Reef Octopus or AquaMaxx HOB?

[plecoco]

After tons of research, I've narrowed it down to either the Reef Octopus 100-HOB or the AquaMaxx HOB-1. Both of these would work for me as I don't have a sump and need an HOB, and they're both relatively cheap.

Anyone have experiences with either? Can anyone vouch for one over the other?

This is my first skimmer so I don't have much practice in using it. I need it to be easy to setup and get going, as well as something that doesn't require too much maintenance. I'm using it for a smaller tank and it'll probably have a moderate bioload. I really can't afford anything more expensive than these 2 skimmers. I've looked at other brands, but they don't have any reviews or are too expensive.

After going in circles, I've decided to stick with these two, but I can't make up my mind! What do you think? :reading:

Some references and reviews I've read:

Reef Octopus:

http://skimmergeek.com/reef-octopus-hob-protein-skimmer-review/

http://www.marinedepot.com/AquaMaxx...ein_Skimmers-AquaMaxx-UJ1151-FIPSHONW-vi.html

AquaMaxx:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PcudyFwGzwU

http://skimmergeek.com/best-hang-on-back-hob-protein-skimmer/

 

[mandarin_goby]

I had the Aquamaxx and it ran flawlessly. I loved it. I just upgraded to a tank that included a Reef Octopus in-sump skimmer, that's the only reason I'm not using the Aquamaxx right now. It was very easy to set up and so quiet compared to my old BakPak2 HOB skimmer - the pump was so loud.

 

[bdsage]

check out reef-oct. bh90 it can also be converted to insump use...

 

[gREEF stricken]

I just bought one used a few weeks ago and it produces a more putrid skimmate than my big skimmers. its great.

GS

I had the Aquamaxx and it ran flawlessly. I loved it. I just upgraded to a tank that included a Reef Octopus in-sump skimmer, that's the only reason I'm not using the Aquamaxx right now. It was very easy to set up and so quiet compared to my old BakPak2 HOB skimmer - the pump was so loud.

 

[jiminy_crime]

Can't speak to Aquamaxx but having Reef Octopus, I am very bias. I have had other skimmers and none have compared to RO for the price. If AM are awesome, then just go with the one you like the look of the best. RO are ultra quiet and efficient.


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[jiminy_crime]

CPR Bakpaks are BRUTAL!!! They will make you like any other skimmer that is not a CPR


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[damage31]

I've got an Aquamaxx HOB-1 on a biocube 29 and a Reef Octopus Classic 1000 HOB on a 75. While my bioload is really light in both tanks, they both seem to pull a similar light tea color. Maybe I skim too wet, but I empty the cups at half full once a week as it is now.

As far as what I like, I like the Aquamaxx and how it can return an overfilled skimmate cup back to either the tank, or to an external container. I did have a few issues early on where it overflowed for an unknown reason during break in. The Reef Octopus, while not having this feature, has not overflowed on me... yet. But at some point I do plan on drilling the cup and putting in an elbow just in case. Also, the Aquamaxx is just a bit smaller width wise.

Both seem to do a good job. The Aquamaxx is a bit louder than the (what I would consider) nearly silent Reef Octopus.

Either way, I'm sure you'll be fine.

 

[plecoco]

Thanks for the suggestions all. It seems like I can't say no the to AQUAMAXX!

Being that they're both in the same price range, the AquaMaxx seems to be easier to set up and requires less maintenance.

Thanks again all!

 

[Reeferman1019]

do HOB Skimmers such as the AM or RO have tendencies to flood? And what are some precautions to stop them from running over if any?

 

[newbie2014]

As far as what I like, I like the Aquamaxx and how it can return an overfilled skimmate cup back to either the tank, or to an external container. I did have a few issues early on where it overflowed for an unknown reason during break in. The Reef Octopus, while not having this feature, has not overflowed on me... yet. But at some point I do plan on drilling the cup and putting in an elbow just in case. Also, the Aquamaxx is just a bit smaller width wise.

Both seem to do a good job. The Aquamaxx is a bit louder than the (what I would consider) nearly silent Reef Octopus.

Either way, I'm sure you'll be fine.

I've used AM HOB-1 for about 6 months, and I concur with this assessment.

However, 99% of the noise on mine is the hissing of the airline tube. I tried the so-call "silencer" thing, but it amplified the sound instead of reducing it. So, I just use a $1 airline valve to regulate air intake and muffle the sound.

 

[emily97]

Aquamaxx is best,you might want to check out eshopps hob they use sicce pumps now.

 

[Mishri]

I'm a big fan of my reef octopus... had it for over a year and still gets thick sludge out. Mine looks the same as what you are looking at, but mine is a lot bigger is the only difference. So I expect you'll be happy with it too.

-I'm not a fan of my remora pro-s.. skimmate is just watery green stuff and some bits of things.

aquamaxx I have no experience with.

 

[plecoco]

For those who asked, I haven't heard about the AM or RO flooding based on the reviews I've read, so it looks all clear.

The AM and RO HOBs seem to be really easy to setup and beginner-friendly.

Seems like the majority still suggests going for the AquaMaxx. I think I'll try the AquaMaxx first, then the Reef Octopus for my next tank.

 

[newbie2014]

I would also get the bubble trap for AM. It helps stop tiny bubbles from going into your DT during break-in period.

 

[abhishek@1985]

You might wanna take a look at the Deltec MCE300,400 or 600 . Nothing practically touches a Deltec MCE 600 in terms of performance but again you pay quite high ..

 

[Fin Mike]

The break in period for the AM is long and you need to watch it. While in the break in period, unhook the yellow tube from the silencer and shove it up into the catch cup overflow. That way all the water that accumulates in the catch cup can be redirected back into the filter.

 

[plecoco]

Thanks for all the suggestions and advice!

What's a bubble trap and how do I get one? Is it sold separately made by AquaMaxx or a third party? Does the AM really need one?

 

[Molter]

The break in period for the AM is long and you need to watch it. While in the break in period, unhook the yellow tube from the silencer and shove it up into the catch cup overflow. That way all the water that accumulates in the catch cup can be redirected back into the filter.

Good to know. It sounds like you've had one of these before.
Is there instructions in the manual on how to address this, or is it just something you figured out?

 

[Cisco1339]

hi i just purchased a aquamaxx hob-1 got home installed it and a hour later found the skimmer on the floor the handle that hold on to the tank snapped off ... eny ways i was lucky to be able to return it since it only been 2 hours that i both it .... got home installed it again made a stand for it im not taking eny chnaces ... now i know skimmers have to be broken in but this is stupid let me explain ... it started with the over flowing with i controled by rubbing a little olive oil on the tip where the bubbles come out of but thats only good for a few hours then theres the micro bubble that fill my tank up and freaks out my fish and anename so i got some cotton like fiber stuff guy at the pet shop said it would help so i stuffed some in the second chamber where the return is left side worked great!! for 24h .... then same thing plus the rubber ring that hold the receiving cup doesint keep the bubbles in for **** always leaking and i need to shut it off need help pls !!