Need Help with picking a Skimmer

[Jasontkd]

I am setting up a 90 gallon reef with a Tideline 30" refugium sump. I am trying to select a skimmer that will fit in it that will do a really good job, and be as quiet as possible. I would also like to stay under $350 (if possible)

Here is a link to the sump.

TideLine Sump 30" x 16"

www.dfwaquarium.com

The skimmer chamber says it is 8" x 11"

I really like the Bubble Curve 7, but I think it might be cutting it pretty close on the dimensions.

Can anyone suggest a nice skimmer, assuming heavy bioload?

 

[joseserrano]

I’d look into aquamaxx, Tunze, or reef octo.

 

[AcanthurusRex]

The RedSea has a neck cleaner and cup drain.

 

[Jasontkd]

Most of these units that seem to have a footprint that will fit in the sump, don't handle the bioload I am looking for. That is what I am finding with the manufacturer's listed.

Aquamaxx fits the footprint, and the bioload, but I have read some pretty big negatives about these skimmers.

 

[Jasontkd]

Does anyone think the Curve 7 would fit in that chamber and have enough room to work properly?

 

[Scurvy]

I have tried two Bubble Magus skimmers and didnt have luck with either. The Curve 5 and the Curve 8 DC model I think it was. I dislike DC pumps on a skimmer, just one more variable that needs to be right. I have had great results with Nyos, both the 120 and then upgraded to a used 160 with a tank upgrade to 110g. Tried pulling the 160 and going to a Deltec DC model recently and over 3 months no matter what i did I couldnt get it to skim consistently. With the Nyos I pull a dark, full cup every Saturday morning like clockwork. The Deltec i emptied three times in 3 months and will now be selling off.

I'd look for a used Nyos 160 or similarly sized Reef Octopus with an AC pump. Should do you well in a 90. I am sure DC pumps have a place with skimmers but they haven't worked out for me at all. Maybe in much larger systems? IDK

 

[K7BMG]

The best skimmers are of the recirculating type.
There are both internal and external versions.
External may be best in your case with limited space.
You could then use the sumps skimmer section for other equipment down the road.

With a 350 dollar budget you will have to compromise.

I have a Curve 7 or 8 I dont remember but it did work for me when I had it in use with my 140g. I also have never had a heavy bioload.

 

[AcanthurusRex]

Deltec 400

 

[Phil D.]

Red Sea 600 will fit the bill

 

[Potatohead]

Octo 150sss will fit without a problem and is easily large enough

 

[S2G]

I despise the BM curve skimmers I've had. I have a curve 9 now & I'm kicking it to the curb soon. Finicky skimmers & I'm always messing with it.

That tight of space I'd go tunze. A 9410 should fit.

 

[Jasontkd]

The Red Sea 600 has too big of a footprint. The Octo150SS says it won't handle a 90 gallon with heavy bioload. It might, and I may not have a heavy bioload, I jest want to be prepared in case I do.

I love Tunze products, but have not experience with their skimmers. Will it handle the load?

 

[K7BMG]

Click here

This is within your budget and is sized for your tank.
Seriously doubt you could go wrong.

 

[1ByLand2BySea]

Its a bit over your budget but Nyos 120 fits perfectly in that sump and does a great job in a 90G.

 

[Potatohead]

The Red Sea 600 has too big of a footprint. The Octo150SS says it won't handle a 90 gallon with heavy bioload. It might, and I may not have a heavy bioload, I jest want to be prepared in case I do.

I love Tunze products, but have not experience with their skimmers. Will it handle the load?

?

Coralvue's website rates it to 120 heavy bioload. It's a 6" straight body skimmer with 650+ l/h of air draw, it will do it no problem.

 

[Pntbll687]

I really like my eshopps axium. I have the x-220 on my large system, and the x-120 on my frag system.

I believe the x120 is only 6" wide

 

[fishguy242]

octopus tried and true

 

[Jasontkd]

Octo 150SSS is rated significantly lower on BRS. That makes me pretty nervous about its capability.

 

[ReefHog]

I love Tunze products, but have not experience with their skimmers. Will it handle the load?

I have three different Tunze skimmer models in service right now. The 9410/9410DC would work great for a 90. The only draw back is that the 9410 & 9410DC models have a smaller collection cup and no drain option. So if you have a heavy bio load, you'll have to clean it more often. I really wish Tunze would address that. That being said, you won't find a better skimmer in that size and with that footprint. They are truly set and forget with perfect skim every time. I'll never use a non tunze skimmer again.

 

[fishguy242]

Octo 150SSS is rated significantly lower on BRS. That makes me pretty nervous about its capability.

no worries ,no problem! will handle as much as you can put in a 90