ER 180 with mag pump problem

[TXZappa]

Hi,
I'm using a euro reef 180 with a mag pump, but unfortunately I do not know the model of the Mag. (maybe 5 or 7) I bought this system used and it has worked fairly well in my 65 (90-100 gallons with sump) Lately the performance has dropped dramatically. I am getting minimal bubble accumulation and it has forced me to raise the overflow tube much higher to still get the cup to fill. Even after I feed, the skimmer doesn't respond at all. I have a moderate bioload.

Does anyone have any tips on ways to tweak ER skimmers? How long should this mag pump last? I bought it used so it is quite a few years old now, do I just need a newer more efficient pump?

Any help is appreciated!

 

[TXZappa]

I'm sorry it's a sedra 500gph

 

[YogiBoo]

it need to upgrade the pump or impeller for better skimming

 

[moondoggy4]

I would clean the pump with vinegar for at least a day and I would run a drill by hand through the air tube inlet on the venturi.. On a monthly bases I would boil a cup of RO water and stick the end of the air hose in it and suck through the pump while it is running.

 

[taylor t]

I have the same issue with over time the performance drops off.

I take a drill bit the exact size, and BY HAND, clean out the plastic air intake in front of the motor. The performance goes way down when the air intake doesn't intake as much as it needs. It seems to clog with pretty hard build up, water won't desolve mine. Hopefully fixing yours is as easy as that.