Skimmer recommendation

[Scffvariable]

Jeremy, looking for your input on a skimmer for my new setup.

DSA Pro 225 with a custom sump, aprox 90g. Will be mostly SPS with a pretty heavy fish load.

I really like the DC pumps and would prefer a skimmer with a DC pump and lower wattage draw. I currently have a Reef Octopus NWB110 (aquatrance pump) on a frag setup and a Warner Marine SK181 on my 40b display.

I have been looking at the diablo DCS200 or 250, RLLS R-8u, new Skimz DC models. Also would be open to Bubble king, but do not know much about them. Price is a factor, but if the higher price can be justiefied I am fine with it.

Also curious on the AquaC skimmers, would you be able to drive them with the DC pumps? Seems like they have some great features and seems to be less finicky then typical venturi skimmers. I also like the calcium reactor effluent port.


Thanks

 

[Jeremy B.]

You are really right on the borderline between an 8" body and 10" body skimmer. No matter what brand you go with (assuming you're looking at a workhorse, which the models you listed are indeed that) you will end up having a little better performing skimmer at first with an 8" body due to lower bioload, and a little better performing skimmer a couple of years down the road with a 10" body skimmer when the bioload increases.

If you never plan on having anything stocked in the sump (not a frag tank area, etc.), then I think I might lean just a little more towards an 8" body versus the 10" body skimmer.

Getting into models I think that DCS-200 with the pump being external to the body (giving you more reaction time and space) would be your best performer against the cost of the skimmer itself. You're also going to be dealing with support here in the US through Coralvue (Octopus distributor). The RLSS would be my close second choice, but would suggest the R8-I, instead of the U, for the same reason mentioned above about the DCS-200.