Skimmer Question, advise?

[stupac21]

I haven't posted in a long time and have sadly negleted my fishy friends lately.

I have a 20 gallon long tank and I want to purchase a protein skimmer. I don't know much about them.

I am on a tight budget.

I tried a skilter combo and it was almost worthless.

I am looking at a few brands and was hoping some of you who have experience with them could give me some advise.

This is what I'm looking at and the prices:

RedSea Prizm Skimmer - Prizm Deluxe (89.99)
Seaclone 100 (79.99)
Coralife Super skimmer Needle Wheel Protein Skimmer - 65 gallon (87.99)
Typhoon Hang-On Skimmer (67.99)
Bak-Pak Protein Skimmer (139.99)

I would like any thoughts you would have,

Thanks!!
Stuart

 

[Ishmael's Dad]

I'm sure you will find a variety of opinions on skimmers from people on this group. However, I'm sure there will be a near universal consensus that they are beneficial.

Personally, my experience with the seaclone is that it is worthless. I have heard good things about the Bak-Pak however (but haven't used one myself).

For my money (and experience), one of the best HOB skimmer is the Aqua-C remora model available from Marine Depot:
http://www.marinedepot.com/aquarium_protein_skimmers_aquac_remora_pro.asp?CartId=

They also sell a nano sized skimmer, good for up to 25 gallons, but if you have plans to upgrade the size of your tank in the future, go with the aqua-C.

 

[Chrsnwk]

I've used the Seaclone, and it's better than nothing, but that's about all i could say about it. It's very fussy to get tuned correctly, and even then is still "just ok"

I used a bak-pak for years on my 29 gallon reef back in the day. Easy to adjust, no complaints other than needing to replace the air tubing and clean the pump occasionally. (that will apply to all of them though)

 

[PCIALF]

I loved my Bak-Pak

 

[bjromaine]

IMHO avoid anything from Sea Clone. They are a waste of money and frustrating.
I have a Bak Pak now on a 55gal and am very happy with it

 

[bosborn1]

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1048116

 

[Jayelle]

I have a BakPak on my 75 and it seems to do the job. It keeps my nitrates at 0 so what more can ya ask?