay if I added another Aqua C Remora and use two
together. Additionally, since I will now be able to have a sump, would
it be okay to use the HOB type and one in the sump. I thank you for
your time and help as you have assisted me in the past as well.
<Sure, no such thing as overskimming. You may be surprised with the
AquaC HOB. My feeling is they are underrated and you may be fine with
this providing your animal load isn't too high. If nuisance algae
starts to invade the system, then go with an additional skimmer. You
may want to try and sell it on EBay or elsewhere and just buy one large
enough for your tank. James (Salty Dog)> Paul Demas
Re: Skimmer Advice, Cyano 1/28/07 The skimmer is a
Sea Clone 100 Instant Ocean by marine land. <One of the most
infamous skimmers in the marine hobby, it notoriously difficult to tune
this machine to be consistent and reliable….to put it lightly. By
having the adjustment valve removed I would assume you are allowing the
maximum amount of air/oxygen possible in this machine….but as I
mentioned it’s just historically not a highly praised piece of
machinery.> All water conditions such as nitrite, nitrate, pH.,
ammonia, alk etc. are all well. My problem is that I developed a purple
slime on my sand and have discovered that is not a Algae but is a
bacteria. little concerned. <Search WWM re:
cyanbacterium/blue-green (red) hair algae….there is likely a root
problem here either dealing with the chemistry (phosphates/dissolved
organics) or even improper (old) bulbs lighting schemes…water flow is to
be considered as well.> :-( Virginia <Adam J.> >
Skimmer advice...but what type? 1/28/07 > I have a 72
bow saltwater reef tank. I find that my protein skimmer > works best
if I take the adjustment regulator off completely. Skimmer > becomes
a little noisy but works great. Am I hurting the skimmer? I am >
using a Aqua Clear 110 for filtration, seems to be fine. I am told that
I should be on a sump. > <Virginia I would love to answer this
question but without more detail I don't think I can give you the
information you are looking for...what type of skimmer (brand? design?
size? pump model/size?) Also how is the skimmate production...tank
parameters?> > Virginia > <Adam J.>
Skimmer Selection 1/24/07 Hey crew, <Hey BJ> I need
some advice. I am running a 55G tank with a wet dry (being used
without bio balls as a sump) and a 10G fuge. It is time to upgrade
my skimmer from a cheap $55 PetSmart special to something that can
really clean. My two choices are a Aqua Medic Turboflotor Multi
(Used) with the ocean runner 2500 pump (used) or a Downdraft skimmer
(New) running either my Mag 2 or my Mag 7 (both Used). I have read
the pros and cons of both from the WWM site and am still on the
fence about which one to choose. Both are about the same price,
under $100. I am worried that the Downdraft might be over kill, if
there is such a thing, <No such thing as overkill with
skimmers.> on my 55G but I would like to think that I can move
it to a larger system if/when I upgrade. I have included pictures of
both skimmers for ya'll. <Can't open them, get page display
error.> I am only keeping mushrooms now as far as coral but that
might change in the future. So I am looking at what is best now and
in the future. Can you help me make the best choice here?
<Without seeing the pics, I don't know what brand downdraft skimmer
you are looking at, but I'd probably go with the downdraft
model. You may also want to look at the AquaC line, a very
dependable and efficient, hassle free skimmer. http://www.proteinskimmer.com/>
Thanks for all your help. <James (Salty Dog)> B.J. | 
|
Octopus Protein Skimmer Hi crew! Have you ever heard of the
Octopus protein skimmer? Here is a link to the one I am considering:
http://www.aquacave.com/detail.aspx?ID=495 . <I see it... looks
like a cheap knock-off of Aqua-C's Urchin product> It is a hang-on
model, which is what I need for my 55 gal. sumpless reef tank that is in
pretty cramped quarters. Do any of you guys have experience with this
brand, or would you recommend it? <Don't and nope... I don't like
such "off-brands", not knowing their history... and really don't like
O-ring fittings to make the junction twixt the collector cup and contact
chamber as shown here... these fail in short fashion> I could not
find any info in the FAQs about this brand. <Mmm, I think it's
new... made in someone's garage> I know you guys are partial to the
Aqua C, but my Remora Pro just met its demise after 6 years, with a
leaking/spraying injection screw hole, as well as the Rio pump that is
clunking and dying. <Oh! I would contact Jason Kim (the owner/mgr.
of Aqua-C re... and ditch the Taam-RIO pump for something better... My
and others input re this archived on WWM> A new screw did not fix
it, <? Again... contact Jason re... he/they are very interested in
such input> so rather than dump money into this one for any sort of
repair, I'd like to try a different brand this time. Please let me know
your thoughts on the Octopus HB-100. Thanks! You guys are the best!
<I wouldn't go that far... w/o a further superlative... as in the best
what? Be chatting, Bob Fenner>
Lifereef VS2-24 skimmer sel.
1/11/07 Hello, <Howdy> No matter where I search (google,
several reef sites) I am not finding many references to the LifeReef
vs2-24 protein skimmer. <http://www.google.com/search?q=lifereef+vs2-24+protein+skimmer&sourceid=ie7&rls=com.microsoft:en-US&ie=utf8&oe=utf8>
I currently have a 75 gallon FOWLR tank with around 70 lbs of live-rock
and about 30 lbs of sand that I plan on converting to a reef tank once I
can afford it, and I am using a Prizm Protein Skimmer that does not work
(I did not purchase it separately, tank, light, filter, skimmer, live
rock and live sand all purchased at the same time for $200). <I'd
dump the Prizm... look to other brands...> I have found a VS2-24 for
$100 without pump plus shipping. Is it worth getting or should I instead
get the AquaC Remora Pro (I can get it with the mag 3 for $138)? <I
definitely would opt for the AquaC product here> Thank You,
Adrian <Welcome. Bob Fenner> Quiet and Quality Protein
Skimmer 1/5/07 I have a 50 gallon salt water
tank with fish and live rock. I currently use a Prizm Deluxe PS-RS50181
Protein Skimmer. Though the system works great, I makes too much
noise. What other options do I have for a Protein Skimmer that is
"quiet". Thanks in advance for your help. <I highly
recommend the Remora AquaC; in fact, based on personal experience and
reviews, it's likely the only skimmer I'll ever use. Best regards,
Jorie> Dan. Re: Bio-Spira 12/14/06 Thanks for the
super fast response! I used Cycle by Nutrafin and followed directions
for marine use. OK, so I'll get Bio-Spira, do an 80% water change and
all fish and inverts will be ok? <Yes, you need to remove the toxins
in there. Just be sure the SG, pH & temp are the same as the tank
water.> Should I also put in new carbon filters?
<Wouldn't hurt> I have a Skilter Filter 400. Also, the protein
skimmer isn't getting any foam yet, I'm assuming that is normal since
the tank is so new. <Get yourself a decent
skimmer. Skilters are junk! In addition, that pad will collect
nitrates on it.> Thanks Pufferpunk! <You're very welcome! ~PP>
To Upgrade Or Not? - 12/12/06 Good Afternoon Guy's & Gals:
<<Good evening Jeremy>> I have a quick question that I value your
opinion of. <<Okey-Dokey>> I have a 75-gallon reef tank with a
20-gallon sump. I currently have an AquaC Urchin skimmer rated up to
75-gallons. <<Great little skimmers...and I had the pleasure of
meeting the company owner at Bob's place in HI last month>> Do you
think this skimmer is undersized for my setup? <<Probably
not...These skimmers are "sized" very accurately...unlike the boasts of
many of the lesser quality skimmer manufacturers>> Should I look to
upgrade to something a bit more substantial? <<Up to you...why not
give Jason Kim a call at AquaC (or send an email) and see what he
suggests? I'm certain he won't steer you wrong>> The skimmer does
pull out about a half a cup dark skimmate every 3-4 days. <<Much
like "watts per gallon" for lighting, there are many factors to
determine "how much skimmate" your tank should be producing. Rest
assured you have a quality product>> Bioload consists of:
*Fish:* Yellow tang, 2 blue-green Chromis, convict blenny, pink skunk
clownfish, algae blenny *|* *Coral:* Ricordea yuma mushrooms, yellow
polyps, devils hand (Lobophytum sp.), frogspawn (Euphyllia divisa),
Torch (Euphyllia sp.), various Zoos & 2 Acropora frags *|* *Inverts:*
coral-banded shrimp, 10 blue-legged hermit crabs, two astrea snails.
I plan to add maybe 1 more fish and a lot more corals. <<Do keep in
mind that "corals" place a bio-load on the system just as fish do,
albeit usually somewhat less...and not without other considerations such
as allelopathy>> Your input is appreciated. <<Hope you find it
useful>> Jeremy <<Regards, Eric Russell>> Euro-Reef
Skimmer Sizing - 12/11/06 Thanks for creating this forum.
<<We're pleased to be here>> I have only one question. I will be
setting up a 180 gallon acrylic. I already have purchased an All-Glass
stand. <<Made/designed for an acrylic tank I hope (entire bottom of
tank requires support)>> The clearance is just under 26". I will be
placing my skimmer in the sump. I am planning on purchasing an ER RC/RS
180 but wanted to ask if this skimmer will be powerful enough. The
Euro-Reef website contains the following specs for this skimmer:
Average load: 180 gallons Heavy load: 135 gallons Comparative
Rating up to 450 gallons I would prefer not to have to attempt to
modify the stand to accommodate the RC/RS 250 which is 30" high.
<<If anything, I tend to believe Euro-Reef "underestimates" their
skimmers a bit...the RC/RS 180 will likely be "plenty" of skimmer for
this tank>> My load will be mostly Acropora w/ some soft corals and
the following fish: Small school of Scott's fairy wrasses (or 4-6
different wrasses) Magenta Dottyback <<Pseudochromis
Fridmani? Do try to obtain a gentler "tank raised" specimen>>
Shrimp Gobies/Pistol Shrimp 1-2 Tangs Mandarin <<You will
need a fine sand bed and/or in-line refugium; as well as letting the
tank mature for a year or more, before adding the mandarin>> Thanks
again and Merry Christmas. Scott <<And to you in kind. EricR>>
Re: Euro Reef RS/RC 180 12/11/06 <Hey Scott, JustinN
with you today> The stand was built for a glass aquarium but I will
be placing a sheet of plywood under the tank. I've been told that this
is acceptable. <As long as the weight is evenly
distributed with the plywood, all should be fine here.> Thanks for
the input. I can't tell you how wonderful it is to have such
experienced reef keepers available to ask questions of. I'm really
starting to get excited about setting up a little slice of the ocean in
my living room. Thanks again! Scott <Thanks for the kind
words, Scott. I think I speak for everyone here when I say we take pride
in the service we offer, because we believe in it. Good luck in your
endeavors! -JustinN>
Skimmer Choices/Selection – 12/01/06 Hi all, <<Howdy Tim>>
I'm planning on a 75g reef tank with SPS, LPS, and maybe a clam with
perhaps 8 fish. I'm having difficulty picking a skimmer that would best
serve my needs. <<Hmm, should be pretty simple...choose a reputable
brand/manufacturer and follow their recommendations>> One of my
fears is that I need a skimmer which is $600+ (Euro-Reef, H&S etc.).
<<Debatable for sure...but the high-end skimmers really do perform
better/give more value for money in my experience/opinion>> Do you
think this is a likely scenario or will an AquaC or less expensive
skimmer be adequate? <<I consider AquaC to be one of the better
choices in skimmer selection...very good quality/customer service...an
AquaC skimmer would be a fine selection>> In addition, what is the
difference between a recirculating skimmer and a non-recirculating?
<<A recirculating skimmer is generally "gravity fed" from the display
tank and the pump then pulls water from/returns water too the skimmer
body in a "recirculating" fashion. A non-recirculating skimmer
generally feeds water to the skimmer body through the pump from an
outside source (sump)>> And is one superior to the other. <<The
recirculating skimmers are considered by many to be superior in
performance (all things being equal), but that’s not to mean the
non-recirculating skimmers aren’t excellent choices as well>> Thank
You, Tim <<Quite welcome. EricR>> Equipment list for 500
gallon system 11/26/07 Hello, <Hey Kirk,
JustinN with you this fine evening> And thank you for answering my
question: <No problems, is what we exist (as a group of like-minded
individuals, not as a personal crusade! *grin*) for> For my Xmas
present this year, my wife has given me the OK to get a 450 (96x36x30)
custom acrylic gallon tank for our new home. <Very nice! Quite an
undertaking, and quite a woman for letting it happen. *grin*> The
largest tank I have had to this point has been a 125gallon tank. I have
been in the saltwater hobby for 8 years, but I must say this is an
exciting but seemly overwhelming task. <Can be daunting> I know
the choice of filtration, pumps, skimmers and crucial to the success of
this project. <Absolutely> With that said, I would like to know
what types of skimmers would you recommend for a tank of this size. I
am going to have a mixture of fish (large angelfish, triggers (pink tail
or bluethroat), butterfly (copperband), clowns, and possible a Naso
tang) and corals (mostly being LFS and a clam or 2). I am NOT going to
keep SPS corals. <Am sure you know this, but still feel I must
mention that both the angels and the butterfly run a very high
possibility of nipping both corals and clams to death.> Skimmers
------------ The research I have done so far has led me to the
following skimmers: H&S Bubble King Deltec Klaes I
would like to know if a Euroreef or ASM skimmers are a good choice for
this large of a tank. Whatever skimmer I decide on, it needs to be a
well design skimmer AND produces a sufficient amount of skimmate. <I
believe any of these would be sufficient. Just to be safe, get a skimmer
that is recommended for a tank larger than your overall water volume.
That should give you the piece of mind you seek, regardless of
manufacturer.> Filtration/Pumps ------------------- I am
planning on a closed loop system, and for a pump choice it must be quiet
and emit low heat. I was thinking about Dolphin AMP Master pumps, but
some other reefers have mentioned larger Bluelines, but I do not know
much about them. Can you offer any suggestions in this area? How much
water flow (i.e., gph/hr) should I plan for?? <Alas, I have no
experience with either pump, but going on what I've heard, I hear
nothing but glowing praise for the Blueline line of pumps. Sequence
pumps also seem to carry a similar reputation. Sorry I'm not of more
assistance here.> Calcium Reactor ------------------ Is this
a mandatory piece of equipment with a tank this size? If so, can you
suggest some models for me to research. <I would not consider it
mandatory, no, but it will simplify and automate that much more of your
maintenance. Korallin, Knop and Tunze all make readily available calcium
reactors.> Thanks for any advice you can give. Kirk <Well,
wish I could say I had more specific recommendations for you, here, but
I think you will do fine. Just read as much reviews of equipment as
possible on online forums, talk to local reef clubs, and research before
you purchase. Do keep us informed on this wonderful sounding project!
-JustinN> Skimmer Recommendation 11/21/06 I
have a 35 gallon salt water set up that I am just starting. I have a
Fluval 204 and was looking to get a skimmer to add on for a reef set up.
Cost is kinda an issue and I was looking to get the most "bang for my
buck." What do you suggest as for a skimmer for this set up? I’m kinda
new at the game here so please keep that in mind when e-mailing me back
ha ha. Thanks for the help on this. Chris Moski
<With skimmers you really get what you pay for. Perhaps a DIY would be
an option depending on how handy you are. Otherwise please see here
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/ca/cav1i1/protein_skimmer_impressions.htm
for some ideas on currently available skimmers.> <Chris>
Question on Skimmers for a commercial operation of curing live rock
11/5/06 Hello Crew. <Andrew> Love the site but can't find
an answer to this question I have. <Let's fill in the gap here>
I am looking at setting up a live rock wholesale distribution business
in Ireland. I plan on making up 2 large vats to hold up to 1000kg of
live rock at a time. Here are my thoughts of the setup. 2 Vats not
plumbed together with closed loops via maxi jet mod.s for circulation. I
am thinking of running 2 skimmers - one off each vat to be able to
handle the load when the rock first arrives - also for resilience if one
happens to die. Also a Calcium reactor to help the coralline to grow.
<Very good idea> A refugium for nutrient export. UV to keep it
all clean and Ozone before the skimmer for performance. My query is
what type of skimmer to go for. I was looking at a large Beckett style
but after looking at the electricity cost <You are wise here>
(expensive in Ireland) I guess it is better to spend more up front than
constantly on the power. I assume that the total water volume will be
in the region of 3500 gallons. I will be using Natural sea water as
I have tested the local stuff and it seems fine. <I would seek
out/use a cheap source of carbonate (not much) and bicarbonate (a bunch)
here as well. Natural seawater has precious little buffering/alkaline
capacity> As I will firstly be dealing with live rock I feel that
this should be OK. Other idea was to make a few skimmers - but
worried that if they don't work and the rock is in the vats then the
spikes will be to high. Love some advice. Andrew <Mmm, well,
the cheapest way to extract the most undesirable material involves
pumping/eluting air into a stream of water... about a ten times saving
in efficiency over pumping the water instead... So "air-injection" type
units are preferable here... Perhaps a trip to Tropic Marine Centre
there in one of their UK locations... to see what they have on
offer/manufacture. Otherwise, DIY or commercial air injection units like
those from Euro-Reef, RK2... and many others are what I would search
out. Importantly, I want to mention that there are a few very important
"pre-soak" procedures that you can/should employ that will make this
whole process much easier, timely... profitable... Including seeking out
the better "initially clean" source of LR... expediently picking up,
cleaning/rinsing/removing excess muck and dead biota (possibly a rinse
tank series like those pictured, discussed being employed by friend Walt
Smith in Fiji... see WWM re. Bob Fenner>
Couple More Questions - 10/31/06 Hey Eric, <<Evening Ken>>
The tank is moving along. I put in the rock last Thursday night. I
tested for Ammonia on Sunday using LaMotte Colorimeter and the reading
was .75 ppm. I took it again today and it is .12 ppm.
<<Ah...progressing nicely>> I will do my water change after the
cycle as discussed. What % should I do? <<I recommend 50%...and
then retest after 24 hrs. You don't usually want to make changes that
large as a matter of routine, but at this juncture it will be fine>>
Does it depend on the nitrate level? <<Indeed...the tank is cycled
when ammonia/nitrite/nitrate all read 'zero'>> Once I do that water
change, and the tank is cycled, I will put in the sand. <<No need to
wait...but is up to you>> I am just putting in about 3/4" depth for
aesthetics more than anything. <<Will be fine>> Lastly,
skimmers. I am going to sell my MTC HSA-1000. It worked great, but the
heat from the pump (BlueLine 55) is quite a bit into the tank, plus the
180 watts electricity. <<Mmm, yes...and the noise>> I am going
to go with a needle wheel. <<Sweet!>> I am most likely going
with a Deltec. <<cool>> I like to oversize my skimmers. Is this
a bad thing? <<Not as far as I'm concerned>> I had heard someone
say they did that on their tank and that they could only get the bad
stuff out of the tank by turning up the flow and getting wet foam (which
is not what we want). <<Wet foam works too...but I have never
seen/heard/experienced the phenomena you mention. Many things can keep
a skimmer from performing as we "expect," not the least of which being
poor design/engineering...regardless of the size>> How big can I go,
or do you think this is not an issue? <<One or two sizes above the
manufacturers recommendation will be fine. If you expect to upsize to a
larger system in the not to distant future you may even want to consider
sizing the skimmer to the bigger system>> I have a 90-gallon tank
and was thinking of either the AP851 or AP701. I think that the AP600
is probably the one most people would buy, but I wanted to go bigger
unless it had a negative effect. <<Honestly mate these are very good
skimmers, the AP600 would be fine (rated for 200g systems), or maybe the
APF600 (rated for 270g systems) for a bit more "oomph". But it’s your
nickel, if you want the AP701 then go for it>> I appreciate your
help with this decision. Thanks and regards, Ken <<My
pleasure to assist. EricR>>
Multiple Skimmers?
10/31/06 Dear Scott and crew, Thanks for your reply.
<Our pleasure!> On the same topic, if I kept my Berlin Turbo and
added two Remora's would the skimming capacity be the same as a sump
unit? Are the effects of having several small skimmers additive?
Jeff <Actually, having more than one skimmer is a really nice idea.
I know several hobbyists who have employed multiple skimmers to great
affect. This provides additional skimming capacity, as well as
redundancy if one goes down for maintenance. Sure, it is possible to
"overskim" at tank, strange as it may seem, but I don't think that
you'll have this problem with your projected bioload. Good luck!
Regards, Scott F.> Counter Current Protein skimmer
dimensions? 10/8/06 Hello, it's been a while since
I've pestered y'all because everything's been going so well...shucks!
Well, I'm moving to a larger house and will be upgrading my 55 gal reef
setup to a 150 gal setup (72x18x28) <Man! Wish I could triple my
income!> and I'm wondering about upgrading my protein skimmer with a
DIY similar to that on your site. I would like to make the body out
of PVC and about 24-30" total height--ish. I would like to know what
the recommended diameter & height should be and if using a Surge 3500
pump (660gph @ 0') would be advisable for this application. Also, would
it work more efficiently to use the venturi in conjunction with the air
stone(s)--I'm thinking 2-3 lime wood stones? <Nah! The diffuser and
air driven mechanism is an outright pain to maintain... use a
venturi...> Here is my design to make sure I'm not
forgetting/missing anything: 1 overflow w/ 2x1.5" drains (currently in
use on the 150gal) into 15 gal DSB algae scrubber/refugium (heavy-duty
Rubbermaid-type bucket) which spills over into 30 gal settling tank/sump
(another Rubbermaid) for protein skimmer/auto-top off from RO/DI.
<Mmm, I'd reverse these two sumps and their contents... easier to keep a
constant water level in/with the skimmer... and more room for the
DSB/Algae...> Depending on budget, a Nielsen reactor as well. A 1"
bulk head will feed into a little giant 1/12 hp industrial application
pump w/ 3/4" inlet & outlet (currently feeding the 150 gal with a
measured 550 gph w/ approx 6' head and feeding an under gravel jet
system, so about 14' total of 3/4" pvc structure.), with ball valves
before and after, and running through a SQUID. A CAP 2200 (675gph @ 0')
will power a closed loop and additional current will be added by 2-3
MaxiJet 900 or 1200s. Total flow target is 1200+ gph. The tank will be
set up for soft corals and inverts and will likely be lightly stocked
(small budget). I'm planning a 4" DSB w/ plenum and will be starting w/
70-150#s LR (I already have 70# and may get the rest, pending some good
fortune), <And specials on "whole box" deals...> with plans to
add more as $ is available. Lighting will be 2x250W 10000k Ushio MH and
2x60W CFL actinics. Oh, I was also offered a snowflake moray and told
they're reef safe...opinions seem mixed on this. Any input? <Mmm,
"safer"... but still will eat all smallish crustaceans... run into
things... produce a goodly amount of ammonia with size...> Thank
you for your invaluable assistance. Branon
<Do look over the fab DIY site: OzReef.org for input re the skimmer...
and more! Bob Fenner> Skimmer Choice ... Aqua-C, Euro-Reef
10/7/06 First I'd like to thank all of you for putting up with
all of us and our repetitious questions. <Heeeee!> Now for yet
another skimmer dilemma. I've narrowed down my choices, as have many
others, to an Aqua-c 120 or 180, and a Euro-Reef RS100. <Good
units/manufacturers> It seems to me as I read through your responses
to similar questions that you prefer the Euro-Reef while stating that
the Aqua is also a fine choice. <Mmm, could proffer a
more discrete recommendation. Really depends on the sort of system...
livestock choices, arrangement, choices of other gear...> Could you
be more specific. Why is the Euro-Reef preferred over the Aqua-C?
<The livestock make-up mostly... more crowded, "reef" I'd go with the
Euro-Reef product by a small margin... For the vast majority of hobby
systems, the Aqua-C is preferable...> Does it produce a more
concentrated skimmate ? <Either can out-compete the other depending
on adjustment...> Is it easier to adjust? <Mmm, no. Both about
the same> Is the NW simply a better way of making tiny bubbles? Is
it simply a more reliable and consistent performer? <Both have their
promoters/detractors... do require the same lack of actual attention
once set-up...> I have read through countless forums in an effort to
sort this out and have ascertained only that skimmer choice is a leap
of faith. <Heeee! This is often the case in pet-fish matters> No
one is doing any comprehensive product testing. <These are about,
though generally not at all, let alone well-indexed... Most pulp 'zines
in our interest don't make their way into citation services... mostly a
lack of bibliographies... An issue I've gone over and over with
publishers, editors... But Bob Goeman's among others has tested,
reported on skimmer "choosing"> That said, I hope you can provide
some solid reasons for choosing one over the other. P.S. I'd also
consider an H&S if their distribution network was better. Thanks.
<Again... there are (IMO, not a matter of any scientific data, testing),
no great discernible functional differences twixt these lines... Both do
work well in doing what they're intended to do. Bob Fenner, who will
further gladly admit that the makers/owners of both companies are indeed
also friends> Re: Was,
Euro-Reef vs. Beckett Skimmers, now Deltec...An Opinion - 10/29/06
Hey Eric, <<Hi Ken>> What is your opinion of Deltec skimmers
since I am now debating needle wheel skimmers? <<Excellent
skimmers>> Also, is this a bad time to switch skimmers while curing
live rock, since it will take a new (clean) skimmer a day or so to get
up to speed? <<Not a problem at all, in my opinion>> Thanks,
Ken <<Cheers, EricR>> Refugiums/Selection 10/4/06
Hello crew, <Hello Mike> I have read though the questions on the
hang on tank refugiums and did not find my answer. In the future I will
be converting a 125 gallon fresh water over to FOWLR. I only have room
for hang on tank refugiums. I was thinking about 2 of them on the back
of the tank spaced out evenly. It will not be a heavy bio-load, maybe
10-15 small peaceful fish. My question is, are the protein skimmers that
come along with some of the refugiums are of the quality to handle this
or should I purchase them separately? <The CPR's incorporate their
Bak Pak skimmer in their hang on refugiums. A decent skimmer, but I
would rather go with skimmerless refugiums and an efficient hang-on
skimmer. Seems to me like you are helping to defeat the purpose of a
refugium by having a skimmer incorporated into it. Much better to
surface skim water to the skimmer.> I have a Remora on my 46 gallon
now it works great (thanks guys & gals ) on that one. Any input or
suggestions will be greatly appreciated and put to good use. Thank you
in advance and for all the help in the past, Mike, your fishin buddy.
<You're welcome Mike. James (Salty Dog)>
Re: Refugiums/Selection 10/5/06 Thank you for the lighting
quick response Salty Dog. The way you explained it makes perfect sense.
I will purchase a separate skimmer as suggested. Thanks again,
<You're welcome, Mike. James (Salty Dog)> Mike.
Which
Skimmer Is The Winner? 9/30/06 Hello Bob, <Scott
F. in tonight!> At the outset, I would like to compliment you for
the excellent website It has loads of info which has been so useful for
me and for my hobby. <We're thrilled to hear that. We have a lot of
talented hobbyists here who graciously volunteer their time to help
fellow fish geeks, and I'm proud to be associated with them!> I am
installing a 900 litre reef tank. I would like your help in choosing a
skimmer for my tank. <Sure, will try!> What is your impression
about the TUNZE DOC Comline 9010 skimmer and Aqua Medic Turboflotor 1000
Multi SL with OR2500 pump? Which is a better choice among the two?
I want your opinion so I can make choice! Thanks again. <Well,
you've chosen two excellent skimmers from reputable manufacturers. The
Turboflotor has been around for a while, and is a proven, reliable unit.
It can be just a bit finicky, in terms of adjustment, but once you get
it dialed in, it's really a joy to use. I can't say anything bad about
the Tunze, either. Tunze Comline DOC skimmers are absolutely quiet, easy
to set up (I mean, REALLY easy), and do a fine job, like all Tunze
products. They are consistent and easy to clean. Bottom line- you really
cannot go wrong with either, IMO. I'd probably try the 9015 for this
sized aquarium, however. My edge might be to the Tunze, as it uses less
energy, is a little easier to set up, and is very quiet. On the other
hand, you'll be just fine with the Turboflotor. Gee, I'm not being too
much help here, huh? Seriously, get the one that fits your needs and
budget, and rest easy that you have a fine unit. Good luck! Regards,
Scott F.>
Skimmer Recommendations 9/26/06 Hey there
crew, <Hi> Thanks for answering my questions; they've got me
through a lot. I just have a few more to hold me over for another
month or so. I have a forty-gallon tank with thirty-something pounds
of live rock, and some mushrooms. Currently I have been using a very
simple carbon filter that hangs on the back of my tank (yes, I know,
pretty sad). I wanted into more corals, and for this I would need a
protein skimmer, so I was wondering: What is the cheapest (I'm fourteen
and lawns need mowing), but most effective way for me to go? Any
suggestions would be helpful. Thanks again, Nathan
<Unfortunately with skimmers you tend to get what you pay for. I like
either a Aqua-C Remora or CPR BakPak for that sized tank. They are not
cheap, but better than wasting money on a skimmer that doesn't
work. Otherwise if you are handy you could try to build a DIY skimmer,
lots of good plans available on the internet. Please read
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/ca/cav1i1/protein_skimmer_impressions.htm
for more.> <Chris> Skimmer Suggestions 9/20/06 Hey
there Crew! <Hi> I have a forty gallon aquarium with a clownfish
and some mushrooms. I wanted to expand my reef with more corals etc. and
I was wondering what is a skimmer I should get for this. I really need a
cheaper route, because I'm only fourteen, but I can make pretty much any
amount of money when I put my mind to it! Alright, Thanks, Nathan
<Cheap skimmers are usually not worth the money, with these products
more money really does equal more value. Have you tried to make a
DIY? Several good designs available on the various message
boards. Otherwise give this a read
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/ca/cav1i1/protein_skimmer_impressions.htm
> <Chris> More Skimmer Recommendations 9/20/06 Evening
folks, <Hello> I need some help on deciding on a skimmer. I am
torn between: 1. Lifereef HVS 3-24 (hang-on). 2.Deltec MCE 600. 3. Aqua
C pro. I have a light to moderately stocked 125 gallon tank. Money is
not the problem just what skimmer would give me the most efficient
skimming while being the quietest. Any opinions are welcome. I thank you
for your time. <I am a big fan of the Aqua-Cs, but I'm not sure it
would be big enough for a 125, might want to check with Aqua-C to make
sure. I also really like the Deltecs, they have an excellent
reputation. I am not familiar with the Lifereef. I would check with
some of the message boards to get a wide range of opinions. Also give
this a read
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/ca/cav1i1/protein_skimmer_impressions.htm
> <Chris>
Too many bubbles in protein skimmer... SeaClone
9/19/06 I have a 55 gal marine tank with 1 yellow tang, 2 clowns,
1 royal Gramma and 2 cleaner shrimp. All water tests are in the zero
range. <?> My question: this past weekend I added a Coralife
Turbo Twist UV Sterilizer running thru a Fluval 205 canister filter.
Ever since all of this has been up and running I am getting mass of
small micro bubbles coming out of the Seaclone Protein Skimmer - no
amount of cleaning or adjusting seems to remedy this, also not a lot of
gunk in the skimmer cup. Am wondering if all this added equipment has
somehow caused this. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks,
DiAnn <This skimmer is hard to adjust... and really more a toy than
functional. Please read here:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/seacloneskimfaqs.htm Bob Fenner>
In Tank Skimmer - In Picture in your Book 9/18/06 Mr.
Fenner, <Don> My wife bought me your book The Conscientious
Aquarist yesterday at of all place a yard sale......$1.00.....best buck
ever spent. <Heeee! Guess it was bound to happen... but so soon?!
What's that line from that Billy Joel "Entertainer" song? "... I get
stuck in the back of the discount rack, like another can of peas...">
When she brought it home I sat down and read half of it..... my eyes got
blurry and had to stop. <Yikes!> She saw, in the beginning of
the book, a Fish Only aquarium picture.... has blue & white fake corals
etc and she wants me to duplicate that tank appearance in our
75g.......and keep the whole process simple. I noticed in the tank
description that the tank in the picture has an "in tank" protein
skimmer. My wife really liked that idea instead of hanging one on the
tank and a possible flood situation. Are "in tank" skimmers ok to use
for a fish only tank of my size (75)? <Mmm... well... not really.
Let's see... there are some "rather nice" European in-tank units (Sander
products:
http://www.tmc-ltd.co.uk/aquarium/sander-skimmers.asp on TMC's
site... But these are only imported (as far as I'm aware) in the very
smallest sizes... require a strong (pressure) air pump, and almost
continuous change-outs of air-wood diffusers... besides, they look like
heck. For this sized system (and even tiny ones) I'd get/use an outside
unit. Oh, please read here:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/proskimrart2.htm and the many skimmer
selection FAQs files above. Cheers, Bob Fenner> <Aqua-C> Skimmer
rave and Angel Question - 09/14/06 Hi Crew: I just
wanted to take a minute to thank you for recommending the Aqua-C
Remora. I replaced my Prizm with one and had some trouble getting it to
work. I emailed Aqua-C and the quickly responded to me that my fake
decor could be the problem. They recommended I remove it and rinse it
all 3-4 times for an hour at a time. Needless to say my skimmer is
working like a charm now. They mentioned that fake coral is notorious
for causing issues with the skimmer due to the oils that leech into the
water. <Yes... a problem that a couple of friends in the manufacture
of this are earnestly endeavoring to fix> For anyone that is
considering purchasing an Aqua-C please do! They have amazing service
and the difference is unbelievable in the skimmate that they
collect. Now for my question, sorry to go on for so long. My local fish
store is very good and separates all of the Angel fish that they have.
<A wise move> I noticed that the only exception to this is that they
always keep Flame Angels and Lemon Peel Angels in the same tank. I
questioned them and they said that they are the only ones that are
compatible together. Have you ever tried this mix? Would you recommend
it? Thanks for everything, <Mmmm, by and large, no... have seen
this and other combinations of Centropyge together... with and w/o
success/compatibility. I would not give carte blanche to this combo. Bob
Fenner>
Skimmer Selection - 09/07/06 Hi hello,
first congratulations with your page is wonderful. I am buying a
skimmer for my new tank a 250 gal reef aquarium. I am thinking
about the Tunze DOC 9210. <Did you mean 9010? If not, the 9010 is
more than enough for your tank.> or Turboflotor 5000 Shorty.
Which would you recommend, and if you have any other suggestion I will
be happy to hear it. <I would definitely take the Tunze over the
Turboflotor. AquaC and Euroreef are two other quality skimmers.
Thanks a lot. <You're welcome. James (Salty Dog)> Mauricio Cano
Is it worth it? Upgrades to a FOWLR/Reef... Skimmer and circ. concerns
8/28/06 Hello again WWM crew! <Mohammad> I'm
currently planning to upgrade my new FOWLR into a reef aquarium.
Currently, my circulation and the Protein Skimmer are not suitable for a
reef setup. My preferred place for a Protein Skimmer is in a
sump. <Mine too> I currently don't have a sump for my 100 gallon
tank. I have very limited space for a sump, around 12.5x14" footprint,
and about 22" height. I thought maybe I can use an AquaC Urchin Pro for
it's slim profile, but after thorough reading in the net and WWM a small
sump won't be easy to make (That is, for a 100 gallon). Would it
be a better idea to use an AquaC Remora Pro H.O.T. instead? <If the
space limitation is as you say, yes> Or do you think that making a
small sump with the Urchin (I personally don't think that I can even
squeeze 5 gallons in there...) is a better idea? <Mmm, too little
"room to spare" IMO> My second question concerns the
circulation. I came to understand that corals in a reef tank prefer
random turbulent flow. <Most species, communities, yes> I plan
to buy two Tunze Turbelle Streams (6060) to place on opposite directions
of the tank. Since Tunze Streams are very powerful, I believe they
should only be placed on the top of the tank. Will this cause dead spots
to form in the bottom of the tank? Or is it not a problem? <Not
likely on both counts, due to the force and volume of flow> I
appreciate your help. Enjoy. Mohammad <And you, Bob Fenner>
Tunze Skimmer Choice - 08/27/06 Hello, <<Howdy>> I need
advice; do you know how good is the Tunze DOC Protein Skimmer 9015?
<<Not first-hand...but do know/believe Tunze makes a well engineered,
quality product>> I own a 250 gal aquarium and I am thinking about
getting one of these. <<I think you will be quite pleased with this
choice of skimmer>> Thanks. <<Regards, EricR>> |
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