Skimmer help

[Icaros]

Hi Everyone.

I have a Vertex 150. Its about 3 years old. Today I decided to take it apart completely and clean it like new. Now the skimmer won't stop overflowing.

Why is this happening and what do I do in the future to clean it?

 

[sbash]

Sounds like the skimmer needs to break itself in again. There is an infamous slime coating on everything in your tank, including the skimmer. Once established, the skimmer will start performing properly. It is common for new skimmers to do this, i.e. they are not established and lack the 'slime coat' (and need to be 'broken in').

I only clean my skimmer when it has a build up of detritus or other particulate (such as skimmate that has fallen inside). When I do, I just give it a quick blast of fresh water (to clear the debris), then I put it back together.

That said, follow the manufacturers recommendation on cleaning the unit, especially the pump.

 

[Icaros]

I always just rinse it to get detritus off and never had an issue, but today i want to town. Sponge vinegar and all. Looks brand new.
I guess i have to wait again.

Thanks