Need help choosing budget skimmer.

[Velcro]

I've downsized from a roughly 210ish gallon system to currently 50 gallon. I will probably end up at about 90-100 total system volume once I settle on a display. My current skimmer was arguably more than I needed for the 210g system, so I'm going to need to downsize.

Water height in skimmer section is about 11 inches. I'm fine with an AC pump and the stand is tall enough that anything designed for this volume won't be too tall. I'm casually looking at the $200ish dollar skimmers (aquamax, reef octopus). If the performance in the $300 dollar range is significantly better, I'm not against adjusting my budget.

If anyone who is selling a skimmer that fits this criteria sees this message and is willing to ship please let me know. Any advice appreciated.

 

[I’ma tempermental coral]

If you don’t mind me asking what skimmer were you running on your larger tank?

 

[vetteguy53081]

Ice Cap K2-50

 

[MJ in Boise]

Reef octo 150int classic. A 100int may be enough as well. You will need a skimmer stand (the reef octo one is great) or eggcrate to get to the right height. I run a 150 on both systems and love them.

 

[Peace River]

I have been using Reef Octopus skimmers for many years and they have been very reliable - I am currently running three on various systems. I agree with @MJ in Boise that a Reef Octopus 110INT or 150INT would both be good choices (I have used both of these skimmers). Good luck with whatever you choose!

 

[Velcro]

If you don’t mind me asking what skimmer were you running on your larger tank?

Using an older SWC skimmer with a big upgraded pump. It's a beast.

 

[I’ma tempermental coral]

Really? Interesting! I’m running an swc on my current system. Lol. Do you by chance remember which one and what pump you used?

 

[TheDuude]

I am running an Aquamaxx skimmer now and love it. Great build and the rebranded Sicce pump is dead silent. I think I picked mine up for less than 200$

 

[Velcro]

Really? Interesting! I’m running an swc on my current system. Lol. Do you by chance remember which one and what pump you used?

It's an SWC x200 with an upgraded pump (bubble blaster 3000). With the STOCK pump it's rated for 175 HEAVY bioload. With the upgraded pump.... who knows.