skimmer suggestion!

[bullitr]

i have a msx 300 for only 3 months its doing really great for my tank but i am planning to upgrade later for 550+ gallon total system later.
i found a swc fdnw 400 skimmer from a local reefer who is selling his for a reasonable price.
here is the problem
MSX PROS:
only 60 watts to run
it won't cost me anything i can save it for a controller and larger calcium reactor
CONS
its PITA to remove the skimmate collection cup all time because of my tall sump.
in sump set up generate a little bit of heat too
SWC FDNW 400
PROS:
it can handle my future upgrade and my current system with no issue.
its reasonable for the price
external set up less heat transfer
can use sump as a frag tank
CONS:
its 260 watts to run
less money for my AC apex and larger calcium reactor

 

[joncat24]

I would keep the MSX 300, add the extended collection cup and an askoll pump to it, and you will be set. The askoll upgrade is amazing, and still keeps the wattage low.
You could also add the askoll/laguna pump and not add the extended neck. I don't have the extended neck on my msx 250 and it works great, so it would be ok for sure on the 300.

 

[mech-a-nic]

Just Drill a hole in the cup and run a line to a 1 or 5 gallon bucket depending on you needs.

 

[bullitr]

Originally Posted by Mech-a-nic
http:///forum/post/3108016
Just Drill a hole in the cup and run a line to a 1 or 5 gallon bucket depending on you needs.

my sump is 24" high glass i can't drill the tank anymore. if i could it will go directly to dedicated tank drain

 

[cedarreef]

Originally Posted by bullitr
http:///forum/post/3108278
my sump is 24" high glass i can't drill the tank anymore. if i could it will go directly to dedicated tank drain
He's not telling you to drill your sump. I think he's suggesting you drill a hole in the collection cup and fit some airline tubing in the hole so the skimmate goes through the tube into an accessible container.

 

[bullitr]

i understand what he's saying
but the skimmer is only 24" high and the skimmer collection cup has hole on the bottom all ready built in. i need at least 30" inches skimmer.