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Protein Skimmer

Discussion in 'General Discussion' started by Wolfie1257, Jul 14, 2013.

  1. Jul 14, 2013 #1
    Wolfie1257

    Wolfie1257 Inactive User

    2
    Ratings:
    +0 / 0 / -0

    Does anyone know if there is a "rule of thumb" for sizing a protein skimmer? I am biulding an 80 gallon system, 40 tank 40 sump, and I can't figure out which protein skimmer to get. Is there a rule about flow rate to gallons, size to gallons, name brand, pretty colors.... I've figured out most everything else but for some reason the skimmer is stumping me.
     
  2. Jul 14, 2013 #2
    Sponge Marshalltown, IA

    Sponge Expert Reefkeeper Vendor

    3,347
    Marshalltown, IA
    Ratings:
    +233 / 1 / -0
    Many people here like the Reef Octopus skimmers. Factors people consider are the space available in the sump, whether it's going to be a FOWLR, mixed/SPS/LPS &Softie reef, bioload...things like that. Generally speaking, getting the largest skimmer one can afford, space available, possibility for a larger tank in the future...things like that are often thought about as well. Skimmer manufacturers rate their skimmers (usually on tank/water volume) but most reefers would agree that those ratings are usually exaggerated. Personally, I prefer to look at the bioload, what I'm keeping for fish and corals and, how the skimmer is made. Hope this helps :0)
     
  3. Jul 15, 2013 #3
    dead fish Iowa City

    dead fish Dead Fish

    832
    Iowa City
    Ratings:
    +1 / 0 / -0
    If possible, I always buy one size up from what is rated for my tank size.
     
  4. Jul 15, 2013 #4
    Railcar79

    Railcar79 Inactive User

    245
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    Go for the biggest skinner you can afford, and fit into your system. I have a 55 display and a 29 sump, and I am running a RO 150
    2
     
    Last edited by a moderator: Oct 24, 2015
  5. Jul 15, 2013 #5
    Wolfie1257

    Wolfie1257 Inactive User

    2
    Ratings:
    +0 / 0 / -0

    Thanks for the replies. I think, after looking around the web, I might just build one. From what I gather, the smaller you can get the bubbles and the longer you keep the water in contact with the bubbles the better. So if bigger is better than I might have a huge one since it's in the basement and I'm all too concerned what it looks like. Leaves room for expansion. I'll take pictures.
     

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