What makes a skimmer good or not

[Harold Green]

Perhaps not. You didn't mention what model and if used. Is it set in a sump or hanging on the back of the tank? Is your water level in the sump the right height for that model skimmer? Have you made skimmer flow adjustments? Both control bubble height in the skimmer. A larger pump will flow more water but not necessarily fix skimmer adjustment issues. Higher water around the skimmer will raise bubbles as will slowing water exiting the skimmer. Increased air flow will also help some. No skimmer will work well without the proper adjustments.

 

[kattz]

And as someone else said, Lifereef. Been working great for 20+ years, same design, great and loyal following for a reason. Check out the Lifereef skimmer forum at the reefing centrally website and the Youtube videos from owners of these units. I'm getting an SVS-3-24 for my 90g and to go to a 400-600g capacity, all I have to do is add a 24" flanged extension to the body. So smart it's boring...

 

[Breakthecycle2]

Elos has a new prototype that the Elos here in NJ has. Im not sure if it's "publicly" known or not, however, this thing looks like a work of art and has some crazy spiral thing going on at the base. Super quiet too.

 

[Esm]

Acua medic acone 1.5?

 

[hyperionfall]

One skimmer that does not get much attention is the Avast CS series. They have a pre-built or a build it yourself kit. I have the CS-2 recirc do it yourself for a very good price and a little work. It is just as good as my reef oct as far as performance. It also has a charcoal grey body so algae does not grow in it (except the cup) and it does not discolor like clear body skimmers. I also got the auto cup cleaner and skimate locker for less than most high end skimmers alone that I would put it up against. The only thing I have an issue with is the adjuster knob. It feels cheap and does not turn easily sometimes. All in all I feel it is the best bang for the buck out there.