No Skimmate in Sump with 9020

[michad]

I'm a big fan of my 9020, but I'm just not getting any skimmate.

Hopefully someone can help me adjust my setup and improve the situation.

The tank is 240 gallons with a 75 gallon sump, left drain is where I have the 9020 and center section is the return pump, right section is the refugium with a small section taking the right drain.

I have produced maybe 1/2 pint of skim in the last 3 weeks.

While the bioload is light, I had the same problem with my 9010 when it was in the sump. Moving the 9010 to the main tank produced good milky yuck colored skimmate (and of course I could get it wet and make alot more with trying).

My return pump is a mag 12 and in the main tank we have two 6100's.

I need skim! Help.

Roger, I left a message earlier today this is the post.

 

[rvitko]

Sorry, I have not checked phone messages yet today. I usually don't get to that until the afternoon. Is water exiting the pipe? Is water exiting the hole in the back of the skimmer? How deep is the skimmer submerged? Is the foam sponge level with or below the level of the top of the pipe?

 

[michad]

Water is exiting the pipe(s) and well.
I have to double check on the back, but I do recall there being a stream from the backs of the 9020 (unless I'm remembering the 9010).
The skimmer is about level with the blue water mark on the case.
Now the foam sponges are actually level with the water (with water flowing over the pipes).

Is this enough info?

 

[rvitko]

I will call you later today, sorry I have to get a lot of orders out today and we are trying to complete some renovations in the warehouse.

The sponge should be below the top of the pipe, if they are higher water backs up and chokes the air flow. The water level could be much lower, the mark does not apply when used in sump and the US pumps are about 5-10% stronger than European pumps so it is a good idea to be a minimum 1/2" below the line but any waterlevel between 4-10" is acceptable. I think water is backing up into the venturi and restricting the air flow.

 

[michad]

I'll pull up the skimmer to 1" below the line and give it a go. You can hold the return call, I'll work with this info tonite and let's see if we get any different results.

I'm well coated now so can I assume that we might see more foam immediately if I get in the "zone"?

 

[michad]

Roger, the changes were made and we're making foam, much less than before and no where near a "column". I'll try and touchbase with you this afternoon.

 

[michad]

Roger, the changes are made and while we're not quite a week since, I have seen foam (bigger bubbles up to the top of one cup, the other foams and the bottom but doesnt climb up.

I love the idea of the 9020 but I think the experiement is over. I've received the bulk of my replumbing supplies and am planning a new sump.

Before I post this for sale, is there an equivelent to an ATI BM 250 in the Tunze line? I think my height issues wont be a problem for the BM250 and the new sump will eliminate the access issues and the flow problems (which I believe are the reasons my 9020 isnt working as well as it could).

Any suggestions for the next level up Tunze Skimmer? Or any last changes I can try with the 9020?

 

[rvitko]

I understand your frustration but seeing as we are both in Texas, is there any chance you could ship it to me so I can go over it. I am pretty sure I can get this working to your liking. I leave for two weeks vacation/ business trip next week. If you can send it when I return I will get this solved for you.