CPR protein skimmer

[johnnymas]

i am fairly new to the site and new to the hobby. I just picked up a used hang from the back CPR protein skimmer. It doesnt have a pump. any recommendations? also what exactly does a protein skimmer do?

 

[dacia]

I have a CPR Bak Pak 2 protein skimmer. Is that the one that you have? It's good for tanks that are small. Mine is only 30 gallons.
I think a Maxi-jet 1200 would be good to power the skimmer if you have the same kind that I do. If it is a different model, then I'm not sure.
Basically it removes all the dissolved organic crap from your water. Ever watch the foam that crashes on the seashore? A protein skimmer removes that kind of garbage from your reef. Every week or so you will empty the tray and see that it has lots of this foam in it.

 

[buzz]

If it is a model 2 or 2R, it is designed for use with a Rio 600. That is what it is sold with. You can upgrade the pump to an 800, or switch brands to a maxijet 1200 as noted above, but you need to make sure that whichever pump you get, it has a venturi kit. Just using a powerhead does nothing. You need the air tube as well.

 

[dacia]

Mine came with a rio, but it broke down in no time. That's why I recommend the Maxijet.

 

[johnnymas]

thanks BUZZ and DARCIA for your advice and help... as far as the venturi kit/ air hose do they come with the pump? if not will my LFS know what i need(i hope)
thanks again

 

[dacia]

It will come with the pump. It will say on the box whether or not it is included. Good luck!

 

[birdy]

I think you can go to CPR's website and they have the info on ordering the maxijet kit that will run the skimmer.