Skimmer help please

[chefmur]

so I just got back from vacation and noticed no bubbles at all in skimmer column. Pump is working pushing water into it but not a bubble in sight. It is a needlewheel pump driven MRC skimmer about 4 years old and worked like a charm until now. I have not pulled it out yet as it is a tight fit and I have to dissasemble it in the sump before removing it so its a pain. I took it apart a few months ago and cleaned the whole thing pump and all so I know its not that. Any ideas?

 

[alabrew]

You might try taking some hot water and having the air intake hose suck it all in. That can clean salt deposits that may be clogging the venturi or air line.

 

[gflat65]

Yeah, I'd start with the air intake (hose ot where it necks down to the plastic nipple that the rubber intake tube connects).

If that doesn't get it, check to make sure that the shaft on the impellor hasn't snapped.

 

[atlantisaquari]

sometimes the air tube clogs up at the top ( where the air goes in ) or at least some where close to that ( depending on how it is built )

 

[chefmur]

Thanks guys you were right, a tiny snail was blocking air intake where the rubber tube fits on. Appreciate the help.