Testing a Skimmer

[dr_rick]

So, I built a skimmer recently with the intention of using it on my tank--once it finally gets running--and I've been curious about how to test it. Basically, I've tried making up saltwater with water that I've changed out of my FW tank, and I get a little bit of foam, albeit, not much, and the foam that I do get is basically white, not the gross stuff that I normally see skimmers pulling out. I don't know if that should have worked or not. The other thing I've read is to try and put a drop of water conditioner (dechlorinator) in and see how it does. It goes crazy when I do that, but again, I don't know how that translates to the real world of skimming on a tank. So, what other ideas do you guys have? The only other idea I've been able to find has been to put skimmate from another skimmer into some new saltwater, mix it up, and let the skimmer run. While I might do that (seeing if I can borrow some nog from one of you), I wonder if there's way to test with what I have around the house. Basically, I am trying to figure out if I need to build something different, or if this one will work ok. Thanks for your help guys!

 

[scbadiver]

I think that it will be tough to really do an accurate test. I'd say if it foams as you say, it probably will work. No doubt you might make some mods once it's running but I wouldn't worry. However, if want a cup of skimate, it's all yours!!

Robbie

 

[DrBDC]

If it's making foam, it's working. Then it's just a matter of fine tuning it for optimal performance.

 

[chadfarmer]

put it on your tank

if it does better than your old skimmer than you are a success

 

[dr_rick]

Ok, thanks for setting my mind at ease a little bit guys. I really do hope it will work ok. My tank isn't set up yet, so I can't just slapon there, otherwise I would. I'm just trying to work on some of the DIY projects while I can. Who knows, if I get really bored, I may see if I can steal some skimmate

 

[chadfarmer]

any pics of it

 

[Nanook]

The true test is the "taste test"!!!

 

[dr_rick]

Thanks Nook! I have to say, I'm not experienced in what good skimmate should taste like. Maybe you can lend your expertise to me I haven't taken any pics, but I might be able to...but I do think it looks kind of ghetto, so I'm a little hesitant to open myself up to incessant mockery

 

[Nanook]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7343628#post7343628 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by dr_rick
I'm a little hesitant to open myself up to incessant mockery

Awe c'mon...that is half the fun!!!

I have tasted skimmate a few times while cleaning the skimmer...not really what I would call fine dining though

 

[dr_rick]

The first two are just overall shots of the skimmer in action, the last is what the collection cup looks like. It's just got some brown looking water in it right now because I just put in a little bit of dechlorinator to get it going.

 

[Lost His Marbles Name]

Take a poopo in it and see if it takes it out. Than you will know if it works. If you drink draft beer that may make your stool a little softer and the skimmer might be able to work with that better.