Please help with my BK/Alpha skimmer choice

[rob020880]

Hello,

I have a 140 gal. total sps system with a decent amount of fish. I am stuck and don't know which BK or Vertex alpha would be best for my needs. I have some size contraints in my sump so the depth at which any of these operate in are also of concern to me. Here are the skimmers I have been considering.

BK mini 180

BK mini 200

Alpha 170

Alpha 200

Which of these would you say will be good enough for my system and at what optimal depth does each need to operate in? I am looking to have a good consistent skimmate and not over do it making the skimmer erratic. All your advice is greatly appreciated. Do the minis perform better then the alphas?

 

[bayoupr]

What is the footprint of your sump and water level height?

 

[rob020880]

The water in the sump is currently at 11.5" but I could potenially lower it a bit, if needed, by modifying one of the baffles the height inside my cabinet from the bottom of my sump to the top of the cabinet is 27.5" so depending on the model I could raise the skimmer, or lower the water level.

 

[rob020880]

All of these models would fit foot print wise.

 

[rob020880]

Also are there any other brands that are of similar quality I should consider?

 

[cobra9]

Alpha 170 or mini 180.

I have a alpha200 running in a 200gal system and its too big.


As far as other brands maybe a ATB 840.

 

[rob020880]

Whats better the mini 180 or the alpha 170?

 

[bayoupr]

In my opinion since I have run both the 170 and 180, as of right now I would say the 180 because it is performing alot better than my 170 did. The ATB840 is an excellent skimmer also, might want to look into the Super Reef octupus skimmers as I have heard alot of good feed back on these. You will have to get your sump level to where you can run these skimmers anywhere from 8-9.5" water level. Anything this will be pushing the limit