Protein Skimmer Setup

[jaxteller007]

So I have added a new Aquatop HOB protein skimmer. I'm not 100% sure it's set up right in regards to the return lines. Should the foam around them be completely submerged or is how they are set up ok?

 

[glb]

The skimmer directions should have the ideal height for the water. I usually dial my bubbles in to right below the skimmer cup, which is slightly above my water line. Tinker with it a little and it will dial in. Good luck!

 

[jaxteller007]

The skimmer directions should have the ideal height for the water. I usually dial my bubbles in to right below the skimmer cup, which is slightly above my water line. Tinker with it a little and it will dial in. Good luck!

Unfortunately I did not see anything in the instructions about water level other than make sure the pump is submerged. You can see how high the cup is above my water line. It won't go any lower unless i find some way to either notch the aquarium lip or something else on the skimmer to have it sit lower.

What I'm really wondering is if those black foam wraps need to be completely submerged or what.

 

[glb]

I just noticed that it’s a hang-on. I’d just dial in the bubbles until you’re getting the kind of skimmate you want. You might want to go online for instructions. I have an in-tank skimmer and that is what I based my earlier post on.

 

[jaxteller007]

I just can't seem to get it dialed in correctly. It's either a tank full of bubbles, or no bubbles at all in the skimmer (on top of being loud). I did read that they have a break in period where they will make a ton of bubbles but didn't know if that was true or not. Maybe it's just too big (rated for 100 and I have it on a 75) or those foam wraps need to be completely submerged.