Algae Scrubber vs. Protein Skimmer Dilemma

snakeblitz33

snakeblitz33

Well-Known Member
Hey all,
As you know, I'm a pretty big proponant of Algae Scrubbers. I use one on my personal display tank and I use several others on various others. The problem I am having now is with this one tank in particular. I already bought all of the PVC parts and pieces and the pump to run a large algae scrubber for a 110g tank and I have already got it all set up and it's been running on the system for nearly 5 weeks now. It cost around $100 total to build with labor cost. The problem is that the scrubber for whatever reason, is not growing any algae, and is not removing any hair algae from the display tank at all... It's not helping anything. I re-built the top of the scrubber and I replaced the screen with a really roughed up one, and still a week later, it's not growing anything.
So, I'm stuck. Do I refund the $100, and let her put it towards buying a decent sized protein skimmer that will definitely take care of the bioload, or do I keep trying to modify this algae scrubber until it starts to work? If I do opt to refund the money towards a decent protein skimmer, does anyone have any suggestions for an in-sump protein skimmer for a 110g tank with a medium bioload?
Thanks for the help. Oh, and what should I say to her when I refund the money? I do feel that a protein skimmer is the way to go for this particular tank, just because of the situation.
 
snakeblitz33

snakeblitz33

Well-Known Member
Well, I think I figured out the protein skimmer I am going to get for her tank!
Reef Octopus NWB 150
Needle Wheel Protein
Skimmer
If anyone disagrees, please let me know...
And I would love someone's input as to how to tell her the news about her algae scrubber not working.
 
snakeblitz33

snakeblitz33

Well-Known Member
I'm gonna say round $150 to $225. I'll probably end up paying $100 of it and taking the scrubber home with me.
 
snakeblitz33

snakeblitz33

Well-Known Member
That octopus that I listed is$199.99 plus shipping. It seems to be a decent skimmer for up to 150g. I know it will also fit her sump.
 
acrylic51

acrylic51

Active Member
Better skimmer designs by Octopus than the 1 you listed......If your customer wanted the scrubber in the first place, and then tank plans; stocking list demands changed, then she should foot the bill.
If the scrubber isn't working.....I wouldn't charge and eat it, and put a efficient skimmer on the tank......A SWC would be another option, but a cone style skimmer of either brand would be my choice regardless.
 
snakeblitz33

snakeblitz33

Well-Known Member
I could probably get by with some macro in the sump with the two lights that I have for the scrubber for a few months and have her save up for a decent skimmer. What is so great about SWC or cone skimmers, and not that Octo that I listed? If I did want to purchase it, would I really be that disappointed for the price? Wouldn't it be able to handle a decent bioload in concurrence with macroalgae and a GFO reactor?
 
acrylic51

acrylic51

Active Member
Cone design is just more efficient, than traditional designed skimmers. Nothing wrong with the model you listed. The SWC and Octopus a similar designs (cone) and pumps are more efficient. The 1 you listed I more old style "school" design.
 
2quills

2quills

Well-Known Member
I'd say go with what the budget calls for. As long as this tank isn't being fed super heavy then I don't see it being a big deal if a skimmer takes 2 hours to skim a system over a more affordable one takes 4 hours. I've seen a few people come through this sight using that exact same skimmer and not say anything bad about it.
The SWC and Super Reef cone skimmers are the same thing. Produced by the same manufacturer over in china. They are just using different pumps and being sold by different distributors. Cone designs allow bubbles to rise to the cup easier while putting less back pressure on the pump. But I think the one you listed is part cone anyway. So pretty close to the same thing.
 
tur4k

tur4k

Member
Is algae growing in the DT? It's seems weird to me that no algae is growing on the screen. Did you try adding a little iron? I know that macros and FW plants need iron. Not sure about HA.
 
kiefers

kiefers

Active Member
This seems funny for me to be to be replying to this thread and going with the scubber. Lol..... However, someone got me curious and learn more about them. Is your screen rough enough for the algea to grow on? Hows about the lights? Are they powerful enough? Just thoughts here.
Where do you plan on putting the skimmer?
 
kiefers

kiefers

Active Member
Just something to think about too is, and I'm sure you are aware of this Seth, having a skimmer doesn't mean it's going to rid your hair algea problem. Did you by chance add somethng new to your tank? Lights, different salt?
 
spanko

spanko

Active Member
seed the scrubber screen to get it going. Is the water movement too fast over the screen?
 
snakeblitz33

snakeblitz33

Well-Known Member
I'm on my phone now. I'll type in detail the problems I'm having when I get home this afternoon. Thanks guys.
 
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