When to start using Protein Skimmer?

[mdbueno1977]

When should I get my Protein Skimmer up & running? Started live fish cycling 1 week ago (2 clowns), used Dr. Tim's & live sand. Unless I'm testing wrong (Salifert kits), my ammonia & Nitrite levels are at or around zero & my Nitrates are between 1 & 2. Thanks

 

[Brandon Smith]

I don't think you need one right now. Personally I have had to put mine on a timer, or my nutrients bottom out. When you start having a hard controlling nitrates, then I would start using it. I don't think it would really hurt anything to run now if you want to though.

 

[jpbeen]

Start now; enjoy!

 

[esther]

When should I get my Protein Skimmer up & running? Started live fish cycling 1 week ago (2 clowns), used Dr. Tim's & live sand. Unless I'm testing wrong (Salifert kits), my ammonia & Nitrite levels are at or around zero & my Nitrates are between 1 & 2. Thanks

I started using it day one so I could get used to tuning it, etc. I'm glad I did, because it took me a while to dial it in and it was dialed in as soon as I added fish.

 

[mdbueno1977]

I don't think you need one right now. Personally I have had to put mine on a timer, or my nutrients bottom out. When you start having a hard controlling nitrates, then I would start using it. I don't think it would really hurt anything to run now if you want to though.

Thank you. I probably bought more than I needed to start, but had the money and wanted to be prepared.

 

[Slawman]

I would start using one now.

 

[mdbueno1977]

I started using it day one so I could get used to tuning it, etc. I'm glad I did, because it took me a while to dile it in and it was dialed in as soon as I added fish.

Thank you

 

[mdbueno1977]

I would start using one now.

Thanks

 

[mdbueno1977]

Start now; enjoy!

Thanks

 

[Wh1t3Rabbit]

Hi, following on this question, I am going to buy the Fluval Flex 32.5Gal salt water tank and plan on having a few simple corals, a few clowns, and maybe 1-3 other fish. The kit I’m looking at doesn’t come with a protein skimmer....do I need one? I’ve gone a year in a simple 10Gal tank without one, and am now moving to a bigger tank. Thanks.
For reference I’m looking at this: https://www.saltwateraquarium.com/c...vYJKPlAtAKFZYR5MfmdFErEeo7taBYUsaAimpEALw_wcB

 

[wonroc]

Get a nano skim. Just not the fluval.

 

[Pistondog]

Start now.
Skimmers are excellent for gas exchange.
I don't think it will happen but if your nitrates zero, take off the collection cup

 

[tvan]

Protein skimmers don't remove nitrates. They remove dissolved organic material, the same thing your corals take up. Surface movement provides the best gas exchange. Just what I've read (Eric Borneman)

 

[Pistondog]

Protein skimmers don't remove nitrates. They remove dissolved organic material, the same thing your corals take up. Surface movement provides the best gas exchange. Just what I've read (Eric Borneman)

You are correct regarding removing nitrates directly, the molecules are too small.
Protien skimmers remove dissolved and particulate organics that unless removed, breakdown into nitrates, phosphates and other stuff.
Would you mind linking the specific Eric Borneman material, he's very prolific.
I can't see how surface agitation beats a skimmer, but help me understand, if the link is handy.
Thanks.

 

[Pistondog]

Here's the 2nd of 3 of "the need to breathe"

http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2005-07/eb/index.php

Table 4 and 5 have some relevance

 

[Tiki Reef Joshua]

I run one and and feed heavy to get my nitrates where I want them.

 

[tvan]

Aquarium Corals Selection, Husbandry, and Natural History....
Eric Borneman Published by Microcosm
A link https://fishlab.com/surface-agitation
I do run a waterfall ATS..no skimmer.

 

[Jonify]

Now. Better gas exchange. The added benefits of reducing organics will come later.