can you put skimmer in return pump chamber?

MoshJosh · Jul 4, 2022

My understanding is that this is not typically where you would put a skimmer because you want a consistent water level. . . but if the ATO sensor/float would also be in this chamber wont the water level stay consistent? Thoughts?

MnFish1 · Jul 4, 2022

It is best not to put it in the return chamber - mainly because it's fairly common for some bubbles to be released from the skimmer - which can result in micro bubbles in the tank. (Even if the water level is constant). There is no other reason except for this not to 'try it'. Depending on the size of your return pump - and your skimmer

exnisstech · Jul 4, 2022

My skimmer is in the first chamber where water flows in from the overflow drains. That chamber is always full of bubbles when the skimmer is running so I can't imagine it would work well in the return chamber unless you want a display full of micro bubbles

Lost in the Sauce · Jul 4, 2022

MnFish1 said:
It is best not to put it in the return chamber - mainly because it's fairly common for some bubbles to be released from the skimmer - which can result in micro bubbles in the tank. (Even if the water level is constant). There is no other reason except for this not to 'try it'. Depending on the size of your return pump - and your skimmer

Hit the Nail on the head.

theMeat · Jul 4, 2022

Best for skimmer to be in first chamber where the dirtiest water is, return pump in last chamber where cleanest water goes back to tank
Micro bubbles from skimmer also not likely to make it to tank

benmed · Jul 4, 2022

Lost in the Sauce said:
Hit the Nail on the head.

MnFish1 said:
It is best not to put it in the return chamber - mainly because it's fairly common for some bubbles to be released from the skimmer - which can result in micro bubbles in the tank. (Even if the water level is constant). There is no other reason except for this not to 'try it'. Depending on the size of your return pump - and your skimmer

What are microbubbles and why are they bad for the tank?

Lost in the Sauce · Jul 4, 2022

benmed said:
What are microbubbles and why are they bad for the tank?

Micro bubbles are Very small bubbles suspended in the water. They aren't "bad" for the tank. They are unsightly in the display because it makes the water less clear. Clearer water = a better view at your fish and coral.