New Skimmer

[JohnA26]

So I am getting a new skimmer this weekend. Presently my sump goes like this, overflow into a sock (I'm considering no sock, what are your thoughts), under sock bio balls and carbon media, next chamber skimmer, next chamber return.

In the future I would like a refugium, therefore I would need to move skimmer to first chamber, correct? Is this possible or is my sump too basic and not sufficient for a refugium?

Next question, I understand it may take a week or 2 to run the skimmer without the cup to break it in? Is this true and how do I know when it is ready? I acquired my present set up and didn't make any adjustments, cycling and such and Im about a year in.

Thank you in advance for all the knowledge and advise I'm hoping comes my way!!!

 

[Pistondog]

No sox is great.
Run the skimmer overflowing for a few days. Then try to dial it in so the bubbles increase in size above the neck, without overflowing the collection cup. Eventually the bubbles will get large enough, inch or more, to break over the cup as doc concentration in the bubbles increases.

 

[FishyDP]

Filter socks are great, if you keep up with changing them. If not, they are a nutrient sink that can mess with your sump water level when filled with water from being clogged with ditritus..then salinity is an issue if u have an ato. I don't use them because of this. I just put power heads in my sump to keep detritus suspended and flowing into filtration. I always keep an urchin/hermits in the sump too, they require less maintenance than socks and eat leftover food ect.

I personally don't worry too much if my skimmer comes before my refugium or after. They will still generally perform the same function. Others will says it's important which comes first.