PROTEIN SKIMMER PROBLEMS... HELP!!

[nima]

I have a question about my protein skimmer. I have a berlin classic (250 gallons). It recently stopped foaming in the suction cup. What can I do. The water level is fine and there are bubbles inside the chamber.

 

[richard rendos]

Have you cleaned the neck on the collection cup? Sometimes they get a lot of grime built up and skimmer won't skim anymore.

 

[nima]

yes, I cleaned the unit last week and still nothing is in the cup.

 

[wamp]

Nima,
How long has it been setup? Also, take a syringe and sorce water down the venturi tube. This can dislodge and salt buildup inside the tube.
I have used one for years and trouble free until last month. I had to completly disasemble the pump and skimmer to clean it. The pumps output was strong but not strong enough to force enough water through the triple pass tube... There was also a buildup of sludge in the bottom of the skimmer slowing the flow down even more. It looked full of bubbles but produced nothing..
If it has been setup a while, they will slow down after some of the dissolved organics are removed..

 

[nima]

the tank has been set up for about 6 months now. Is it possible that the air bubles valve needs to be adjusted?

 

[panhead]

thats probably it, i to run a classic and for what ever reason from time to time it needs a little adjustment.

 

[nima]

now for the stupid question: How do you adjust the bubbles.

 

[wamp]

There is a thumb screw on the plastic pice that the hose runs through. Back it out a little at a time. Let it sit for 24 hours and then adjust again if necessary..... Don't do nay drastic changes at one time.