560 gallon tank use 1 or 2 skimmers?

[The Pondman]

When I build a large koi pond for my clients I often will guide them to install a multiple filter & pump setup. This splits the bio-load between 2 medium filters and operate at 80% capacity instead of 1 large filter operating at 100%. A multiple pump/filter setup are smaller and often will have the same operational cost as the large pump if not just slightly higher. But most importantly, if your 1 pump setup goes then you're scrambling but you can limp on a 2 pump setup if 1 pump goes because we all know pumps are designed to break during the holiday season or when stores are closed.

So the question is; should I setup 2 small sumps, each with a skimmer that is sized for a medium load 250 gallon tank or go with 1 large skimmer sump setup? Seems it'll cost me the same and the 2 skimmer setup might actually be a lot cheaper as these smaller ones can be found used and finding a used large one isn't that easy.

Thanks in advance for the assistance!

 

[Bpb]

Wouldn’t be the first time I’ve heard of someone using multiples. I’d prefer a big 4 feet tall externally run lifereef though.

 

[The Pondman]

I found a brand new Nextreef NXS 1 XXL for an extremely good price. Are these okay, good or great skimmers?