Skimmer Sizing Question

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Skep18

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I've ordered a Reef Octopus Elite 220 INT skimmer for my 225gal 72"x24"x30" tank. I intend to have quite a large sump with a refugium and think I'll be on the closer side of "heavily stocked". I bought this over the 200 INT with the mindset of I didn't want to every out grow the skimmer.

The 200 INT is rated for 200gal heavily stocked.
The 220 INT is rated for 300gal heavily stocked.

I see people commenting that skimmers too large can actually be a bad thing. Am I going to regret getting the 220?
 
Just watched the BRS video on this, FAQ #24: Is having a protein skimmer that's rated larger than your tank advantageous? I know I'd seen it before but was a good reminder. I want to suspect I will be OK with the skimmer. However, as stated above, to remedy a over sized skimmer (within reason I'm sure) one could just feed more... Obviously add more fish too but that could have its limits. But I already know the wife and kid will dig the feeding not to mention I like the idea of food in the water column for coral.


Nonetheless, feel free to chime in!
 
Tech specs cuz I'm looking. Figured I'd share for posterity.

200INT:
- Super Cone Body: 8.27in to 5.12in
- Footprint: 15in x 11.2in
- Neck Size: 4.75in
- Total Height: 23.2in
- Output Size: 50mm / 1.5in
- Note: Recommended Sump Water Depth: 7.5-9in
- Reef Octopus VarioS-4S Pinwheel Pump
- - Power Consumption:25-40watts
- - Air Draw:800-1500 lph / 28-52 SCFH*
- - Water Draw:422gph

220INT:
- Super Cone Body: 9in
- Footprint: 16.5in x 12.2in
- Neck Size: 4.75in
- Total Height: 24.8in
- Output Size: 50mm / 1.5in
- Note: Recommended Sump Water Depth: 7.5-9in
- Reef Octopus VarioS 6S Controllable Pinwheel Pump
- - Power Consumption:35-70watts
- - Voltage:36V
- - Air Draw:1200-2400 lph / 42-84 SCFH*
- - Water Draw:528gph
 
I wouldn't worry about it, the age old advise was to always buy a 'plus 1' skimmer. Manufacturers always state best case numbers.
 
I wouldn't worry about it, the age old advise was to always buy a 'plus 1' skimmer. Manufacturers always state best case numbers.

I'm hoping the selection between the two falls into the above conversation. Being I'm between the two recommendations, I should think its close enough to become a preference conversation and not a functionality conversation.

As in other equipment, I try to buy bigger and keep it turned down for noise reasons, understanding running pumps at lower settings should be quieter.
 

IF YOU HAD TO TAKE A REEFING EXAM, WOULD YOU PASS?

  • Yes!

    Votes: 32 45.7%
  • Not yet, but I have one that I want to buy in mind!

    Votes: 9 12.9%
  • No.

    Votes: 26 37.1%
  • Other (please explain).

    Votes: 3 4.3%

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