Deciding on a Skimmer

Fafaflunky · Nov 26, 2015

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

I'm deciding on a Protein Skimmer for a new 120g tank I will be purchasing tomorrow. Thinking to go with Reef Octopus Classic 202-S 8." There are not many reviews that I see. Does anyone have thoughts or experience with this skimmer on a 120g tank? It says its rated for up to 265g tank and from what I read, it's important to go with a larger skimmer for efficiency.

Any guidance or thoughts are appreciated.

twilliard · Nov 26, 2015

I like the fact you can take the bottom off for cleaning

Fafaflunky · Nov 26, 2015

Could it be too powerful for my tank (is there such a thing)? I am also considering the Vertex Omega 150. It is rated for up to 150g both are currently on sale at BRS.

twilliard · Nov 26, 2015

No such thing as too big of a skimmer

(I run the helix 5000 on 80 gallons)
What I look for is the ability to completely clean them without having to cram my hand down the neck.

tigerdragon · Nov 26, 2015

I have had the omega 150 its a good quality skimmer. I have since switched to a hydor performer 1005 recirculating skimmer really like this skimmer produces really good skimmate and was always able to maintain a good ph never below 8.3 or over 8.5 plus it can be run out of sump or in sump and water level doesnt matter

mrtian97 · Nov 29, 2015

let me know how it turns out, I may look another skimmer to supplement my cadlight after I get media reactor. My wife is thrilled of how much I have already spent while the tank is still cycling without any living thing in it yet

mrtian97 · Nov 29, 2015

how about bubble mangus skimmer?

Ryan15236 · Nov 29, 2015

Another option is the Aquamaxx EM series. I run a em2oo on my 125 gallon tank and love it. It is very quite and pulls more skimmate than my previous RO Diablo skimmer did. I think it is rated for 240 gallons but that would be incredibly lightly stocked I would think. Should have no problem handling the load of your tank.

Dtackett · Nov 29, 2015

personally I would do a SCA 302. but I like the idea of being able to take the bottom off for cleaning and you cant do that with the sca lol

Fafaflunky · Nov 30, 2015

So I ended up going with the Vertex Omega 180I, bought the 120g tank and stand, and a bunch of other stuff that should be arriving this week. Planning on setting up the tank this weekend. My dry rock should be delivered today. very excited to be getting started.