How long do skimmers last?

[MartyF]

I have had my Eshopps protein skimmer for about a year now and the motor seems to be giving out. I have done vinegar soaks every other week over night and it helps at first but then after a weeks or so the motor goes back to performing weakly and struggling to create bubbles in the chamber. It is an in sump skimmer.

 

[twilliard]

With good routine cleaning should last several years. Some motor designs are better than others when it comes to rotor heating and cooling.

 

[Reeferdood]

^^^^^^^^ +1^^^^^^^
Mine has lasted over 4 years, still skimming like a champ!

 

[mcarroll]

The impeller is the part that typically wears out, so try a new one. It should be half the cost of a new pump – or less.

If that doesn't work, you need to replace the motor body (if possible) or just get a whole new pump.
(And the impeller you tried is your new spare....or return it if you can.)

 

[roberthu526]

Did you try to clean the skimmer neck? Usually with skim mate build up within the body the efficiency decreases.