Rimless Tank Problem!!

[purpletang123]

I'm having some problems with the surface water of the tank. I see a dust fine thing on that stay on the surface of the tank.Any ideas how to fix this?

 

[Webmanny]

Do you mean a kind of grease looking film? If so, you need an overflow or skimmer. On my 36 gallon tank, since I don't have a sump or drilled tank, I used this from ebay on the intake of the canister filter.

I think it would work also if you have a HOB filter.

Good luck.

 

[purpletang123]

My tank only have a fine white dust on the surface.I do have a center overflow with a good skimmer down in the sump.

 

[CuzzA]

There's one of two ways to fix it. Adjust your power head(s) or return(s) to agitate the surface water more or turn off your power head(s) for a half hour or so, therefore, it can be skimmed off by your overflow, assuming you have an overflow setup. Obviously the latter is a temporary solution which would have to be performed often if it bothers you.

Nevertheless, the debris and oil slick on the surface of a tank is natural, albeit unsightly and is not causing any harm to your inhabitants. I would caution, especially with an open top tank, to be conscientious of accidentally introducing pollution in to your system. I.e. aerosols, cleaners, pesticides, etc. Especially, if you have other people who live with you. Make sure to tell them to be careful.

 

[rogergolf66]

Sounds to me not enough surface flow to break it up. Probably not a large pump moving water to the sump. This can cause low oxygen problems. Point a power head or 2 up to the surface of the water. Report back in 24 hrs.

How much water movement do u have from return pump and powerheads separate please. What size display?

 

[zachfishman]

Have a picture? Often times returns and powerheads can be pointed in such a way that they block some of the aquarium surface from being skimmed, leaving the film/dustyness you described.