Erratic Skimmer - Dead Fish?

[DustinB]

For the past week or so my Precision Marine RL-150 has been going crazy overflowing from time to time. I've even had it set about 3-4" below the top of the main body and it still overflows. I only have 6 small fish and nothing has changed for months. Probably happens twice a day at different times.

I just noticed last night that I haven't seen my lawnmower blenny in about 2 weeks and I can't find it anywhere. Has anyone experienced anything like this due to a hidden dead fish? Any other ideas?

 

[d3rryc]

I've got an RL-150 as well, and I've seen two things that cause what you're describing with fair consistency. One is epoxy - every time I add a new frag using Aquamend, the skimmer freaks out for a little while. The other is maintenance - the skimmer pump needs a good cleaning. Its erratic performance is what's making the cup overflow. When was the last time you gave the pump a good vinegar bath?

 

[DustinB]

Thanks for the reply! Actually I haven't cleaned the pump at all. It's been running about 3 months straight now. I had considered that, but didn't really think it could cause such a strong reaction. I'll give it a shot tonight.