Protein Skimmer. One big or two small ?

[Anthony Mckay]

Hello all,
My new system is just topping out at 4500 litres and I've been looking at skimmers and as I suspected for this volume they're mostly the size of a trash can !!!
My question is can you get the same results running two smaller skimmers instead of one SATURN V rocket size one ????
Any advice, experience or just to call me a fool would be gratefully appreciated.
Thanks
Anthony

 

[mcarroll]

Somewhat. It's generally more efficient to run one though....even for space.

For example:

Master DOC Skimmer 9480
(9480.000)
Recommended for salt water aquariums up to
8,000 liters (2,100 USgal.).
Immersion depth from 160 to 370 mm (6.2 to 14.5 in.)
Water flow rate: 5,200 l/h (1,373 USgal./h)
Air capacity: 3,400 l/h (898 USgal./h)
Energy consumption: 60 W, 230V/50Hz (115V/60Hz)
Skimmer cup volume: 7 liters (1.8 USgal.)
Dimensions of the skimmer cup including lid: ø320 x H.261 mm (12.60" x H. 10.28")
Dimensions (L x W x H): 530 x 500 x 700 mm (20.8 x 19.6 x 27.5 in.)
To be able to take off skimmer cup it must be raised by 63 mm (2.48") at least.

1,401.01 USD

This is a pretty compact design and rated about right for your system. Compare it's footprint vs two or three smaller alternatives that add up to the same rated volume.