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1st time protein skimmer Q`s

Discussion in 'General Discussion' started by FishOrr, Oct 28, 2012.

  1. Oct 28, 2012 #1
    FishOrr

    FishOrr Inactive User

    26
    Ratings:
    +0 / 0 / -0

    After checking out 3 amazing tanks on the waterloo tank tour today I feel as if having a good skimmer is a must. I was thiking HOB skimmer but I cant help but wonder if it would be better to get a regular one instead. I do not have a sump and don't have an extra $200+ to spend on a premade one. Rather than going with a DIY sump I was thinking of having no sump and just buying the overflow and the skimmer. Is there any reason why this wouldnt work? If I am not mistaken the biggest skimmer I saw today was not in a sump it was a massive stand alone unit. Christmas isn't too far away and I think I already may have found a big ticket item for my list !/DesktopModules/ActiveForums/themes/_default/emoticons/w00t.gif
     
  2. Oct 28, 2012 #2
    MXC207 Cedar Rapids

    MXC207 Well-Known ReefKeeper

    634
    Cedar Rapids
    Ratings:
    +7 / 0 / -0
    Next time petco has dollar per gallon get a tank then. Glue baffles on it and ur set. That way its built to fit YOUR needs. I did it and am very happy with results.
     
  3. Oct 29, 2012 #3
    FishBrain New London

    FishBrain Expert Reefkeeper

    3,963
    New London
    Ratings:
    +399 / 6 / -0
    Save yourself a lot of trouble down the road and just build a sump. The big problem with a stand alone skimmer is if it decides to overflow it will be all over your floor.
     
  4. Oct 29, 2012 #4
    blackx-runner Cedar Rapids, IA

    blackx-runner Administrator Website Team Leadership Team

    6,044
    Cedar Rapids, IA
    Ratings:
    +738 / 5 / -0
    What size tank do you have? I Agree with everyone else on just building a sump first. You definitely don't want to run just an external skimmer off of an overflow. If you need a small tank lots of people have extra tanks laying around. You just have to catch them when they are willing to sell. You should be able to make one up to fit your needs relatively inexpensively. Then just find a good deal on a skimmer and a return pump and you're set.
     
  5. Oct 30, 2012 #5
    B-Rad

    B-Rad Inactive User

    999
    Ratings:
    +0 / 0 / -0
    I'm going to buck the system here and say you will do just fine with a good HOB skimmer. Yes a sump would be nice but if you are on a limited budget, it is not a necessity.
     

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