protein skimmers again

[farmerjo]

Hi, I am just new on this message board and I hope I'm doing this right. I am currently setting up a 180 gallon reef tank. I was wondering what type of skimmer would be the best. Money is no object. What do you think about the ETS downdrafts? What size would I need for a 180 gallon tank. I have read that most companies overrate their skimmers. I also plan on running two super actinics with 3-400 watt metal halides for lighting. Does this sound ok?

 

[mark24]

Welcome to the board. And it sounds like your right on track. From what I understand an ETSS 500 is good for up to 180 gallons even. But the ETSS 750 is good for up to 300 gallons, but for the $120 price increase from the 500 to 750, I would look at a different skimmer. ETSS Skimmers are great, but another skimmer you might concider a Precision Marine Bullet 2 skimmer, it is $370. Great skimmer. You might have some trouble finding it though. And if you have any questions about anything ask it. This is the best bb on the web.
-Mark

 

[farmerjo]

Thanks Mark. Do you have any ideas about my other questions posted on here?

 

[ironreef]

becket injector skimmers are one of the best. Much better than ets. = bullet,aerofoamers,hsa. Since your in Canada you my want to try Canreef skimmers. they are from Canada. Theres alot of USA ppl who knock off bullets(just like canreef) and they sell them alot cheaper. Good quality ect. But PM bullets are made very well. Your lighting sounds good but I would decide on the bulb I would be using. 10k 6.5k ect...PFO makes solid ballast

 

[farmerjo]

thank for the advice titan...only what is PFO? When you say 'knock off' do you mean copy the design? Are Hamilton retrofit lighting units good quality?

 

[farmerjo]

thank for the advice titan...only what is PFO? When you say 'knock off' do you mean copy the design? Are Hamilton retrofit lighting units good quality?

 

[myreef]

FWIW, Canreef is no longer in business. The website hasn't worked for at least a week.
PFO is a brand of ballast. They make VHO, MH, and PC ballasts/retro kits as well as full setups. Their website is www.pfolighting.com Many mail order retailers sell their equipment. www.***************.com and www.***********.com to name a few.