How Vital is a Protien Skimmer?

[gmidd]

I just set up my 30 gallon a week ago and was curious how vital is a Protien Skimmer for my size of a tank. I'm currently running a Fluval 305 and the water is crystal clear (for now). When I hooked up my Coralife Protien Skimmer its bulky for my size of tank, noisey and I couldn't get it to work properly so I'm considering not using it. Any input?

 

[keith burn]

Originally Posted by Gmidd
I just set up my 30 gallon a week ago and was curious how vital is a Protien Skimmer for my size of a tank. I'm currently running a Fluval 305 and the water is crystal clear (for now). When I hooked up my Coralife Protien Skimmer its bulky for my size of tank, noisey and I couldn't get it to work properly so I'm considering not using it. Any input?

NOT VITAL FOR YOU NOW BUT IN ABOUT 3/6M IT WILL BE.
IMO A SKIMMER IS THE BEST THING AFTER LR.

 

[dragonzim]

Once you see how much gunk a protein skimmer pulls out you'll realize how vital it is to have one!

 

[clibby]

After 4 years of a "SO-SO" reef, and many casualties, I finally dismantled my entired biological filtration system. I removed all Bio Balls. I replaced that space in my Sump with the Euro-Reef Protein Skimmer. My tank finally looks like all the great photos I see here. If you have a reef tank, remove the biological media and put in a Skimmer.
I found my Bio Balls were filled with gunk and most likely a Nitrate haven.
GOOD LUCK!

 

[craig7220]

Protein skimmers are vital to a healthy system. My skimmer will pull out 2 to 3 cups of brown scummy crap a week. You won't see much at first since your tank is new but after a few months, you won't believe how much junk it pulls out of your water.

 

[lion_crazz]

Protein skimmers are one of the most important aspects of a saltwater aquarium.

 

[phishface]

Well said everyone!!

 

[rgunnell]

I was told since my tank was new (only 4 days now), I didn't really need one. However, I saw a lot of organic buildup on top of my water and since I've installed the Ramora, it is all gone. Inside my Ramora, a nasty lookin soupy brown mess.
I'd get one. Better to be early than late anyway.

 

[gmidd]

Thanks for the input. As for the lack of bubbles, it may be due to the tank is so new. We'll see.

 

[rgunnell]

Oh, thats another thing. I had *alot* of microbubbles in my water...but after the Ramora was intalled, they are almost non-existent as well. My tank just looks really really clean.
Best of luck to you.

 

[sepulatian]

As stated before, your first cup of skimmed water will tell you how important they are