Hey Guys. On day 4 of my cycle today! (yay)
Running Bio-Spira & Dr Tims. Numbers seem to be doing well. Bio-spira suggested to wait at least 48 hours before turning on the protein skimmer, which I did. Here's a pic of the tank!
(black backing just came in)
Finally got it on, and after a lot of adjusting, this seems the best I can get from it. I know there is no protein for it to skim at the moment, so the foam isn't going to be the best, but here are my questions:
Main Question:
Microbubbles. Microbubbles everywhere! haha
Things I've done prior to running my skimmer (at all): bio-spira & dr tims ammonia. Epoxy'd dry rock (48 hours prior). In a 55 gal tank, currently have 35 lb dry rock & 60lb live sand.
Are these microbubbles normal, as part of a break in? Does it have anything to do w/ the epoxy/current bacteria levels? I already had a replacement unit - but its the same issue.
I can minimize the effect when I have the waste gate elbow on(see below), with a sponge to catch some of the bubbles before they hit the water, but I would rather see if there's a proper way to solidify the problem instead of covering it w/ a bandaid.
Bonus Questions
1) this little piece that attaches to the pump - I can take it off yeah? Figured it would be easier for the device to pick up bigger pieces of protein
2) Is it ok to take the wastegate elbow off? Currently I get the best air/water flow with this bad boy off. Too much water pressure w/ it on, even fully open
3) Is this level of foam ok once I get livestock in the tank? I know there will be adjustments to be made.
Thanks!
Running Bio-Spira & Dr Tims. Numbers seem to be doing well. Bio-spira suggested to wait at least 48 hours before turning on the protein skimmer, which I did. Here's a pic of the tank!
(black backing just came in)
Finally got it on, and after a lot of adjusting, this seems the best I can get from it. I know there is no protein for it to skim at the moment, so the foam isn't going to be the best, but here are my questions:
Main Question:
Microbubbles. Microbubbles everywhere! haha
Things I've done prior to running my skimmer (at all): bio-spira & dr tims ammonia. Epoxy'd dry rock (48 hours prior). In a 55 gal tank, currently have 35 lb dry rock & 60lb live sand.
Are these microbubbles normal, as part of a break in? Does it have anything to do w/ the epoxy/current bacteria levels? I already had a replacement unit - but its the same issue.
I can minimize the effect when I have the waste gate elbow on(see below), with a sponge to catch some of the bubbles before they hit the water, but I would rather see if there's a proper way to solidify the problem instead of covering it w/ a bandaid.
Bonus Questions
1) this little piece that attaches to the pump - I can take it off yeah? Figured it would be easier for the device to pick up bigger pieces of protein
2) Is it ok to take the wastegate elbow off? Currently I get the best air/water flow with this bad boy off. Too much water pressure w/ it on, even fully open
3) Is this level of foam ok once I get livestock in the tank? I know there will be adjustments to be made.
Thanks!
