9004 Skimmer Performance

[Cysco]

I just wanted to ask if my 9004 would skim better if I cleaned it up real good or if it needs to stay somewhat "dirty"?

I ask because here lately it doesn't seem to be skimming anything but light colored foam. I'm not sure if this is a function of less DOC in the water or if I need to clean it or make adjustments.

 

[rvitko]

Cleaning will likely make it more watery, I would raise the skimmer a little and possibly close the air a little, this can also be a normal reaction to additives, suspended dust, etc. In general you should only have to break it down and clean it every 6 months and cleaning will usually result in lighter skimmate as you will be back to maximum air flow.

 

[Cysco]

Well I've had it a year and never cleaned it internally. I just feel like there is nothing to skim based on the looks of the skimate. Its essentially clear.

 

[rvitko]

At a year, it is probably time to clean it, but it is unlikely that this will darken the skimmate, raising the skimmer and reducing the air flow are the main things that would darken it. The type/amount of organics present also has an impact.