Tunze 230/3 skimmer issues

[mike olson]

I purchased a 230/3 skimmer for my 72 gal tank...it was noisy at first, but quieted down after an hour. I started the unit with the venturi closed...then opened it up three full revolutions, then left it...I see bubbles forming in the bottom, but nothing makes it to the cup. After three days I took it apart to see if there was anythingnot functioning properly...Im no expert but I couldnt find a problem in respect to the mechanics of the skimmer. The only thing that baffles me is that the pump is rated for approx 300 gal/hr and the motion of the swirlin water and bubbles does not seem that much. Is there a speed control for the pump that I missed or am I just being impatient with this type of skimmer by not giving it time to set up? My skimmer hangs in my sump level and is within the parameters for depth ( as per instructions) Im hoping you can enlighten me on the subject Roger! Or if anyone has the same skimmer, PLEEAASSE Help

 

[rvitko]

3 days is not enough time for it to break in. Just set it up as specified. Double check the pump per the manual especially check that the bush bearing is firmly installed (suspicious because of the noise- this piece can come loose in shipping). I would set the water level to the maximum fill line. Open the venturi the three turns and give it at least a week. In general they take 2 weeks to really start working but after one week you should start to collect a watery foam.

 

[mike olson]

Thanks so much for the quick response. Ill check it out and be PATIENT! Its the first time I have seen this skimmer in action...thanks again