Skimmer recommendation.opinions wanted

foxt · Sep 25, 2019

Don Lidtke said:
I am extremely happy with my LIFEREEF VENTURI PROTEIN SKIMMERS SVS3-36 External. It’s on my 250 gallon tank. I didn’t have room in my sump so the external option worked great.

OP said that he wanted to stay with Reef Octopus, so I didn't chime in with my vote for Lifereef. I have three of these in different systems, ranging from 24" to 48" tall, and after having tried others over time, I keep going with Lifereef. No drama with tuning it, or need for special pumps, and a breeze to keep clean, plus the guy who builds them is super supportive and responsive.

ReefHog · Sep 25, 2019

lpsouth1978 said:
Tunze is definitely an option. I did some measuring this morning and I don't think the RO 220int will fit. The skimmer section in my sump is 10x15.4" and I have my heaters in there. The Skimmer is simply too big. In order to fit it, I would have to remove the dividing wall AND my Marinepure blocks. This is not going to be a viable option. I guess it is back to the drawing board.

The simplicity 320DC is looking like a better option.

Here's a pic of my 3430DC for size reference.

lpsouth1978 · Sep 25, 2019

I definitely dont have space for the Lifereef skimmers, though maybe someday when I have a dedicated fish room.

I researched the Tunze skimmers and would have to go with the 9410 because the 9430 is just way too big for the space I have.

melanotaenia · Sep 25, 2019

I would go Deltec, but they are definitely not in the affordable category.

lpsouth1978 · Sep 27, 2019

I picked up the RO Classic 200int last night, from my nephew, and got it installed. It BARELY fit in the chamber, but it is in and running. It seems like it will do a good job. My only concern is that it is loud. By FAR the loudest thing in the entire area. I can hear it sitting on the couch 20 feet away. The noise alone may warrant purchasing a different skimmer, which is disappointing, since this is was free.