What to do about funky film on my water?

[cardsfan16]

Hi Everyone,
I started up a 75 gallon about 6 weeks back. I've yet to add fish due to being on vacation; however, I have added snails and several crabs. I have had about 65 lbs. of cured live rock in there for about a month and all my chemical levels have been optimal. I'm using two Rena XP 2s, and have two MaxiJet 1200 powerheads. I plan on adding my first fish this weekend.
My only problem is I keep having a nasty film develop on the top of my water. Every couple of days I take a plastic cup and slowly skim off this material, but it keeps coming back. Is this where a protein skimmer would come into play? Any idea what is causing this?
Thanks!

 

[jjlittle]

I would increase water flow maybe add 2 more maxi jet 900's and get the top water to ripple and good flow thoughtout the tank.A protein skimmer may help to but I would say u need more flow/water ripple at surface.

 

[teresaq1]

hi, do you have any power heads hitting the suface of the water, you should have something breaking the surface for gas exchange. and also, a protein skimmer would help.

 

[ssweet1]

Just aim the powerheads towards the surface until they get the water moving. It sounds like there isnt enough flow across the surface. Also get a skimmer for many reasons it is one of the more important investments you make, If you dont have a seperate sump the Remora C pro hangs on and is great for a 75 gallon Carrie

 

[cardsfan16]

Thanks for the quick replies! Sounds like I need to direct the powerheads more towards the surface for starters. Presently they are both on the back of the tank towards each side and pointing straight forward. My idea was the water disturbance would spread out from the front in all directions to help the flow. It does make its way to the surface, but apparantly not as much as needed. The outakes from both my Rena's are pointed more towards the exact middle of the tank, and sadly you can't change the vertical direction on those.
I did a bit of searching on the boards after my post and noticed a few people responded to a similiar post a while back saying you could take a paper towel and skim off the gunk from the top as well. Seems alot easier than the method I've been using.
I was planning on adding a skimmer regardless but it appears the waterflow issue may help me out more than anything at the moment.

 

[kaseykagan]

It's funny, we had the same problem exactly and we also a a Rena XP3!! We have recently adjusted our power heads to get more circulation on top and it has helped! We have had fish now for about a month and the scum have not effected them in any way. So you could probably still get your fish this weekend!
Good Luck