Foam at the top of my 10 gal tank?

[duke jjz]

I have had my 10 gallon setup for about 6 weeks now. I noticed today that there is "foam" at the top of the tank around the edges. The only change I made between yesterday and today is that I added a new light (CurrentUSA Dual Satellite). Could the light be creating this??? I heard that this could be protein.... Please advise

 

[flatzboy]

I think it is just protein. I would invest in a skimmer like the cpr bakpak or aqua c remora.:yes:

 

[thomas712]

Dissolved organics can do this, means you need to test your water to see whats happening, also do a water change and run fresh carbon.

 

[duke jjz]

Did a 15% water change on Sunday. Also changed the carbon Friday. I will test my levels now.

 

[duke jjz]

Looks as if my pH level went up just a bit. From 8.2 to 8.4. Regardless I am going to be purchasing a skimmer this weekend to ensure good water quality.

 

[flatzboy]

Before you buy a skimmer I want to make sure your not getting ripped of and getting a crappy skimmer. So what kind are you geting and how much or are you still not sure. I just don't want you to waste your money.

 

[duke jjz]

I am not sure of a specific one yet. I am pretty good friends with the guy at the LFS, so I do trust him. However, what do u recommend. Money really is no object. However I do want something good and that is pretty quiet....

 

[flatzboy]

I would definately go with the aquac remora. they are like $160-170 online and they are rated for up to 75g. so if you ever upgrade to a bigger tank you won't need to buy another skimmer unless its over 75g. and they skim like crazy. They are also extremely quiet. :yes:

 

[duke jjz]

Would that be overkill right now though for a 10 gallon?
How is the Seaclone 100?

 

[thomas712]

I'd just do water changes if it were me, the price of a skimmer for a 10 gallon tank would buy alot of salt and do the same thing.
Thomas

 

[rossim]

Originally posted by Duke JJZ
Would that be overkill right now though for a 10 gallon?
How is the Seaclone 100?
I currently have the Seaclone and it is LOUD! My tank is in my bedroom, so I had to shut it off and I just ordered the Aqua C Urchin (In-sump model). It should arive today.
If you are set on the seaclone, I'll have one available in a couple days.

 

[duke jjz]

I am not set on the seaclone at all. just heard that it was a good one. I also have my tank in my bedroom and want to avoid as much noice as possible! My light fan is loud enough!

 

[marvida]

I have a SeaClone 100 on my 10 & like it a lot. There are a couple of things you need to do to make using one a positive experience. 1) They take a lot of adjusting. 2) You need to make sure the lower o-ring is VERY clean when assembling it and lube the o-ring with a little bit of liquid silicone to make sure it won't leak.

 

[flatzboy]

Yeah the lot of adjusting is right my neighbor has to adjust his daily. I would just go with the cpr bakpak.

 

[overanalyzer]

Originally posted by FLATZBOY
Yeah the lot of adjusting is right my neighbor has to adjust his daily. I would just go with the cpr bakpak.
Ditto - but on a ten why would you need one. I'd follow Thomas's suggestion and invest in water changes on a regular basis!!
4 nano tanks - 0 skimmers ..... I like it that way. Less noise and mess - especially @ work!

 

[bigarn]

Do you have a powerhead?
If you do try pointing it more towards the top of the tank.
Better surface circulation might help break up the foam.
I don't think you need a skimmer in a 10 gallon.:happyfish