Protein Skimmer (hang on back) (new guy)

reef4Tom · Jun 15, 2015

Looking for advice for a protein skimmer. And I know I'm not the first to ask. I've searched and read some threads regarding the subject. I have a 75gal that I will be setting up soon. I had originally planned to do a canister filtration system. After reading on here, it seems like a canister filtration system will be less effective than a protein skimmer. Running a sump isn't something I really want to mess with so my option will be a hang on back. Anyone with experience with these please chime in. I will also plan on having plenty of live rock. As stupid as this sounds, I want to spend as little time cleaning the tank but I still want healthy fish and coral. Is a protein skimmer the best alternative? Also, can I run both canister filtration and (HOB) skimmer? Maybe this is overkill, or unnecessary to run both? Be kind, I'm a noob to this. Thanks for all your input.

Reefing Madness · Jun 15, 2015

Gotta go protein skimmer with a 75g tank
http://www.marinedepot.com/AquaMaxx...ein_Skimmers-AquaMaxx-UJ1151-FIPSHONW-vi.html

For your sized tank, I'd seriously think about this one
http://www.marinedepot.com/Reef_Oct...kimmers-Reef_Octopus-CV20197-FIPSHOVS-vi.html

But if you have the $$ then this is the best for your tank:
http://www.customaquatic.com/estore/control/product/~product=PS-SWC-HOT

The Kahnasaur · Jun 15, 2015

Your not going to over filter the tank so running a protein skimmer and a canister would work. However, as you said you don't want to put a ton of time into cleaning, so I wouldn't use a canister at all. They are only useful if kept constantly clean. Consider an Algae Turf Scrubber. Since you wouldn't have a sump, Santa Monica offers great setups that you could put in the back of your display without being to rough on the eyes. It might cost you more than a protein skimmer, but could be more effective (depending on the skimmer). I was running a HOB skimmer on my 40 gal and it wasn't cutting it, so now I run the skimmer and the ATS and I'm much happier, as are my corals.

jdpeters · Jun 15, 2015

i have a canister for my reef tank man and hate it. opening it up and cleaning it out is a pain, no matter how careful i am i still get residual water on my floor. then i lose lots of micro fauna in the cleaning process. there are alot of people that experience success with a canister, myself included. Yet the maintenance aspect is whats a really pain. Do whatever works for you man, and dont let other peoples opinions sway you so much. At the end of the day, its your tank.

Downbeach · Jun 15, 2015

I would suggest using a skimmer, not only to remove the DOC's, but also the aeration/gas exchange it provides. I found the RO BH-90 a good choice, and a good size for your system.

reef4Tom · Jun 24, 2015

I have a sunsun canister running now (with UV light). I purchased a protein skimmer/refugium that I will run on the 75 gallon tank once it's up an running. I am debating on running the canister with it. I guess, I'll start by using it and see if I like using both, if not I can drop the canister filter and just run the live rock, refugium and skimmer. Thanks for the replies, keep em' coming.