Ohio Reef

Reef Discussion => Equipment => Topic started by: AJ on November 24, 2015, 10:38:22

Title: Small Skimmer Ideas
Post by: AJ on November 24, 2015, 10:38:22

I am in process of building a 40 Breeder (with a 20 Long Sump) frag tank.  I am searching for a skimmer that will not be overpowered for that small water volume (around 50 gallons).  The only ones that I can find are rated for 75+ gallons.  Any ideas??

Title: Re: Small Skimmer Ideas
Post by: jfishwild on November 24, 2015, 11:23:14

Here is something I found

http://www.marineandreef.com/Best_Protein_Skimmers_for_50_75_90_Gallon_Tanks_s/370.htm

Title: Re: Small Skimmer Ideas
Post by: Wall_Tank on November 24, 2015, 12:24:11

The same setup that I have.  I run a Vertex Omega 130.

The ratings are way over inflated.  If you are going to put SPS in the system, then I would get a skimmer rated for at least 150% of the volume.

Title: Re: Small Skimmer Ideas
Post by: Rob on December 07, 2015, 12:06:48

My personal feelings...you can not overskim.  If something is stated to skim 75 gallons, I think that would be perfect for a 40 gallon tanks.  Manufacturers are notorious for overstating capacity.  Skimmers should also be rated based on a bio-load too.  Most systems will vary.

Title: Re: Small Skimmer Ideas
Post by: Rob on December 07, 2015, 12:07:24

Quote from: Wall_Tank on November 24, 2015, 12:24:11

The ratings are way over inflated.  If you are going to put SPS in the system, then I would get a skimmer rated for at least 150% of the volume.

Agreed!

Title: Re: Small Skimmer Ideas
Post by: joelbegt on December 07, 2015, 20:27:24

The Reef Octopus BH50 sounds about correct at 50gallon rated light load 30 gallon heavy.  I do believe you can over skim with a light load on a tank while riding an ULNS line.  I know of at least one very successful SPS setup that has backed down the skimmer to help with SPS health. 


http://www.coralvue.com/reef-octopus-bh-50-protein-skimmer (http://www.coralvue.com/reef-octopus-bh-50-protein-skimmer)

Title: Re: Small Skimmer Ideas
Post by: buckeyereefer on December 10, 2015, 06:13:56

Bubble Magus curve 5 is a popular skimmer for that water volume on several nano forums. I am running a Vortex 130 on same setup as you. I like the Vortex but after reading posts of the BM curve. I acquired one to try but never got it running. Seems to be built real nice though.   Decided to shut everything down for awhile.