Replace Skimz Pump or Buy New Skimmer?

TC3 · Nov 18, 2016

My Skimz pump (VSC2000DC) on my SN143 skimmer just went out yesterday and I've been debating to either replace it at around $85 or just buy the Reef Octopus 150sss around $263. I don't really have a lot of choice in skimmer as my sump is the Trigger Crystal 30. The skimmer area is only 11" x 11.5".

I'm leaning toward replacing the pump since the hobby fund is kind of tight right now due to the upcoming holiday but I've read that the Skimz pumps are not really liable but I'm not sure if the newer one are better. Or did they just change the model # from VSC2000DC to VSWP-VSC2.1.

Please let me know your thoughts.

Thanks in advance.

mcarroll · Nov 18, 2016

I disagree on not having many good choices, but in most cases it makes sense to replace an impeller (most likely problem is most pump failures....try that first, if possible) or pump rather than the whole skimmer.

The main exception is if you hated your skimmer anyway....then replace it!

If you want some suggestions anyway, I usually point to Tunze and AquaC skimmers first.

Replacing your pump with a Tunze Hydrofoamer pump might be another avenue to consider if you want a higher quality pump. ($160 on up....email, call or message them here on R2R to get a specific recommendation.)

I notice the skimmer description on BRS admits to having a cruddy pump ("new updated pump...") so perhaps the new pump manufacturer spec. will be an OK use of money.

TC3 · Nov 19, 2016

Thanks @mcarroll

I will buy a new impeller as you suggested. My theory is that the new Skimz models have upgraded impeller as I saw something online where they upgraded the bushing. If this fix the pump issue, I'll just keep this skimmer as a backup since I do want a new skimmer. I'm currently looking at two right now, the 150sss and the Bubble Magus Curve 7. I will take a look at Tunze and AquaC as you suggested.