Protein skimmer

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cnewsom91

New member
Okay so I have a question about generic vs name brand protein skimmers (reef octopus, etc.) I currently have a generic protein skimmer for my 29 gal tank and it works pretty well, but i'm planning on upgrading to a 55 gallon tank as soon as i have all the proper parts. I have a friend who swears by reef octopus in terms of skimming and I know that they are pretty good, but I was wondering if a generic skimmer would work just as well in terms of efficiency?
Thanks
 
I guess it depends on the generic skimmer. I know that there is a cheap skimmer on ebay that works really well. I think it's a RO clone, actually. If you don't go nuts with the stocking, I'm sure your current skimmer will at least get you started. If you notice poor water quality, spend the cash to upgrade. You dont' have to spend $500 to get a good skimmer, just shop smart and listen to the advice of other owners before spending your pennies

On another note...you may want to reconsider the 55g unless you already have it. Something like a 75g would be better for aquascaping. Because it's so narrow, a 55g limits what you can do with your rock. A deeper tank (front to back) will really help you in that area. I'm not saying it can't be done, just that it's harder.
 
I run a SCA cone skimmer from ebay. Its the smaller one for 65 gallons that I think is a bubble magnus knock off, not for sure though. I would recommend them, great little skimmer. Im actually thinking about upgrading to the next size for up to 150g, I think it runs around $150 or so.
 
I already have a fifty five gallon tank but I have thought about a seventy five. There is one on eBay rated for 100-150 gallons for about fifty bucks that I thought about trying
 
That SCA skimmer is the one I was talking about. I've seen it in action and it's no slouch. I think would be well served with one.
 
I've never seen anything written about it, but for that price, I'd be extremely cautious. My gut says "no," but I haven't used it. You don't have to spend a fortune, but you usually need to spend something to get quality. The SWC skimmers are a steal at their price.
 
Been in the hobby for many years and have figured out over time that most often with reefing the more money it costs the better..not every case but with equip like skimmers, pumps etc..have found performance and longevity to be better the higher end you go. Probably because they put more science and craftsmanship into the products. If you are lucky though every once in a while you may find a cheap little miracle.
 
I have the SCA skimmer from ebay. It is a replica of the more expensive Bubble Magnus skimmer line. Now, I can't really comment on how it compares to the Bubble Magnus (retails for around $180) because I have never owned one. But, for the $70 bucks I spent on the SCA, I'm pretty satisfied.
 
I did see that skimmer, however I am looking for one that can handle over 100 gph, so when i do upgrade the skimmer should still be efficient. I really would like the reef octo DNWB-100 but that gets pretty expensive from most providers
 
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