Best Export Method

TreyC2010 · Jan 9, 2020

I’m curious what the community thinks is the best export method for our tanks. Does an algae scrubber take out enough nutrients vs a skimmer/fuge or vs a skimmer alone? Should you incorporate an algae scrubber with a skimmer and/or fuge? Are the old fashioned water changes the best or a “new” auto water change better because of stability? Is the new roller mat a good option vs an algae scrubber?

I’d appreciate anyone’s input and I’m interested in what you have now that may work perfect for you. I also want to know what you think, if money is no option, is the ideal setup.

X-37B · Jan 9, 2020

Could not vote as I just run a skimmer and 7" filter sock on my 120.

TreyC2010 · Jan 9, 2020

90's reefer said:
Could not vote as I just run a skimmer and 7" filter sock on my 120.

I’ll add that. Thank you for the input

theMeat · Jan 9, 2020

Kind of a trick question.
Think as a single item a scrubber is best at nutrient export. Maybe too much so you have to dial in light time so you don’t strip too much.
The same efficiency can be achieved with bio pellets fed into an adequate skimmer. Again you have to watch you don’t strip too much.
Now as far as best think skimmer with a fuge. Skimmer takes out some straight away before it starts to break down and enter the nitrogen cycle, as well as aerate. And the fuge consumes what the skimmer doesn’t get, in form of nitrate and phosphate at end game of nitrogen cycle. The macro in fuge will only grow as big and fast as what nutrients are available, so lil worry on stripping too much. gives pods and other helpful critters a place to breed, and if you run low flow in fuge gives debris a place to settle out so running a sock less important
My .02

TreyC2010 · Jan 9, 2020

theMeat said:
Kind of a trick question.
Think as a single item a scrubber is best at nutrient export. Maybe too much so you have to dial in light time so you don’t strip too much.
The same efficiency can be achieved with bio pellets fed into an adequate skimmer. Again you have to watch you don’t strip too much.
Now as far as best think skimmer with a fuge. Skimmer takes out some straight away before it starts to break down and enter the nitrogen cycle, as well as aerate. And the fuge consumes what the skimmer doesn’t get, in form of nitrate and phosphate at end game of nitrogen cycle. The macro in fuge will only grow as big and fast as what nutrients are available, so lil worry on stripping too much. gives pods and other helpful critters a place to breed, and if you run low flow in fuge gives debris a place to settle out so running a sock less important
My .02

Thank you! That’s all I’m asking is for your opinion on what’s your preferred method. I’m pretty set on my method but I know there is a lot of new equipment and methods out there and didn’t want to be left behind.