Questions about first protein skimmer

[Marco333]

Hi All,

I am setting up a 40 Breeder reef tank. It has been cycling with live rock for about two weeks. I purchased a Eshopps Hang On Protein Skimmer PSK-75H for this tank. This is my first time using a skimmer and have some questions below.

1. How high should I let the bubbles rise? Right now I tuned it so that they bubble up to the base of the neck. Please see the image below which shows my water level in the skimmer.

2. The skimmer cup has what I believe to be a drain tube. It came plugged up with a small white piece of plastic. What should I do with this? Should I remove this plastic and point the tube back into my tank in case it overflows. I'm worried I am going to leave for work and come back to find my skimmer overflowing onto my floor.

3. Any other trips/tricks for this skimmer. I'm feeling worried I am not using it correctly.

Images of my skimmer in action (just set up): http://imgur.com/a/ZttwU

Thank you for any suggestions!

 

[mcgyvr]

I have the same tank/same skimmer..
You've got it..
Remove plug and stick in tank in case of overflows..
Or leave plug if you want to risk a flooded floor..

I keep the bubble level just slightly lower.. like half way up the angled transition section..

Note: You need to watch it when adding chemicals/etc.. as it can go crazy and overflow.. It can spill some water outside even with the drain tube if its bad enough..

Also.. any issues (surging,etc..) are air trapped in the inlet line and sometimes plugging the air inlet tube can clear that or stopping/starting it again and it also requires a good vinegar soak cleaning when it starts to act goofy (like any other skimmer)..

Oh and a water bottle cap will fit right over the outlet tube vertical air vent and just punch a few holes in it.. This can quiet it down just a bit more..

But other than that it can pull some dark (wetter) skimmate fairly well.. Its a very decent skimmer..

 

[Marco333]

Thanks for the reply! Very helpful