Filter vs. Skimmer

topofsteel

topofsteel

Member
Do you need both a skimmer and a filter? And can that all be handled in the sump or will i need separate lines for them? I am looking at tank between 55 and 75 gallons with sand and some live rock with a sump. I will want to be able to start a reef at some point and be able to add components as i go to keep start up costs down. Also is it possible to fit all of this equipment into a 48"x18"x36" (LxWxH) cabinet? Thanks.
 
mouse03245

mouse03245

Member
I would love to hear an answer to the filter and skimmer question. My old fluval just went out and I have a skimmer in my 55 gal. and I need to know if I need to buy a new one.I only have one fish so my bio load is pretty low.
 
nytrillium

nytrillium

Member
No you dont need a separate filter (depending on bio load and LR and size). Right now i have my 30 gal with 40 lbs LR with only a skimmer. The LR is intended to provide all of your filtration. Thats why between 1-2 lbs per gallon is recommended. I do run carbon in a canister filter once a month or so though.....
 
hapshot

hapshot

Member
A canister filter is a biological filter. I thought you said you only have 40lbs of liverock and a skimmer.
 
nytrillium

nytrillium

Member
yeah, and to remove any harmufl heavy metals that may have somehow found their way into the tank. I also read something on here about amino acids or bio proteins (some such thing) build up. They are what,over time, cause the yellowing of your water. No other type of filtration, even live rock can get rid of. I think it said that they are the end result of every biological break down of wastes and matter in the aquarium. They cannot be used by any other bacterias and can not be broken down any further. Only activated carbon can absorb these compounds. I kknow it was on this forum that i read it but i cant seem to find it now. maybe someone that knows it will see this thread and link to it.
 
nytrillium

nytrillium

Member
yea, i thought so. it was prettty interesting
Other than that, there isnt really any reason to run Carbon 24/7. The carbon looses its absorbing properties after about a week or so....
 
hapshot

hapshot

Member
Well not exactly a week. It depends on how much bad gunk you have in your tank. If you have a lot of bad stuff, the carbon will lose its chemical properites faster but if your tank is pretty clear, it will take longer.
If you want to run your carbon 24/7, make sure your replace it ever 2 weeks or so because eventually it will soon turn into a biologicl place for bacteria to thrive.
 
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