Skimmer vs. Algae Scrubber

[chrisrune314]

Hey guys, I am currently in the planning/building stages of my first SW tank, 55 gallons. I am currently building a bigger stand to hold a sump tank, as the one that came with it was way too small to hold any tank (I got it from craigslist, tank, stand, and misc supplies). I was reading around, and discovered algae scrubbers. Many people go skimmerless with these, and yet many use skimmers with a scrubber. I just can't decide which I should do. If getting a skimmer, which ones do you guys recommend? I was thinking of going scrubber only but would love some advice from experienced SW tank owners. Thanks guys.

-Note: I do not have a sump yet. I was thinking a 29g from petsmart, since I have one nearby. There aren't any LFS near me, one that is a short drive away is OK. I don't have plumbing planned out yet except I would like to do a BeanAnimal overflow. My tank would probably be FOWLR, but I may get more into it once I move out and can handle more.

 

[divewsharks]

a sump is a very good thing, add water volume, place to hide all your crap (so that almost nothing is seen in the display tank).
Skimmers are also very good things. On a 55G you have many options, what is your budget, will this be a reef tank (not that that really matters...).
You can run both, but i would start with a skimmer, you can add chaeto to your sump.

 

[chrisrune314]

Yea, I know what a sump is. I've been planning to get/make one all along. I just can't decide whether to use a skimmer, scrubber, or both. I'd prefer to not get a skimmer due to cost, but if I should, then I'd like to get one that will get me going until I get a scrubber going. Any more opinions on this? If you suggest using both, then which skimmer should I get? Thanks

 

[divewsharks]

I would start with the skimmer, what is your budget for one?

 

[chrisrune314]

Well, seeing as I'm 15 and without a job... I think you get it. But still, I'm planning ahead. I'm building a stand, and am going to be making small investments into smaller things. I'm searching for a job and hope to soon be making enough to get to college, and once I move out I should have everything to start up this tank... It may be a while unfortunately =(

 

[luckydud13]

Im in the same boat as you. I am 16, and setting up a 55 gallon. The only difference is I have about 2 years experience. What I can suggest, do not skimp on anything. My first saltwater tank was a disaster because I didnt have any money, and instead of waiting and saving, I set it up poorly, with little money.

Do not make the same mistake I did. Ive been saving up for the 55 for about 6 months now, and only have the Tank, Stand, Sump, and Half of the lights.

What I recommend is buying a nice skimmer, because you will be so happy you did. Alot of people sell really nice ones on here for just over $100. This is the route I am going, because of my lack of money, used is a good option.

I hope what I have written helps you. PM me if you have anyother questions.

-lucky

P.S.- I have a job, and it helps.....

 

[chrisrune314]

Yea, I'm not going to be going cheap. If i need to I'll save up until I move out, even if it takes a couple years. My current FW tank is doing good, and I don't want to have another tank going bad. I'll check out the sales forum around here, thanks for the tip. I probably won't get a top of the line skimmer or anything, just something that can get it going for sometime until I can add a scrubber to it. Thanks guys.