Skimmer info needed..

[Dapozer]

After reading a few comments here and some more from the web I have decided that a Skimmer is needed and not just a toy for my tank. Tanks is a 75 RR housing some aggressive fish that will get some size on them. The tank will also be max load (i"m Guessing). I am running a old wet/dry (americal) and the sump is rather small 11.5x9.5. I also have the return pump (rio 800) in the sump at this time. I think external mount skimmer will be needed (open to ideas about in sump, I would prefer in sump). I was looking at ASM skimmer but the foot print is large for what I think I need, I don't think a g1 or g1x is big enough and will make sump crowded. also do not want a HOB one as I want to hide in the cabinet. Reef Octopus is looking as a choice. any other or ideas.
Thanks
Shawn

 

[daverf]

Hey Shawn, after PMing you I saw this post, so I thought I'd respond to see if any other more experienced reefers would agree or have better advice than me based on my reply.

The AquaC EV skimmers are top notch (you can search on them to see), and can be set up so the skimmer body is outside the sump. That is a great option for your situation, if you have room next to the sump. I have an ASM skimmer in my tank and one I'm trying to sell, I agree with you that it probably won't work out given your space constraint. I don't know anything about the Reef Octopus so someone else can hopefully answer on that one.

You'll get lots of different opinions on wet/dry, but my understanding is they are a nitrate trap after time and it is best to get rid of the bioballs. When I had one, I never even ran the bioballs. I just used the extra space for media/heaters, or to let the water free fall through my overflow line. As long as it isn't too noisy/bothersome, that will help your system's oxygen exchange.