What makes a skimmer "powerful"?

[NedFlounders]

I've read so many posts that say "get a strong skimmer" or get a powerful "skimmer"...well what makes one better than another?

I have a Reef Octopus 110. It was expensive, has a good reputation, but is it "strong"?

 

[MondoBongo]

primarily when you're talking skimmers, you're talking pumps.

the size/type/configuration of the pump is, in my opinion, the most important feature. the over all designs for the body as far as i've seen are broadly similar. i'm sure there are nuances to their shape, or specifics about their layout, but mostly the pump is what you're concerned about.

 

[toothybugs]

You have a good skimmer, but how big is your tank? A "strong" skimmer 1) produces a lot of foam, and likewise 2) draws a substantial amount of water, but it's also relative to your tank size. Your skimmer on a 40B system would probably be a strong skimmer. Your skimmer on a 120 would not. Get it?

All IMHO, of course.

 

[NedFlounders]

My tank is a 110 gallon corner acrylic. So you think I could possibly need a larger one?

 

[MondoBongo]

My tank is a 110 gallon corner acrylic. So you think I could possibly need a larger one?

possibly, but this will also depend on your stocking plan and feeding regimen.

if you already have it, i wouldn't worry too much about it. you can always upsize down the road if you need to. unless it's still in the box, and the fish store is willing to do an exchange, i would probably just roll with it for now, until you determine it is insufficient.

 

[ericdm]

I have a 120 corner acrylic tank with a 40 breeder sump at 10in water level i have 100 lbs of sand and 125 lbs fiji dry rock i run a filter sock and sro 3000 internal skimmer with neck extension i will be able to have whatever bioload i want and handle it just fine thats my defination of srong skimmer