3 More Questions

[kmf507]

1) In my move from a 55 to a 90 RR, I need a more powerful skimmer (will be in sump). Any strong recommendations? I'm looking at spending $200 tops and leaning towards the CSS. I currently use the CCS65 and think it is adequate, so I'm not against staying in the same family.

2) While purchasing plumbing for the sump, I ran across a check valve and am debating on whether to use it on the return line (in the event of a power outage). Recommended? How much would this inhibit the return pump going through the valve?

3) I'm leaning towards a mag drive 9.5. AGA says their overflows will move about 600 gph. I was looking at the smaller mag, but think the initial purchase of a stronger pump may be easier down the road. Suggestions? My thought is the stronger pump will strain less pushing the water through the check valve and will give me room for any future changes.

4) Any strong thoughts on refugium mud? Would it be a much better choice than some sand, lr, and cheato?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Im Lon 2]

1. Skimmer is one the many thing is this hobby I would not skimp on. Check out this one http://www.thereefstop.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=31_202&products_id=532 You can mod the impeller on this and it would work even better for only a couple bucks.

2. Check valves are pricey and do cut back flow quite a bit. just drill a small hole in the top of your return pipe coming back into the tank so it breaks syphon. (just below the water line)

3. Use both holes in the overflow box for drains. Return your lines over the back of the tank. This will give you a little more flow, plus you could always feed your skimmer from the smaller pipe.

4. I have never tried the mud, but have always wanted to.

 

[latazyo]

1. if price is a big thing, try the octopus skimmers or look for a used euro reef

2. check valve shmeck valve...drill a hole like Lonnie said...just make sure you clean it with a toothpick every now and then if there's algae or other BS in there

3. agree with lonnie

4. never had mud...I just use live rock and macro...no sand either for me

 

[StupidsReef]

1. I agree with Lonnie

2. Do as suggested in above post.

3 If you do as suggested buy Lonnie, make sure you place a ball valve on the smaller pipe that will feed the skimmer. This way you can then control the flow (not sure way Lonnie didn't mention that) so not to have to much flow through the skimmer.

4. same as Lonnie here as well.

 

[Im Lon 2]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8876261#post8876261 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by StupidsReef
3 If you do as suggested buy Lonnie, make sure you place a ball valve on the smaller pipe that will feed the skimmer. This way you can then control the flow (not sure way Lonnie didn't mention that) so not to have to much flow through the skimmer.

Sorry, I left that chapter out!

 

[sirreal63]

I didn't know Lonnie was for sale? If someone does buy Lonnie...how many hours before his wife has a party to celebrate?

I would also agree with what was posted above.

 

[StupidsReef]

:lol2: Opps my bad. I'd give her 5 min. and she hunt him down like a mad woman.