Skimmer Help

[aceroc]

I got a Amiracle protein skimmer from a friend with no water pump or air pump. I got a water pump and i had a small air pump for a 10gal laying around and used it. It makes bubbles but it doesn't seem to bubble up into the collection cup. I never owned a protein skimmer as this is my first saltwater tank. My friend doesn't know either as when he moved into his house the guy left the tank and he never used a skimmer either.
Maybe i need a bigger air pump?
Thanks

 

[airforceb2]

I'm not familiar with that type of skimmer but on mine, it will foam up to the collection cup within a day or so...depending on your bio load.

 

[aceroc]

Mine bubbles up to the bottom on the collection cup. Still has a way to go to go up in the the tube to overflow muck into the cup.
Sorry hard for me to explain because i never used one before, but since it was free i am tryig to get it to work.
It has only been running for a bout an hour.
Thanks

 

[airforceb2]

I'd give it time. It should foam up over time.

 

[aceroc]

Ok i bought a new air pump and i have better bubbles now but nothing is foaming up. How long does it take to see stuff in my collection cup and will too much air effect it also? Also what does the stuff ( protein ) look like so i know if it is working?
Thanks

 

[airforceb2]

It will be dark brown and smell HORRIBLE. You will know it when you smell it.

 

[aceroc]

I checked the skimmer today and it has a white froth going up to the collection cup, but it is not brown. Just looks like bubble froth.
Any other help?