Skimmer help

[ClownMan727]

I picked up a used classic reef octopus int150 today. It is not making micro bubbles like it should. The pump is working and the needle wheel looks good. Getting air too. Any ideas?

 

[ClownMan727]

Running it in fresh water to clean it and I guess freshwater won't produce the same bubbles as saltwater...

 

[Redsox Nation]

What water lvl are you running it in?

 

[Redsox Nation]

Recommended Sump Water Depth: 6"-8"

 

[ClownMan727]

7.5 thanks.

 

[CrazyEyes]

Freshwater doesn't have the surface tension that saltwater does therefore the bubbles are going to be big and inconsistant. Have you ran it in the actual system yet? Mine had larger bubbles at first before I put a check valve on the airline and restricted the air just a tad.

 

[ClownMan727]

No, just tried it in freshwater. Won't have the tank up for a while.. Thanks.

 

[aquaticartist]

Try adding some vinegar to your freshwater bath...watch the bubbles come to life!!!

 

[aznsnakeboy89]

There is a silencer, open it all the way, then you will get thinner bubbles.

 

[rogergolf66]

As mentioned protein skimmers don't work in freshwater. It probably works fine once u get it into a saltwater system.

 

[janes_mw]

As mentioned protein skimmers don't work in freshwater. It probably works fine once u get it into a saltwater system.

+1 - won't even work in Fresh water. Like Roger and CrazyEyes say, it will probably be fine in Saltwater.