Protein skimmer problems!

[fishyscientist]

I am having problems with my Reef Octopus Classic 150 INT protein skimmer (we got one that is for a larger tank than what we have. Our tank is a 125g w/55g sump, and this one is for a 150g tank). The 'bubbles' level is constantly changing drastically, and I feel it's not skimming well as a result. The skim is tan in color (although very cloudy and gross). The skimmer is placed at the correct water level height as well. I will say we get significant evaporation over the week, and always have to add fresh RO water to account for this. Would this change the skimmer performance that drastically? How can I make it perform better?

 

[1guydude]

If u can, place it in a body of water that Dosent go up and down. This and leaving the gate valve alone and not adjusting it. This should make the water in the body of the skimmer, level and constant. Hths
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[fishyscientist]

Ok...would you suggest moving it to another portion of the sump? I have it set up in the sump where the return pump is located. Should I move it to the first 'chamber'? I'm not sure what the water level does in this area compared to the last chamber, but I guess I could try it! We have left the gate valve alone, and come back to find it too low. Then, we adjust to increase a little over time to the correct level. The next day, it will be overflowing! Then, we adjust slowly to decrease the level, and it's too low again. OR we will have a steady level for a few days, and then check again and it's too low! So frustrating!!!

 

[geridoc]

Generally speaking, I like to locate my skimmers in the receiving compartment of a sump so that the skimmer gets the least processed water to work on. Having the skimmer in the return compartment feeds it water that has already been processed by algae, bioballs, and whatever else you have in the sump.

 

[snakeblitz33]

As stated already, the skimmer needs to go in a compartment of the sump that has the least variation in water level. This is generally the first compartment where the water comes into. It's also the dirtiest water, as geridoc stated, so it will consistently remove more DOC from the system.

When you add top off water to the tank, it drastically changes the salinity of the water in that chamber, which has a negative effect on the skimmer. Also, right now, as your water level decreases in your return chamber due to evaporation, your skimmers water level decreases because there is more pressure on the pump and the foam wont reach the top of the collection cup.

Try it out and see. I hope this helps.

 

[pegasus]

Agreed with all above. Return chamber levels fluctuate due to evaporation and topping off. The first chamber (overflow chamber) is where the skimmer should be, as the water level in this chamber doesn't (normally) fluctuate. A stable and consistent water level is imperative for optimal skimmer performance.

 

[fishyscientist]

Sorry for the late reply! Thank you for the advice! Is it also imperative to have a top off system? We do not have one because someone told us that they don't work well. Any thoughts on that?

 

[snakeblitz33]

I use an ATO on my current aquarium. I like them. I have only had one system, made by JBJ. Best $80 I've ever spent on a tank.

 

[silverado61]

Sorry for the late reply! Thank you for the advice! Is it also imperative to have a top off system? We do not have one because someone told us that they don't work well. Any thoughts on that?

With my ATO system, I replace my 5g top off bucket every three to four days as opposed to topping off by hand every day. Consistent salinity level, less stress on the fish and corals, less work and worry. You be the judge.