Which skimmer design? - pictures includ.

[naterealbig]

I'm going to build a skimmer for my 180g (will be about 250gal setup total when everything is done). I'm stuck in the planning phase, because I'm not sure which design to go with. Any opinions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks,

Nate

 

[naterealbig]

Ok,

I'm not sure what I'm doing wrong here. Is there not enough pictures? Am I not explaining myself well enough? Has everyone looking at this thread already seen a million like it and just don't feel like replying to another stupid question? Maybe it's the homeless guy I didn't give money to the other day - karma can be a *****. Uh, I was kidding about that. Anyway, I have posted this exact same thread in 2 other forums, in which a total of 100+ people have viewed and not one reply. I'm not saying anyone owes me anything, I'm just trying to figure out if there is a way to entice more replies. Thanks for any advice,

Nate

 

[EnderG60]

the downdraft/box style will be more efficient design, even with just one camber rather then two, but two would work pretty well as well.

 

[Drakis]

You could add a recirc. pump to the left design, it would increase the gunk output.....

 

[naterealbig]

Maybe do one beckett from the tank, and recirc the second one?

 

[Theexp]

Is the one to the left a replica or weathersons big skimmer? Sorry i'm no skimmer expert so i couldn't help ya out...

 

[Brian Prestwood]

They look like down draft (becket) skimmers. Are they? If not, what is the foam mechanism?

 

[scaryperson27]

The one on the left with a NW pump would be my choice.

 

[mr.wilson]

Protein skimmer design is a hot topic, but you sometimes raise more questions than answers. I too find it frustrating that after all of these years we can't agree on the best design, but I guess that's part of the fun.

Both of your plans will work well, but they have their pros and cons. Here's a link to a thread covering the same topic. http://www.aquariumpros.ca/forums/showthread.php?t=22424&highlight=skimmer+dilema

You may also want to consider this option. http://www.aquariumpros.ca/forums/showthread.php?t=22707

 

[andycook]

I like the left design except why reduce the neck? That only results in energy loss. Also, why the two 90s on the water drain? Won't a straight out pipe also work?