skimmer questions???

[b-gin-86]

I am wanting to maybe upgrade my current protein skimmer and/or get one for my 30gal. I have a larger protein skimmer on my 92gal bowfront but I don't know how good it is, it came with the tank when I bought it. I have a 30gal without a skimmer but I want one on it badly. the 92 has about a 25 gallon sump and the 30 has a 15 gal sump. Im getting ready to order some acrylic and make a lager sump for my 30gal. the sump will probably be around 20 or 25 gallons. I looked online a few places but I haven't really found much on what size or type of skimmer would be good. some say it is the pump? my skimmer looks to be kinda old compared to the ones I see online. does anyone have any suggestions or input about skimmers (size, brand, features) thanks in advance. the 92 has 4 fish for now it has only been set up about 8 months. (clown, cole tang, yellow tang, and a small fish). the 30 has four fish also. foxface, clown, bicolor angel, six line wrasse. thanks

 

[b-gin-86]

I have been researching the different types of skimmers and im a little overwhelmed with all the differences with the skimmers. For instances, what is a venture and what is a needle wheel. I would like to have some control over my flow. I really need to look at skimmers in person and see for myself but my LFS is over an hour away. hopefully I can make it down there next week!

 

[VicD81]

Venturi refers to the cone shape of most skimmer (Sometimes called cone Skimmers).
Needle wheel referes to the way the pumps makes bubbles. In a needle wheel, the pump it sucks in air and water and the "needle wheel" chops up the big bubbles into micro bubbles needed to trap proteins for extraction.

Look for something with a needle wheel (Which is the majority of skimmers). The ones with airstones are a pain in the buns. You need to keep replacing airstones often.

Set a budget and search for skimmer within your budget.