Protein skimmer maintanance

[chewieee]

I have a aqua c EV 120 thats been running on my tank for 8 months now. I clean the collection cup and the neck once a week. The neck i just clean off inside with a wet paper towel there is some coralline algae growing on the inside of the neck in some spots. My question is should i take the whole skimmer out and clean it very well inside and outside with vinegar and such as a regular once or twice a year thing? Or is it ok to just cleant he cup and neck?

 

[Peter Eichler]

I'd suggest taking it down and running vinegar and water through it in a container overnight every few months. At least that's what I do and in addition to cleaning the skimmer body it'll help keep the pump from building up deposits.

 

[sabbath]

One note: I have to clean the pump and nozzle to the skimmer every couple months or it only skims dry.

 

[mcrist]

I prefer to use muriatic acid since it will only take a few minutes to get it clean. I clean my skimmer at least twice a year.

 

[Aquarist007]

The air venturi can become plugged on a skimmer with salt creep and precipitates. I find about once a month I have to take a hammer and small nail and re-open the air venturi.
The housing and the turbo also get loaded up with copopods and needs rinsing out

 

[down and outman]

A small drill bit works good to clear the venturi. I take apart the pump periodically and give it a good cleaning. Keeps it humming.

 

[o.c.d.]

I know this sucks but I started to clean my skimmer cup every second day and the improvement is noticeable I would recommend to give it a try to anyone.
I also disassemble my skimmer clean scrub every part anytime performance is lacking or 3months or so.

 

[Aquarist007]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12485164#post12485164 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by o.c.d.
I know this sucks but I started to clean my skimmer cup every second day and the improvement is noticeable I would recommend to give it a try to anyone.
I also disassemble my skimmer clean scrub every part anytime performance is lacking or 3months or so.

sucks? I thought everyone cleaned the skimmer cup every second day:smokin:

along with filter socks if you are even using them at all

 

[vanmo92]

With my skimmer every few months I take it out, and up to the bathtub with a brush and clean it out real well. But other than that I only clean the cup and neck like you do.