recirc skimmer install

[REEFROOKEE]

hey guys just got a new reef octo 6inch body 180 recirculating skimmer for a super good deal, i couldn't pass it up! I know its a little big for my 75g. but i plan on up grading tank size in the future anyway,

so my question is how would you prefer to plumb the skimmer in?

T- off the 900gph return pump?

run a separate pump for the skimmer, and if so what size and what pump?

last the one i would prefer to do, but dont think will function well for me, is off 1 of 2 of my over flow returns. the problem with this is i know if i restrict the over flow tube at all.its starts backing up quick...
any one know what size intake that skimmer has? (its still in shipping) and if the skimmer will cause any kind of restriction on the over flow line.
lemme know what ya think!

thanks!

 

[Jake007]

I just hooked up my first recirc skimmer this last weekend. I have two megaflow overflows on my 120g so I went with teeing off one of my overflows to the skimmer. Seems to work great so far. It is nice since it eliminates a pump (electricity and heat). However, for your case it sounds like any restriction causes it to start backing up you may need to either use a separate pump, or lower the size of the return pump, or go to the herbie/bean type return setup. By using both of your drilled holes for drains and piping your returns over the top you will have peace of mind that it shouldn't overflow the tank.

 

[REEFROOKEE]

yea i really like the not having to use another pump part...

that is the way mine is set up now 2 drains and 1 return?

 

[REEFROOKEE]

bump!

 

[REEFROOKEE]

no ones got any crazy ideas about routing recirc skimmers?

 

[malcomm]

Run mine off a separate bulkhead in the overflow.
Bean style overflow.

 

[REEFROOKEE]

ooo! i like that! is the skimmer bulk head above below or beside the main one

 

[fishoutawater]

Try to feed it in such a way that you can easily adjust the flow into it, and that you aren't adding air/water. That I think is why the multiple drain overflows work better for this, they have no air in their primary drain, giving you more consistent flow into your skimmer. Hope this helps.

 

[REEFROOKEE]

Try to feed it in such a way that you can easily adjust the flow into it, and that you aren't adding air/water. That I think is why the multiple drain overflows work better for this, they have no air in their primary drain, giving you more consistent flow into your skimmer. Hope this helps.

so t-ing off the return pump is not the best way to go? i know my over flow drain sucks air... i can hear it...