Skimmer faceoff! Deltec AP 600 vs BK mini 160

[george1098]

Hi all
With the recent death of my ASM G-4 X's needle wheel, I am forced with a dilemma. I Could buy myself a new Sedra 9000 needle wheel pump to replace my old one and get my giant ASM skimmer going again (obvousely the most economical option), or I could pick up a new high end skimmer with a smaller footprint and less energy suckage. The smaller footprint would be nice as I'm not working with a ton of space, but the cost is obvousely an issue. The two skimmers I have in mind but can'd decide between are the Deltec AP 600 and the Bubble King mini 160. The bubble king looks slightly awsomer, but it is more costly. Do you think it is worth the extra green for the BK? or will the Deltec skim just as well? or should I forget the new skimmer idea and fix my clunky old ASM? opinions appreciated.

 

[george1098]

anything?

 

[benrokh]

IMO you can't really compare the AP600 to a BK mini 160. A better comparison would be an APF600 vs the mini. it really comes down to whether you prefer a recirculating or an in sump model. another factor is the pump on the smaller deltecs (aquabee) which has a few issues.

I would also consider an ATB skimmer if I were you, but if it comes down to choosing between an AP600 and a mini BK 160 the BK is probably a better option in terms of both performance and reliability.

 

[george1098]

thanks, yea those red dragon pumps really look like they would last a lifetime which is a major selling point for me as my skimmer pump just bit the bullet and i don't want to deal with that crap again. I was just going to jump in and say that i was doing a little more looking in to different deltec models and the APF 600 has been added to my list. I will look in to ATB skimmers, thanks!

 

[gcarroll]

You could contact Warner Marine to order one of their Super Sedra 9000HO replacement pumps for the G4x. It is a needlewheel that does approx 1000 - 1100 lpm of air. That is if you are looking for a little more time to upgrade to a high end skimmer. If so ATB would be a great choice.