Skimmer choice

[Justin Hartmann]

So I really did not want to do a skimmer on this system but it is starting to look like I might have to do something. I need to get my nutrients in control and clear up the water a little bit. I am going to start dosing nopox which requires a skimmer to run. I have been looking into all the options and just need some help as I have no idea how these things work. I was looking at a couple different options, the RO classic 90, RO classic 1000, I do like the price point of the classic 100 but do not like how the pump has to go in the tank. The only other thing that I though a little about was the hydor slim skim, I could stick that in the corner and it would appear in the tank as a corner overflow. Are there any experiences or information that would help me decide? I appreciate anything that can be offered. I must be a HOB style and is for a 30 gallon system. I am not sure if the classic 90 would be to much. Thanks

 

[LetItReef]

How about Aquamaxx HOB.

 

[Cory]

I really like the gate valve on my ro 200 int! Had a sca skimmer and it had a tube adjustment which sucks.

 

[ndrwater]

Just did a little research on the skimmer you mentioned. Although I don't think you can truly over skim, I agree the Classic 90 is probably overkill.
I am a big fan of Reef Octopus skimmers in general. Good build quality, good price point and reliable.
Do note that it seems almost all skimmer manufacturers over rate their skimmers IMO, so look for something a bit higher than your actual tank volume.
Another thing to look for is the size of the collection cup. If the collection cup only holds 1/4 cup, you will be messing with it more often than you would probably like.
Anything that has a drain plug for draining into an additional container is a good option too. But... Be wary as an overflowing skimmer coupled with an ATO can throw things out of whack rather quickly. Especially in a small-ish tank.

 

[Mr. Bill]

I've heard a lot of good things about the Slim Skim as far as performance. The only issue is that the water level must remain constant... it was actually designed to go in the rear filter compartment of an AIO. I've used the Red Sea Prism and SeaClone skimmers on smaller tanks with good results. The SeaClone has an external pump that goes inside the tank, though. IMHO however, out of all the skimmers I've had, it was the easiest to adjust and clean. Be wary of cheap nano skimmers. IME, those that actually work don't last long.

 

[Tautog]

Sorry to break into your on this topic, but here's where, imo, you need to spend the extra bucks, it's worth it, and you will be sorry if you don't. I use a Reef Octopus 2000 int. It's easy to clean, has a hose to empty, easy to adjust, pump is easy to clean and service. I believe it's the best bang for the buck. Money well spent, one time!

 

[ndrwater]

Sorry to break into your on this topic, but here's where, imo, you need to spend the extra bucks, it's worth it, and you will be sorry if you don't. I use a Reef Octopus 2000 int. It's easy to clean, has a hose to empty, easy to adjust, pump is easy to clean and service. I believe it's the best bang for the buck. Money well spent, one time!

I agree the RO 2000 is a really good skimmer, but what he needs is a HOB for a 30 gallon tank.. A BIT overkill methinks

 

[Cory]

Ive used my 200 int ro on a 30 gallon. It never stopped skimming. Its going into a 250 gallon system soon.

Dont let people fool you into thinking a skimmer will prevent algae from growing because it wont.
Gfo, an huge refugium or an algae turf scrubber will prevent algae from growing. My current 30 gallon doesnt have a skimmer in use atm. But a skimmer helps a little. Oh yeah biopellets and vodka dosing help with algae too.