what next?
- Thread starter cyacop
- Start date
What skimmer are you using now? Maybe we can help you get some extra oomph out of that.
Also you say you have a sump, but you're running a filtration system. It would be better and safer generally (especially in case of power outages) to run without a filter, with just the live rock and sand. That way you don't have a mass of nitrate sitting still in your water system if the power goes out. And all your waste gets processed more efficiently, and released as gas. The main need for a filter system is if you're a FOWLR or filter-based fish-only tank. Reefs are generally filterless.
A potent skimmer, however, is a real asset.
Maxijet 1200 as a skimmer pump for a 75 would be ok, but I'd prefer a Mag 5 with a more potent skimmer (overpower a skimmer and it will do nothing but spit water) ; but for a return pump in a 75, I'd recommend something above a Mag 9.5, unless there are particular reasons for low flow. Can you explain your system's focus? Reef, type, FOWLR, fish load, etc?
Also you say you have a sump, but you're running a filtration system. It would be better and safer generally (especially in case of power outages) to run without a filter, with just the live rock and sand. That way you don't have a mass of nitrate sitting still in your water system if the power goes out. And all your waste gets processed more efficiently, and released as gas. The main need for a filter system is if you're a FOWLR or filter-based fish-only tank. Reefs are generally filterless.
A potent skimmer, however, is a real asset.
Maxijet 1200 as a skimmer pump for a 75 would be ok, but I'd prefer a Mag 5 with a more potent skimmer (overpower a skimmer and it will do nothing but spit water) ; but for a return pump in a 75, I'd recommend something above a Mag 9.5, unless there are particular reasons for low flow. Can you explain your system's focus? Reef, type, FOWLR, fish load, etc?
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Ah. How big is your sump? Have you got about an 8x10 space with some overhead room? An Aqua C EV series has a fairly low profile, takes about that footprint. They can work either inside or outside the sump (leaving room for a fuge). Mine sits on eggcrate above the sump. I use the EV 120 for a 54g tank and 30g sump/fuge, reckon it as somewhere near 80 system gallons. It works well for me and was reasonable in cost---plus easy to clean, but others will recommend other skimmers. I think you are right to take this step: a better skimmer will improve your water and is a safety measure---if you should get a cyano outbreak, etc.
Also if you are going to run corals, I'd phase out the wet-dry little at a time, and maybe install a small lighted fuge in that space.
Also consider a used skimmer: as long as the system has no cracks and has all its pieces, at least with the Aqua C, it is darned hard to break. A little overnight soak in straight white vinegar (they can clog) and it will work like a charm.
Also if you are going to run corals, I'd phase out the wet-dry little at a time, and maybe install a small lighted fuge in that space.
Also consider a used skimmer: as long as the system has no cracks and has all its pieces, at least with the Aqua C, it is darned hard to break. A little overnight soak in straight white vinegar (they can clog) and it will work like a charm.
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WOW. i ran into this , http://www.melevsreef.com/what_sump.html, it seems like a perfect set up for me. mentions your protein skimmer and everything sk8r
