Skimmer Info

[remix8315544]

Getting ready to purchase an in sump skimmer for a 75 gal with a 20 gal sump. I've been out of the hobby for quite a while. The last skimmer I owned was about 4 feet tall with air stones. Money is somewhat an object but not the only consideration. Looking to spend in the $150 - $250 range. What are the different types and advantages/disadvantages of each. Thanks for the help.

 

[hobbzz]

How many fish do you plan on having? Needle wheels are the most popular right now. High air draw with little wattage. Octopus and bubble magus are some good ones just to name a few. Lots of other good ones out there also. I'd look into a used sro1000 if you plan on a light to medium bioload. Or new, but new they're out of your range by about $40+tax.

 

[gmneil]

octopus are good thats what i use, im sure you can find one suitable for you in your budget, i always go larger than i need incase i upgrade or add to my bio load

 

[gmneil]

take a trip to arc on genesee they usually have a bunch in stock

 

[cardiffgiant]

I like octopus skimmers, but don't have experience with other brands. I've been looking for an Octopus SRO 3000 for my system. I haven't seen one that I'm looking for pop up on the sale forum recently, but I have seen a couple that would work for a system your size (and well within your price range).

 

[Gary Majchrzak]

Skimming Basics 101

 

[emm0909]

I use an ASM G1X on my 75 gallon with 20 gallon tall sump. They are a good bang for your buck skimmer and I feel like I always see them for sale on the message boards. The pump is $80 so think about that before you buy one without a pump. I'll bet you could pick one up cheap, ready to go on the used equipment boards and it'll hold you over until you can get something else.

I know nothing about the octopus skimmers. Hear great things though.

 

[cardiffgiant]

Also be aware of the height of the sump and the height of the output for the skimmer. I used to have an Octopus NW150 that would have been perfect for your sized system, but the splashing and footprint would have been a bit much for a 20G. Something with a gate valve might be more ideal.

 

[remix8315544]

Thanks for all the input