Skimmer

[cziemann]

so im trying to figure out what skimmer would be best for my setup. i have a 180 gallon tank and all glass mega sump model four.

 

[HowleyReefBoy]

You might want to do a search under equipment, filtration, ect... There are many threads that address your question, instead of waiting around here for a suggestion!;-) What ever you decide I would recommend a skimmer that is overpowered for your requirements.

Good luck

 

[sbleile]

Here is the skimmer thread..... http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1589426&page=63

 

[TampaReefer79]

Try a SWC-250A or 300A.

 

[TampaReefer79]

I just noticed what you're using for a sump...the skimmer might not fit, I'm not sure.

 

[IFbettas]

I can tell you from experience that no skimmer big enough for your tank will fit in that sump. I had to add an extra skimmer sump to fit my Octopus Extreme 250 in because it wouldn't fit in that sump.

 

[cziemann]

so is what your saying is i have to use the rest of my space underneath my tank for a skimmer? lol could you do two smaller ones (so they fit in my sump) with equal power to one big one? any way of making one?

 

[IFbettas]

The AGA sump is really designed for a fish only/ freshwater tank and to be used as a wet/dry filter. The amount of room available for a skimmer, calcium reactor, phosphate reactor, auto top off, and heaters is really minimal when you are trying to effectively run your tank.

Honestly, I would just get rid of that sump and get a 75 gallon tank which you can add baffles to. That way you can get a big enough skimmer (I'm thinking octo extreme 250 or 300). IME, two smaller skimmers will not be as effective as one truly able to handle your tank.

 

[cziemann]

i will look into that. im trying to keep stuff as compact as possible being that the tank is in my living room. i have enough to fit everything i need underneath minus ro/di. any disadvantages to having an out of sump skimmer?

 

[IFbettas]

External skimmers can be even better than in sump skimmers (like the new super reef octopus xp-5000, or reeflo orcas), but they will require more space to operate. Hang on the back skimmers are usually not very good for tanks bigger than ~55 gallons, IME.

 

[cziemann]

thanks for the help

 

[hondo3]

Octopus just started selling the Super Reef Octopus Cone XP3000. It would be perfect for a 180 if it will fit in your sump.