9400.040 on 9015 ?? Skimmer question

[bolza171]

Roger,

Would you know if Tunze is planning to adapt the new pump 9400.040 at DOC Skimmer 9015?

I currently have a 9015 but it seems I need something more powerfull, however the new Tunze skimmers are too big in size for my sump. So I'm trying to find a way to improve my skimming either replacing the current one or adding another one.

Any thoughts or ideas of what would be best?

I understand that if I just add another 9015 I'll end up with a 9020 ( just more expensive and w/o the draining tube). Although I'd like to know if the new pump will ever be implemented to the 9015 to improve its performance.

Regards

Adriano

 

[rvitko]

It isn't possible, we tried needlewheels in the small skimmers and they fill the skimmer with so much air it eventually chokes on air and stops, it becomes just a big air bubble inside. How much skimmate do you get? Maybe something is wrong?

 

[bolza171]

Roger,

I'm getting about 100ml of dark yellow skimming a day although it seems It's taking enough nutrients from water once I'm start seeing some spots of HA in the rocks.

The nitrates and Phosphates are low enough to not been tracked by Non professional tests but still getting the Algaes.

What's the real benefit of 9020 over 9015? Just the volume?

I'm trying to identify if would be enough just to add another 9015 or change it all.

Can I install the 9440 outside sump? It too big to fit inside.

Regards


Adriano

 

[rvitko]

From my expereince the skimming alone is not the reason tanks have or don't have hair algae. It sounds like it is skimming OK. If anything I might suggest getting a 9020.14 foam extractor, it is a bit shorter and can skim a bit wetter. I would increase the KH, keep it at 12-14 for a while. Also, increase the flow. The 9020 would definitely skim more but from what I have seen hair algae thrives from CO2 excess and low redox. The main way a skimmer helps is as an aerator but high flow will also help the same way. The high KH seems to hurt it as well.

 

[bolza171]

Roger,

Thanks for the tips. I just added another 6000 Turbelle in the circulation aiming to improve the flow 2 days ago.

I have kept between 9 / 10 KH but I have difficults to raise it even more with the calcium reactor. I'll consider to add some bicarbonate to help it.

Meanwhile, if you get any news in middle size skimmers from tunze, pls let me know.

Regards

 

[Kinetic]

bolza, also try finding nutrient traps in your system. If there's a dead spot where stuff can sit and decay your skimmer won't ever get to it.

your 6000 should help out as well =)

also check any filters you may have, chaeto balls, maybe even your sand bed for any possible source of stagnant nutrient.

goodluck!