Best skimmer for my sump/tank?

[citymouse]

Hi,
I'm not new to saltwater but I am new to using a sump. I'm setting up a new 215g with a trigger systems sump. I don't know what size skimmer or what would be the best one to use in this set up.
My current 75g has always used canister filters.

I'm just getting the hang of how the sump works, how to set it up, what I need etc. Still working on getting the plumbing to stop leaking....I have a return pump set up already, I figure all I need now is skimmer? I also have an Apex set up for the tank.

 

[madweazl]

Skimmers certainly aren't mandatory but they have a number of benefits. Some of the factors to consider will be the footprint of the unit; obviously it needs to fit in the sump chamber (e.g. length and width) but also keep an eye on the height of the skimmer as each tends to work at a slightly different depth of water (with a couple exceptions that I'll mention later). Depending on your sump's chambers, you may have to physically move the sump up off the bottom of the sump to accommodate the requisite depth; obviously, this will move the entire skimmer up higher in the stand which may present interference issues with the top of the stand/bottom of the aquarium. "Squeegees" are also available for many skimmers which cuts down on some maintenance but also adds height to the skimmer so also keep that in mind if it is something you'd be interested in down the road.

As mentioned above, there are a couple exceptions to the water depth issue. You can purchase an external skimmer that would sit outside the sump or a recirculating skimmer that still remains in the sump but uses a second pump to create the appropriate water level in the skimmer and is unaffected by the depth of your sump's skimmer chamber.

When it comes to brands, there are endless possibilities and/or recommendations. I'm a fan of Deltec because they're exceptionally easy to maintain (entire unit comes apart with a single thumb screw) and they require very little attention after initial adjustment. On the negative side, parts availability isn't as good as some others should you need something (only a couple US retailers carry them).