skimmer question

[bolohead]

ok heres my info:
INFO:
Skimmer: Nautilus EX 24
Pump: Mag Drive 1200 (1200gph & recommended by Kent Marine)
Connection Hose: 2 ft connecting to 3/4" NPT on both skimmer and pump

PROBLEM:
With the release valve completely open, the water level in the skimmer is near the collar of the skimmer(very close to the collection cup). The manual on the skimmer recommends that the water level to be about 1" to 3" below the collar.

QUESTION:
How do I reduce the pressure inside the skimmer?

NOTE:
I've attempted to increase the length of the Connection Hose (to 6') hoping that would decrease the pressure but the problem still occurs. As stated previously, I've also opened the release valve completely and also tried to adjust the air intake valve(even opened it completely), but to no avail.

HELP:
I'm sure skimmers are similar in terms of making adjustments, which is why i'm inquiring others to see what others might be doing. Is the water level fine if its at the collar even though the manufacturer recommends it a little lower? Would increasing the diameter of the Connection Hose help?

 

[Joey D]

Sounds like an air intake problem, not enough air or bubbles. Or, remember skimmers take some time to work. It all depends on the bio load in your system. Sometimes they may take a few days to start skimming properly

 

[Jbagel2]

just a thought, have you tried raising the elevation of your skimmer to raise the downward water presure, it should lower the skimmer water level.

 

[bolohead]

yes i did actually, but still was not effective(perhaps because of the pressure from the pump remained). what did work was placing a T-connector between the pump and skimmer and attaching a ball valve to it. I was able to adjust the amount of pressure going into the sump as the excess from the ball valve simpy returned back into the sump. works great now!