Posted By ninjazx777 on 06/03/2009 07:46 PM
i am looking into buying a new skimmer because the volume of my setup keeps increasing
basically right now I estimate total water volume minus rocks to be around 350-400 gallons between my 2 tanks, sump and fuge eventually it will be around 550 gal when i add my frag tank and my upstairs tank. right now I have a clone (copy) of a mrc3 powered by a mag 18. the skimmers i am looking at are a octopus triple 300 tdnw-300 or a mrc-3r recirculating. just wanted to get some oppinions on them
thanks
matt
I didn't notice your projected water volume when I first read this (sorry) and as you're finding skimmers have wildy varying opinions.
As you're getting into the "big boy" water volumes the options start to decrease as there's quite a variety of skimmers for systems under 300g.
Have you researched A.E. Tech's ETSS Superskimmers? Patented down draft design and they make models for up to 30,000 gallons depending on the load...speaking of which, you didn't mention fish only, soft or sps load to your tank which makes a difference in your skimmer needs:
Based on 550g, the ETSS 1000 would most likely be the skimmer for you, problem is the height:
| Patented Downdraft™ Technology Skimmer |
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Features |
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Powerful ETSS patented Downdraft™ Technology skimming action*
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The updated version of the first ETSS model ever developed. This skimmer has changed our concept what we can achieve with our marine tanks forever.
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This professional skimmer is used to provide the finest water quality in some of the most awesome aquariums ever built.
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The unparalled oxygen exchange that this skimmer produces will easily blow off any CO2 buildup maintaining optimal oxygen levels in the aquarium.
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Good phosphate removal action to really clean your aquarium.
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Plankton friendly Downdraft™ action. |
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MSRP Price $ 999 |
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Specifications |
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- Size: 12x9x62 inches
- Inlet:
1 " PVC inlet can use either a 1" hose barb or Std 1" PVC fitting
- Outlet:
one 1 1/2 inch PVC Gate valve
- Pumps:
Use with 70 RLT or extended range 100 RLT Iwaki
- Flow range:
800-1200 GPH
- Tank capacity:
300-600 gallons
- Uses 55 large bio-balls for the ultimate in skimming action
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Clear version of ETSS 1000 shows downdraft mixing & skimming action.
Note water level about 1" below the base's top
You also see the 1/2" PVC drain line vent pipe installed with a tee.
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Anniversary Model, Clear ETSS 1000 version
This foaming action is typical of all ETSS 600 and up models.
This is the top skimmer for experienced aquarists with large tanks. |
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Allowing total control over a large (300+gallons) aquarium's water quality.
Doing SPS corals and loads of fish with heavy food input. No problem, this skimmer can easily keep up with it.
Its flow rate can be controlled with the pump's outlet ball valve to accommodate the ideal organic level for your application.
Lowering the flow rate increases the organic level in the aquarium. Increasing the flow rate decreases the organic levels in the aquarium.
The total height of the oxygen reactor/mixer is what accounts for its phenomenal performance. While its size cannot be hidden under a stand its skimming performance more than makes up the any inconvenience.
Experienced aquarists have learned, sometimes the hard way, that design compromises and lower performance that are the hallmarks for putting a large skimmer under the aquarium.
Tall skimmers always have the performance edge and of those this is the most powerful tool available.
*ETSS Downdraft Skimmers US Patent # 5554280 |
I first saw these skimmers @ Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. They were initially designed for commecrical applications but have been scaled down for consumers...their site show the 17 public aquariums that they filter http://superskimmer.com/Public%20Aquariums.htm
http://superskimmer.com/index.htm
Just my thoughts...good luck with your research!
-Eric