Looking for small tank filter upgrades?

[Jojo92]

Hey all!

So I have a 25g tank, it’s an all in one. I have the basic filtration with a giant sponge in the first back chamber, these ceramic pieces in the second, and the return pump in the third.

I’ve been noticing build up on the surface of my water so I’d like to address that specifically. But if you have recommendations on things I can add to the back of my tank please let me know!!!

just leave the technical names of the products you recommend so I can look them up please!
Thanks!

 

[Sick_man]

I'm new to this but I'm guessing you can add a protein skimmer to one of those chambers. Also is there any surface agitation? I had some stuff on the surface but I got a stronger filter with more surface agitation and the stuff went away.

 

[Jojo92]

I'm new to this but I'm guessing you can add a protein skimmer to one of those chambers. Also is there any surface agitation? I had some stuff on the surface but I got a stronger filter with more surface agitation and the stuff went away.

I’ve been looking into protein skimmers and surface skimmers. I’m not quite sure how they’re different at this point... maybe get both if I can find smaller ones that fit? I can’t think of any agitation that would be affecting my tank really. I have my inward pump facing down so it doesn’t really hit my surface directly if that makes sense?

sorry I also don’t really know the correct terms for some things lol

 

[Sick_man]

Try facing the pump more upwards so that the water isn't stagnant or sitting still. If the water is moving on top it'll help oxygenate it.

 

[Jojo92]

Try facing the pump more upwards so that the water isn't stagnant or sitting still. If the water is moving on top it'll help oxygenate it.

I’ll give that a try thanks!

 

[Sick_man]

No problem, good luck!