Protein skimmer pump died - help

[PCKRAJ]

Cleaned the tank, refilled the sump, plugged in and protein skimmer pump won't work; it's a Sedra Powerhead KSP5000. Questions:

1. How long is it safe to run my 150 gallon without a protein skimmer? What should I do until I get a new pump or protein skimmer?
2. Should I just get a new pump? I bought it used and I've used it a few years.
3. Or buy a new protein skimmer and what do you recommend?
4. Anyone in the area have an extra protein skimmer I can borrow till I get one?

150 gallon tank and 75 gallon basement sump.

UGH!!!

 

[Gary Majchrzak]

hi!

hi!

the FIRST thing I would do is see if you can get your Sedra back up and running.

Submerge it, plug it in and give it a few light taps with a hammer. For extra measure, give it a 15 minute soak in vinegar and repeat this process.

Your aquarium should be fine while you are working to get the skimmer back up and running so don't panic- you should have weeks to get the skimmer back up and running if you need them.

 

[PCKRAJ]

Thanks for responding so quickly Gary. On the way down to tap on the pump I said a little prayer...and it was answered. No tapping necessary - I guess I tapped the right source. Yippee!!!

I think I'm going to order a new pump as this one has acted weird before - it'll be worth the peace of mind.

Thanks again

 

[Gary Majchrzak]

a vinegar soak will remove deposits. Sedras are reliable.

 

[TruespeedEM1]

Does it fill up, but fail to foam, or just not work entirely?

I have a ASM skimmer that I have to blow into the air line hose to get it to start skimming.

 

[pascal32]

If you have a moment, take the impeller out and look for wear on the shaft. While you are there clean up the magnet ans the inside. I read this can cause startup issues. I just started looking at shaft replacements for my SWC before deciding to use it as an excuse to buy a new skimmer.