best protein skimmer available??

Blizz · Apr 25, 2016

Not new to the hobby but new to the site. I'm looking to go with a refugium and want to start off with the best skimmer I can get... Only want to do this once,,,, yea right... I have a 75gal show tank with zero coral... My fish are always healthy but my water number are not... I think after a while they just adjust to the conditions.

My refugium will be a 40 gal system... From my research I am leaning towards an Aqua C EV 180.

Anyone have a better suggestion?? I'd appreciate any input as I'm in the early stages of this project.

Thanks in advance
fmblizz

shred5 · Apr 25, 2016

Well Aqua C while a great skimmer for its time is a little out of date. It requires a pretty big pump so they are kind of inefficient.
You want the best go with a Bubble king, the only problem is they cost a fortune.
Next inline I would look toward Deltec or ATB they make pretty good skimmers but at a slightly less price.

Deltec you can get at Battle corals from Adam and they are a sponsor here and can help size the skimmer for you.

ATB is also a sponsor her and you can talk to Paul.

theblackpearl · Apr 25, 2016

recurculating skimmers are the best you can get.....more control and more precise adjustments

skimz makes a good skimmer and I hear reef octopus arent to bad

Heres what i have : http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/skimz-monzter-sm122-external-protein-skimmer.html

PatW · Apr 25, 2016

I have a super reef octopus and it is a nice skimmer. They have a new line with DC pumps that looks interesting.

The Vertex Omega line has a very good reputation.

There is a European line that uses red dragon pumps that is reputed to be the best.

But get a skimmer that is well made and has a good pump. Also you want one that is a bit over sized for your system. I have friends who say it should be double the capacity of your tank. I think any number of companies make decent skimmers that are quite effective.