Help choosing skimmer

mrvn · Jun 19, 2017

Hi everyone!

I want to upgrade/change my vertex 130 for another skimmer but there are so many options out there that I don't know how to choose the correct one. The reason why I want to upgrade my vertex is because is a little too big for the skimmer section in my sum. It does an amazing job and it is fairly quiet and easy to tune but sometimes if the skimmer pump moves for any reason it touches the sump and it starts making this annoying sound produced by the vibration on the acrylic.

So, now I want to upgrade it for another skimmer with a smaller footprint since I'm using the zeovit program and I really want to add a reactor but this is currently impossible with the vertex using all the space. I have a 75 gal with a 15 gal sump, my livestock is a flame angel, 2 clowns, a fairy wrasse, orchid dottyback and two shrimps. I was considering a SP187 Piramid Internal Protein Skimmer or a NYOS 120 but I'm open to suggestions. Thanks!

Cory · Jun 20, 2017

What size of a space for the skimmer is needed minus the zeovit reactor?

Rufus’ goofs · Jun 20, 2017

Is getting a bigger sump an option? I'd go insane if I had to put all my equipment for my 75 in a 15 gallon sump.

kazikage42 · Jun 20, 2017

There's the bubble magus curve 5. I think the Skimmer is 7x7x18. Rated up to 140 gallons and got great reviews.

mrvn · Jun 20, 2017

For now I have a UP22 skimz sump but I will also upgrade that one for an emerald trigger systems 26. The skimmer section is smaller (8.25ib x10in) on the trigger systems sump but I get a refugium section which will be used for more equipment.

mrvn · Jun 20, 2017

Ergodyne said:
Is getting a bigger sump an option? I'd go insane if I had to put all my equipment for my 75 in a 15 gallon sump.

I only have 36 inches (length) under the cabinet and I'm using some of that space for my ATO.

Torqued · Jun 21, 2017

mrvn said:
I only have 36 inches (length) under the cabinet and I'm using some of that space for my ATO.

I would find another place for the RO unit and get a bigger sump. I used a 30g long under my 75g back in the day. It was sufficient...no idea how you are using a 15g sump.

mrvn · Jul 12, 2017

So... I pulled the trigger on the Skimz SP187 and it just arrived yesterday. My first impression is that it does not look as good as the vertex 130 I used to have which makes me wonder if I should go with a different skimmer. I haven't tested it since I'm not sure I want to keep it, I been looking for more information about it but I haven't find anything.

skim · Jul 12, 2017

Well with the pump being on the outside of the body on the Vertex you will have a larger volume of water then with one with pump inside body which will give you better contact time, but if you have no choice then I would suggest this unit. Direct copy of Bubble King and works very well as I have used one. It also comes in a smaller size 110.

Attractive, Ultra Compact and Affordable Filtration

The sleek and compact Reef Octopus Classic 150SSS in-sump protein skimmer supplies powerful filtration for aquariums up to 210 gallons where sump space may be limited.

The Reef Octopus Classic 150SSS is constructed of high-quality acrylic that can be completely disassembled for cleaning. Equipped with the new Aquatrance pinwheel pump, it produces an ideal mix of water and air for optimum waste removal. A simple vented wedge valve output provides precision control and allows cleaned water to exit the skimmer below water for quiet operation. Also available in the smaller Classic 110SSS model.

Internal model designed for in-sump use only. No feed pump required, skimmer draws water directly from sump.
Filtration Handling
- 210 Gallon – Light Filtration Demand | 180 Gallon – Medium Filtration Demand | 120 Gallon – Heavy Filtration Demand

Small Footprint - Big Performance
Reef Octopus Aquatrance 2000s Skimmer Pump
Removable Turbulence Reducing Bubble Plate
Disassembles for Cleaning
Quiet and Energy Efficient Operation
Latest Output Design for Quiet Bubble-free Outflow
Solid Acrylic Construction

TECHNICAL SPECS

Body Size: 6in
Footprint: 7.3in x 9.5in
Neck Size:
Total Height: 20.9in
Output Size: 1.25in

Recommended Sump
Water Height: 7 - 8in

Pump Information
Aquatrance 2000s Pinwheel Pump
Max Flow: 198gph
Max Air: 720L/H, 25.2SCFH
Power Consumption: 18watts
Dimensions: 4.5in x 2.4in x 3.6in

mrvn · Jul 18, 2017

Any experiences with the Bubble King 180? I think the best BK would be the 130 but I was wondering if the 180 with the new controllable pump can be used for my tank.

mrvn · Jul 18, 2017

I forgot to mention that I'm downgrading this tank to a Reefer 250

. Also, I have changed my sump for a 34 Synergy Reef which can fit any of the skimmers I mentioned before.

Kyle Sicard · Jul 19, 2017

With Bubble King Skimmers you do not want to oversize the skimmer. Honestly BK skimmers can skim larger volume tanks then what they are rated for. I bought a BK skimmer that ended being to large and wouldn't skim consistently due to being too large. BK skimmers are awesome and would be a great choice but buy one that is not too large for your system so you don't end up doing what I did.

mrvn · Jul 20, 2017

Kyle Sicard said:
With Bubble King Skimmers you do not want to oversize the skimmer. Honestly BK skimmers can skim larger volume tanks then what they are rated for. I bought a BK skimmer that ended being to large and wouldn't skim consistently due to being too large. BK skimmers are awesome and would be a great choice but buy one that is not too large for your system so you don't end up doing what I did.

Thanks! I think I will go with the BK 130.