Skimmer Overkill

sc8kv123 · Dec 17, 2015

Hey,

I've been debating on which route I should go with on a skimmer. I'm setting up a 75g with a 30 gallon sump (a 20 long connected to a 10 gallon). I have a Deltec APF600 that I was planning on using but was wondering if this would be too much for my tank. I'm new to using a skimmer of this size and just want to hear thoughts. Thank you!

twilliard · Dec 17, 2015

I run an Orphek helix 5000 on 80 gallons

No such thing as over sizing IMO

AlexG · Dec 17, 2015

I dont think it is overkill. If the skimmer is pulling too and there is a negative impact on the tank it can be adjusted or set to run only part of the day. I would rather have a skimmer that is bigger than needed than not big enough.

sc8kv123 · Dec 17, 2015

twilliard said:
I run an Orphek helix 5000 on 80 gallons
No such thing as over sizing IMO

Great! The skimmer was given to me and i've been really excited to put it to use.

sc8kv123 · Dec 17, 2015

Now, would it be better for me to gravity feed it from one of my drains pipes or should I have it fed from the manifold coming off of the return pump?

TCFletch · Dec 17, 2015

You can never overkill on a skimmer! The bigger and more powerful the better. Deltec excellent brand.

twilliard · Dec 17, 2015

I have always had my skimmers set up in the overflow chamber.
The goal is to collect the organics before it gets returned to the tank.
From there my next section, the refugium, lives off of what the skimmer missed.

constantflow · Dec 17, 2015

If your skimmer it too big the crud will tend to collect lower and possibly require more frequent cleaning (as in tear downs). As I can see I am in the minority though.

twilliard · Dec 17, 2015

TCFletch said:
You can never overkill on a skimmer! The bigger and more powerful the better. Deltec excellent brand.

Here is what I have learned over many years. Most all skimmers follow the same design.

KingTriton · Dec 17, 2015

constantflow said:
If your skimmer it too big the crud will tend to collect lower and possibly require more frequent cleaning (as in tear downs). As I can see I am in the minority though.

I prefer to use a properly sized skimmer as well. I find that they preform better... just in my experience though.

sc8kv123 · Dec 17, 2015

Great feedback from all of you! I appreciate all of it..including the minority! I want to hear both sides of the story. All ideas, opinions, experience stories are welcome!