Skimmer in FW?

[gt1009]

I wouldn't be asking but the tank I just bought has a sump with a built in skimmer in it. I'm not running it now, but I was wondering if it would have any positive affect on the filtration to run it. Looks like I just plug an air pump into it and it starts skimming.

 

[Sploke]

Protein skimmers rely on the increased surface tension in saltwater to perform effectively. They really aren't that effective in FW.

 

[RodInCALIFORNIA]

they dont work for freshwater tanks but you can use it if you want wont hurt anything.

 

[jpappy789]

I believe there are surface skimmers designed for FW however...likely you've got a protein skimmer which as Sploke explained doesn't really do anything for FW.

 

[GoldLenny]

Is this a possible over-flow box for a sump? A picture speaks a 1,000 words. ;-)

 

[gt1009]

No it's not an overflow lol I know my gear. I guess it will just chill unless someone can think of a mod I can make to it to use it as a FW filter. I'm up for anything really.

 

[GoldLenny]

I'm sure a pic would help folks make suggestions for a DIY mod as well.

 

[kj5kb]

Depending on the model and condition, your best bet may be to sell the skimmer and buy an overflow iffin you need one.

 

[gt1009]

Kj, if you had read my original post you would know that I have an overflow because I am running a sump. Here's a picture of what I'm talking about. It is molded from the same piece of plastic as the sump tank.

 

[Slappy*McFish]

A standard SW protein skimmer is just an aerator on a FW tank.