View Full Version : Skimmer size?
SpongeBob
03-24-2003, 7:30 PM
Why would a smaller skimmer not work for a larger tank? For example, a Euro-Reef CS6-1 for a 200? Wouldn't the smaller skimmer just need to be cleaned a lot more than a larger one?
Or is the skimmer's abilty to skim just too slow to keep up with the bio load?
Just curious.
VoodooChild
03-24-2003, 8:35 PM
I would imagine that, just as a powerhead can only move water alot in one side of that large of a tank, a skimmer would only remove so much from certain areas, which I guess goes back to you saying that it won't be able to keep up with the tank.
SpongeBob
03-25-2003, 8:49 PM
Any other comments on this?
That pretty much sums it up... Now, why can't you just put on a bigger PH, right? Well, skimmers have an effective range and unless yer in it, the "froth" just doesn't happen properly...
reefpicker
03-28-2003, 11:01 PM
This is a very good question and your reasoning is very interesting, however there are a few problems here...
If you switch the PH of a small skimmer, you will change the GPH which will in turn increase the contact time inside the reaction chamber. In other words, the water will move faster, thus decreasing the time it has to absorb organics, and thereby decreasing the effectiveness of the skimmer.
The other problem with small skimmers in big tanks is that the skimmer can really be overwhelmed, which means cleaning the collection cup and the raiser tube more frequently...
One other piece of info: small skimmers are usually cheaper, and cheap skimmers are usually less efficient. This is the reason why they are rated for smaller tanks in the first place.
If you told us a little more about your setup perhaps we could help you choose a good skimmer... a cost-effective skimmer, the right size for you tank and wallet ;)
Just my 2c
SpongeBob
03-29-2003, 5:46 AM
It was a theoretical question. Thanks.