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FAQs about DIY Protein Skimmers
Related Articles: DIY Skimmers,
Skimmers by Steven
Pro, Protein
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Filtration, Mechanical, Physical
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DIY SKIMMER, design 11/29/08
Hello WWM crew!
<Ian>
Sorry about the grammer, read it and was suprised!
<Happens>
You guys have a great site and i always use it! Heres my situation,
i am building a diy skimmer and have everything set up except for the neck. My
problem is: should the top part of the skimmer where the foam dries out(neck?)
be narrow or wide?
<Mmm, either... some folks make narrower in order to make
an easier "platform" to situate the collector cup... others make the cup and
contact chamber the same diameter, and just set the former on top...>
Also,
should it gradually become narrower toward the extreme top?
<Again, not
necessarily... "if" the water level is adjusted w/in use, some/enough of the
bubbles and gunk will accumulate near any "foamy" area near the top... rise and
burst in the area of the exit into the collector cup>
I have been researching
different skimmer models such as the ASM G-seris and Coralife skimmers. ASM and
Precision Marine skimmers have a relatively wide neck that is uniform up to the
top, while Coralife and Turboflotor have a narrower neck that slims as it
approaches the top. How should i design my neck and what are the pros and cons
of the different styles of skimmers?
<Mmm, there's surprisingly little actual
science with this line of gear in our interest... Sometimes "looks" and just
what materials are available have dictated (are dictating) what goes into
fractionators... not enough consideration of actual function>
Thank you in
advance, Happy Thanksgiving,
Ian
<Now in my turkey sandwiches, digestion
phase. Cheers, Bob Fenner>
DIY Skimmer 4/19/08
Hi I currently have a 28gl mini reef and am just beginning to build a custom
overflow with acrylic to add water volume and house my heater, skimmer,
(SeaClone 100 but upgrading soon) etc.
<A very worthwhile project.>
After measuring my supplies I think I’ll have more than enough acrylic to DIY my
first skimmer. Without going into too much detail my basic plan is to feed an
acrylic skimmer with the return from my Rena FilStar XP2 canister filter but my
main concern is how to get air into the mix.
<Hmm, yes.>
This wouldn't be a problem except I'm out of power outlets so I was thinking
about some kind of venturi valve. I recently bought a power head that just had a
little air line sticking out of the top of the nozzle which I guess sucked in
air by creating some kind of siphoning effect.
<Yes, similar to a siphon effect.>
If I did the same thing but had the air line at the end of the outtake tube from
the filter going into the skimmer would this suck enough air?
<Likely not, but worth a try to see.>
Would I need it below or above the water line to work?
<Below the waterline inside the skimmer.>
Could I just use pvc or would I need a real valve that gets narrow were the air
line is?
<PVC will work, although you may find the need to construct some sort of
constriction in the line to draw in air.>
Also wile I'm saving up for a new skimmer I’ve been thinking of ways to improve
my Seaclone (hopefully from horrible piece of crap into mediocre headache) and
from my understanding of skimmer design the longer the bubbles are in contact
with the water the more efficient the skimmer, so I was wondering if adding a
long coiled up piece of flexible tubing after the power head but before the
skimmer would increase the contact time it sounds like it would be great but
what do you think?
<Contact time is just one factor in the equation. Bubble quality is another.
Many small bubbles being superior to a few large bubbles. With the long run of
coiled tubing before entering the skimmer the bubbles will combine into larger
bubbles.>
Should I try this on my DIY skimmer? Sorry about the long letter I’ve just got a
lot on my mind I just hope this makes at least a little bit of sense.
<Oh yes, it does! This is a project I strongly encourage you to pursue. Building
your own skimmer rarely works optimally the first time out. You will need to
just build it and start playing with different configurations regarding
water/air intake and maybe even the skimmer body itself. It is as much
research/development and trial/error as anything. I will advise you to use a
dedicated pump for the skimmer. Besides the difficulty of drawing air off the
canister, you will have a varied output dependant on the cleanliness of your
filtration media inside the canister. I just will not be consistent. The pump
off your Seaclone will be a good place to start.>
Thanks and keep up the good work!
<Welcome, will do!! Thank you and good luck, Scott V.>
AquaClear 500 to Skimmer
11/21/07
Hi, I have a spare AquaClear 500 hang on filter and was wondering if there
is a way to convert it to a protein skimmer for use in my sump.
<Unlikely, wrong size, shape and mechanics. You would be better off purchasing a
skimmer or building one from scratch if you are handy.>
<Chris>
Skimmer ID?...Tis Homemade Me Thinks -
05/15/07
Hi crew!
<<Hi Glen!>>
Hope you are very well.
<<Yes... Thank you>>
Can you possibly help me identify the attached protein skimmer?
<<Looks homemade to me mate>>
I got it in a package deal with the recent 200g tank I purchased. It is
venturi driven and looks large and very sturdy, but I am yet to get any
results because the tank is not yet cycling, so there are very few
things to skim out?
<<Mmm, no...should be producing skimmate...especially if the live rock
is not fully cured. From the photos it appears to me there are not many
bubbles in the reaction chamber of the skimmer as it looks to be
semi-transparent through the bubbles (do I see the tube from the
collection cup extending almost to the bottom of the skimmer?). The
reaction chamber should be completely opaque/milky white from the
bubbles, regardless of whether there is anything in the water to
skim. It may be a matter of tuning this skimmer...or it may just be a
poor design/engineering. If you can't get this skimmer working for you
and you want to stick with a "hang-on" style, I suggest you look in to
the AquaC Remora Pro as a quality replacement>>
Many thanks!
Glen Hendry
<<Happy to assist. Eric Russell>> |
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Re: Skimmer ID?...Tis Homemade Me Thinks - 05/16/07
OK great info thanks.
<<Quite welcome>>
BTW: There is no live rock yet, just ~60lbs of base rock and dead corals;
therefore should the skimmer still be producing skimmate?
<<Hmm, perhaps not much then...but that skimmer should still be “producing
bubbles” as stated previously>>
I am leaving the system circulating for a couple of weeks with just water and
salt and the base rock. The first LR will come this week and the cycling will
begin.
<<Yes indeed>>
I will tune or re-pump with skimmer then.
<<Okay>>
This leads me to another question, I made a mistake and got 1" sand for 200g
display tank substrate, which is white and fine and lovely to look at, but it is
play sand from home hardware store and likely (but unknown) Silica based.
<<Probably, yes...though dropping a pinch in some white vinegar should tell>>
Will I have uncontrollable nuisance algae forever, or will keeping nitrates at
~0 with 8" DSB and macro in the 'fuge keep it in check?
<<It should be fine. I and others I know have used Silica-based sand in marine
systems with no adverse effect re. The biggest downfall is the lack of buffer
capacity/absence of useful Earth-element and bio-mineral content as compared to
Aragonite-based sand>>
I will if I have to, but do not want to have to remove all the base rock and
siphon out all that sand! It has just settled after all :)
<<No need to my friend...not in my opinion>>
Thanks again, truly.
Glen
<<Always welcome, enjoy your new setup. Eric Russell>> |
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Sinularia sp. coral cutting? Filtration questions. Alcyoniid
comp., skimmer sel. 3/31/07
Hello Bob,
I have been watching a Sinularia sp coral in my 90 gallon reef for the last week
since it was injured by something in the tank, (we came to the conclusion it was
more than likely stung).
<I do recall this>
The dead patch on the coral seems to be spreading now, I was thinking of using a
razor blade and slicing off (out) the infected (Dead) tissue then giving the
coral a tech D or Lugol's solution dip directly after.
<A useful approach... Do this cutting outside the main system... of course>
The torch coral I mentioned in previous emails seems to be doing well now, the
one damaged head died off, however no sign of infection as far as I am aware of
and all of the other heads look great. I have another Sinularia sp coral same
type and color about 8 inches from the injured one
<Mmm... not advised... really... in the wild, all the Alcyoniids, in fact almost
all alcyonaceans are found in single species AND single genus stands... Unless
these are clones, I would keep them in separate systems...>
and it seems to be doing excellent. All other corals in the tank are doing very
good.
I am putting a larger filtration system on this tank, I don't have much room to
do a larger tank as you mentioned before so I decided to put in a
larger filtration system below it. I will be using a sump that while running
holds 30 - 32 gallons, (full sump size 53 gallons) with 1,270 gallons per
hour flowing from sump to tank. In this sump I created an area for biological
media since the tank is pretty heavily stocked. The water from the overflow
runs through filter floss, then through bio media, a settling chamber then
over flows into a space for activated carbon (Chemi-pure), then into a
chamber that houses a poly filter pad. From there the water goes into a large
empty area for protein skimming, temperature control, and return to the
reef. Does this sound like a good idea to you?
<Mmm, yes. Some folks would encourage the placement of the skimmer first... the
chemical media last... In actual application there is little (a few percent)
advantage...>
I am also putting a larger protein skimmer on the tank measurements 7"
diameter, 36" to top of neck in collection cup, the skimmer will be run by
a 1,100 gallon per hour pump. Would this pump be excessive to you?
<Mmm... no... if this "fits" the use of this device...>
I already have the pump and I figured that is a pretty big skimmer. This skimmer
is a venturi style skimmer.
<For you and all readers, beware of "venturi" this or that... Sure, sure, it's a
fun word to say, but has actually little to do with whether a skimmer is
more/less "efficient"...>
The bubbles from the venturi will have to rise 30" in complete contact with the
water to the neck of the skimmer. The skimmer will also have a 10" diameter cup
on it to allow for more collection between cleanings. I designed the skimmer to
be completely taken apart for access to all parts of it for cleaning and
maintenance,
<Ah, good!>
and when put back together it is completely sealed. The return to the sump will
have a gate valve,
<Do remove the metal screw in the handle...>
and entry to the skimmer will also have a flow control valve. I will be using
3/8" air line for the venturi that will feed into the top of the collection cup
to cut down on noise. Both lines running into and out of the skimmer are 1"
diameter PVC.
Any feedback or comments on this would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you so much for your time and consideration.
Brian Crenshaw
PS. I also received my microscope (QX5) and the Fish Disease Diagnosis, and
Treatment book you recommended. Both are great! Thank you again.
<Ahh! Many enjoyable and constructive hours ahead... and the sharing with
others!!! BobF>
Skimmer/Refugium Question 3/20/07
Hello!
<Hi Rob>
Thank you all so much for your knowledge!
<You're welcome.>
I know of no other place to get reliable, accurate answers to my, sometimes
stupid questions!
<No stupid questions, just stupid answers.>
So Its your fault that I keep bugging you!!
<I/we accept the blame.>
I have a pond liner tank beneath a south facing window. This tank has live
sand/rock, coral and a few inverts. It is connected to a reverse light cycle
refuge with Chaeto and a skimmer. My plan is to place a 75 gallon next to this
tank connected by an overflow. The 75 will contain a few fish, sand and live
rock. Making the pond liner tank my refuge. It will remain fish free. I am
planning on making another diy skimmer to connect to the overflow. It will then
dump it's out-flow into a ten gallon tank with the Chaeto. The skimmer will have
two limewood airstones,
<I'd rather use a venturi, the limewood airstones do produce a fine bubble mist,
but do clog easily and need to be cleaned/replaced often.>
and be about three feet tall. Powered only by the overflow.
<Different.>
My thought is to make this a low flow system to get the best out of the skimmer
and Chaeto before it reaches the coral tank. Does this make sense?
<All depends on how well your DIY skimmer works.>
I have heard," the higher flow rate, the better" when it comes to skimmers. This
doesn't make absolute sense to me.
<We are talking powered skimmers here where higher flow rates process more water
per hour.>
I would think, the longer the water stays in the skimmer
<Yes, contact time is important. Generally, the larger the contact chamber, the
better.>
and in contact with the Chaeto, the better the results.
<The water in the ten gallon tank will always be in contact with the Chaeto. No
skimmer will completely remove all nutrients in one pass.>
Please help! I would like to, for once, do this right the first time!!
<Do read here and linked files above for more help in your decision making. http://www.wetwebmedia.com/proskimrart2.htm>
Not sure what fish I will be putting in the 75 gallon yet. They wont be big
messy fish, but don't want to have to worry about them being reef safe! I want a
small niger trigger for sure, and then we will see!
Thanks a lot!
<You're welcome. James (Salty Dog)>
Rob
Skimmer ID 1/23/07
Hey crew,
<Hey Brandon>
If anyone can place a name on this skimmer it should/would be ya'll. Can
you please tell me what type of skimmer this is or does it look like
some DIY project. I can not find information on it anywhere and I need
to know if a Mag 2 will run it, if not will my Mag 7 blow the top off of
it.
<Definitely appears to be a DIY. Never saw a manufactured skimmer that
looked like that. Try the Mag 2, I'm thinking it should do the
trick. You do have valves on the outlet/inlet to control the flow, so
too much pump should not be a problem.>
Thanks,
<You're welcome. James (Salty Dog)>
Brandon |
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DIY Protein skimmer and stocking/setup ?'s 11/19/06
Bob, et. al.
<Branon>
I recently moved and am able to set up my 150 gal (72x18x28) as a reef
tank. I don't have 'deep pockets' and would like to do this as
inexpensively, yet effectively as possible. I am attaching thoughts on a
DIY protein skimmer
<Don't see here... have you reviewed those on OzReef.org?>
<<Oh, actually do see it here... there is a concern I have with the
source/delivery of water to this skimmer... I would NOT have the
overflowing water from the tank above simply feed the skimmer as
illustrated... too hard to determine the consequent level of water in
the contactor... with the adjustment valve shown... Need to either
provide a "constant level" sort of overflow to this feed (like a simple
tee with the excess dumping into the sump) or another non-gravity feed
source...>>
for your review/input. If these plans aren't workable, then I may have
to save my pennies and get a Turboflotor 1000 (is the multi better than
the sump model?
Vice versa?)
<About the same IMO>
I am also asking for your opinions on the proposed stock list and setup.
I am upgrading from a 55 gal, 4-5" DSB, 60 lbs LR and a few soft corals.
I plan on only doing 1/2-1" sand/rubble in main tank and using approx
110 lbs of aragonitic concrete rock base (Aragocrete), seeded with the
LR I already have and a few lbs of new stuff. Main filtration will be
surface skimmer--> filter pad (avoid detritus buildup-changed/cleaned
weekly)-->1 cu. ft. of bioballs (oxygenation)-->LR rubble-->mag18 T-ed
to the far ends of the tank. Additional circulation will be 3 MaxiJet
900s and either the
CAP 2200 or Surge 3500 (both about 650 gph) as CL. The total anticipated
flow will be about 2300 gph on the modest side. The PS will empty into a
24x18x5" DSB fuge/algae scrubber pumped back into the sump feeding the
Mag18. A DIY Kalk-reactor and float valve will take care of top-off.
Softies are the primary focus for corals (2x250W 10000k MH and 2x65W CFL
Actinics). Starting livestock are an ocellaris clown adult, a coral
beauty angel, a lg. yellow watchman goby, a skunk cleaner shrimp, a
coral banded shrimp, 2 peppermint shrimp and some sm. hermits and
snails. My desired livestock are: Sailfin tang and/or purple tang,
another dwarf angel (flame or Singapore), six-lined wrasse, copper-band
butterfly, 6-8 blue reef Chromis (dithers), 4-6 Ventralis anthias, algae
blenny, Rainford's goby, a few more peppermint shrimp, a fire cleaner
shrimp, a Linckia star and more snails...no more hermits. Corals will be
of the hardier softies...Ricordea, anthelia, mushrooms, zoos, frogspawn,
bubble, Capnella, etc... I would also like to through in a clam
(Tridacna, I think). The livestock will come gradually, w/ snails,
corals and Chromis first, allowing the Aragocrete to become populated.
This will start after 2 mon. of the tank being up and running, thought
slowly. The protein skimmer won't be run until the tank's been running
for about 4 mon to allow colonization. The next additions will be the
wrasse, goby, blenny, and shrimps. Next follows the copper-band, then
the tang(s), then the dwarf. The Linckia will be added after 8mon-1yr
for stability and the anthias at about the same time-frame. The only new
equipment being added is the mag18 and PS. I already have all the
materials for the rest. Thank you for your time and input.
<Sounds like a very nice plan... and it's obvious you have been
studying... your careful approach here will surely serve you. Bob
Fenner>
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Counter Current Protein skimmer dimensions? 10/8/06
Hello, it's been a while since I've pestered y'all because everything's been
going so well...shucks! Well, I'm moving to a larger house and will be upgrading
my 55 gal reef setup to a 150 gal setup (72x18x28)
<Man! Wish I could triple my income!>
and I'm wondering about upgrading my protein skimmer with a DIY similar to that
on your site. I would like to make the body out of PVC and about 24-30" total
height--ish. I would like to know what the recommended diameter & height should
be and if using a Surge 3500 pump (660gph @ 0') would be advisable for this
application. Also, would it work more efficiently to use the venturi in
conjunction with the air stone(s)--I'm thinking 2-3 lime wood stones?
<Nah! The diffuser and air driven mechanism is an outright pain to maintain...
use a venturi...>
Here is my design to make sure I'm not forgetting/missing anything: 1 overflow
w/ 2x1.5" drains (currently in use on the 150gal) into 15 gal DSB algae
scrubber/refugium (heavy-duty Rubbermaid-type bucket) which spills over into 30
gal settling tank/sump (another Rubbermaid) for protein skimmer/auto-top off
from RO/DI.
<Mmm, I'd reverse these two sumps and their contents... easier to keep a
constant water level in/with the skimmer... and more room for the DSB/Algae...>
Depending on budget, a Nielsen reactor as well. A 1" bulk head will feed into a
little giant 1/12 hp industrial application pump w/ 3/4" inlet & outlet
(currently feeding the 150 gal with a measured 550 gph w/ approx 6' head and
feeding an under gravel jet system, so about 14' total of 3/4" pvc structure.),
with ball valves before and after, and running through a SQUID. A CAP 2200
(675gph @ 0') will power a closed loop and additional current will be added by
2-3 MaxiJet 900 or 1200s. Total flow target is 1200+ gph. The tank will be set
up for soft corals and inverts and will likely be lightly stocked (small
budget). I'm planning a 4" DSB w/ plenum and will be starting w/ 70-150#s LR (I
already have 70# and may get the rest, pending some good fortune),
<And specials on "whole box" deals...>
with plans to add more as $ is available. Lighting will be 2x250W 10000k Ushio
MH and 2x60W CFL actinics. Oh, I was also offered a snowflake moray and told
they're reef safe...opinions seem mixed on this. Any input?
<Mmm, "safer"... but still will eat all smallish crustaceans... run into
things... produce a goodly amount of ammonia with size...>
Thank
you for your invaluable assistance.
Branon
<Do look over the fab DIY site: OzReef.org for input re the skimmer... and more!
Bob Fenner>
- Skimmer Operation 6/23/06 -
Hello crew,
<Hello.>
I have a homemade Down draft skimmer ( plan from the web. The first week, it
seemed to work well. Lots of bubbles an produced kind of thickened dark green
juice. I collected about 1/2 cup a day. Now, it seem to less bubbles, and the
level of bubbles kind of low. If I increase the pressure (by open inlet valve
bigger), it produced wet, and lots of water.
The outlet is set full open and at lowest setting. So I only can control the
inlet. Is there something I have do wrong, or something I can make it works
better?
<Well... very difficult to "know" if you did something wrong as I can't see your
skimmer. However, many times new skimmers work amazingly well in the first
couple of days because the tank has never been skimmed before - only to settle
down to a much lower level once dissolved organics are under control. It could
very well be that your skimmer is working just fine. I'd give it some time.>
Thanks, Vinh.
<Cheers, J -- >
Skimmer upgrading problems 6/11/06
Hello,
<Hi there>
I just tried to retro fit my Top Fathom skimmer model 100. It's originally a
venturi type that ran w/ a Mag 7. It only works okay in my opinion so I
decided to try "modernizing" it w/ the Aquamedic Ocean Runner 2700 using it's
needle wheel design and going away from the old venturi type skimmer.
Upon finishing all of my plumbing and tapping the input fitting for the airline
to the needle wheel pump and set-up, didn't really work very well at all!?
<Not too surprising, considering the "engineering" involved to have about a/the
"right" amount of pressure, flow rate... may not be able to be done with the
height of water in the TF contactor column at all... There's more than "cutting,
gluing whatever size/shape of parts" to making a functioning skimmer for sure>
It didn't really suck up many air bubbles and I'm very disappointed and wonder
what I may have done wrong?
<Mmm, if you can "bench test" the unit, try changing a static/set amount of
head/height of water in the contactor (the tall tube)... at some amount of water
here the given pump, impeller will push a goodly amount of bubbly water... you
might be able to modify the contactor (by cutting it, re-solventing it to the
lower height... to make it work...>
I lightly blew into the tubing to see if more air would help but it just bubbled
out of the input (w/out it's sponge pre-filter installed at this point).
<Ahh, telling>
Are needle-wheel pumps all alike?
<Mmm, no>
Should I have tried to use a Sedra pump instead as recommended by my LFS?
<This should generate a bit more head, might work, or work better...>
I didn't think there to be any real difference between them?
<Oh yes>
Is there something I may have missed in my conversion that I'm not aware of
and/or it's compatibility w/ my Top Fathom skimmer? It seems very close to the
Euro
skimmer to me but???
<... not that similar... the Euro Reef skimmers are well-engineered...>
So until I can figure this out, I configured everything back to the way it was
(w/ the venturi input but left the Aquamedic Ocean Runner pump in place
at this time). So now I suppose that I need a regular Aquamedic Ocean Runner
2500 impeller unless the only difference between the 2500 and 3500 is the
impeller (same body and magnet) and not the housing (like Mag pumps). Could you
please tell me if the 2500 and 3500 model pump housings are the same size?
<Don't know... but appear to be. I'd write the manufacturer re>
If this is the case, then I could use the larger 3500's impeller for increased
flow rate. I would get more flow out of the pump than using the standard 2500
impeller.
<Not this simple... Think about what you're considering here... What might be
the consequence of just increasing flow rate? Pressure? The amount of
"bubbliness" of the flow water? How might you have to/want to change the height,
diameter of the contactor column, the overflow of water from here... to get you
what you seek?>
Please help and thanks in advance,
Joe
<Keep scheming, devising here Joe... and consider the time "savings" from just
buying a better unit. Bob Fenner>
Bonding PVC - 05/13/06
Bob/staff,
<<EricR here>>
Hi.
<<Hello>>
I am going to be building a DIY skimmer with my dad to replace the Skilter.
<<Cool!>>
I want to know is it safe to use pvc glue to bond pvc pipe?
<<Yes...and your only practical alternative for secure/leak-proof joints>>
Will it be toxic to the reef animals?
<<Not once it dries/cures>>
I am using the design on WWM/ DIY skimmers.
Thanks
John
<<Good luck with your project, EricR>>
DIY Beckett Skimmer 8/2/05
Hello crew. I have finished my DIY skimmer and got it hooked up to my sump
to test it out. To my surprise it looks like it might actually work. I have
one problem though. The Beckett is producing very fine bubbles, but some
are getting trapped under the top of the box, and when they get big enough
they burb up to the top. Do you have any ideas on how I can fix this?
Also, it is not producing any type of foam head. Is this because it is
fresh, clean saltwater with no fish or anything? (All I did was mix up some
saltwater to test it, it's not even hooked up to the tank yet.) Please let
me know if you did not receive the pics, because I believe you need them to
better answer, plus I would love to see them posted cause this thing only
cost me about $150. Thank you.
Mike
<Please read here:
http://wetwebmedia.com/bubtroubfaqs.htm
and use the Google search tool on WWM with the terms "skimmer, bubbles"... look
up cached so it will highlight... Bob Fenner>
- Questions about DIY Skimmer Design -
Hi there,
I'm thinking of trying the DIY skimmer you have the designs for at http://www.wetwebmedia.com/diyskimmer.htm
<Ok.>
I was wondering why there needs to be two slip valves and three separate pieces of clear
PVC at the top?
<At least one of the slip connections is so you can remove and clean the collection cup. I'm thinking the second one would let you adjust the height of the riser tube. The clear PVC would give you an idea of how the skimmer is performing.>
Why not just one piece of PVC?
<Well... you would want to at least clean the thing, yes?>
Also what rating of air pump would you recommend?
<I'd spend the big bucks and buy a Luft pump... worth the money and should deliver plenty of air.>
Ditto for rating of water pump?
<Is up to you... the larger the better... I'd think at least 500 to 750 GPH for starters.>
Cheers, Emma
<Cheers, J -- >
DIY protein skimmer
Its a in tank co current model I made based on the diagram given in
www.saltaquarium.about.com. <Definitely pretty impressive to be able to
follow a diagram like that.> I am attaching the picture of the same. It
also say its the least efficient skimmer as it requires lots of
maintenance which makes me wonder why I selected this design. <Just
trying it out? planning on doing another perhaps?>
I assumed that the water will flow out from the bottom which I have kept
it open.
Its more than 24 hrs and my skimmer is till working. It produces much
thick dry foam. But the greenish / brownish gunk is still not visible. (
Could it be that there are no fishes in my tank , the greenish gunk is
not appearing )<Is it a brand new tank?>
I stay in India and its really difficult for us to get good protein
skimmers like Euro Reef , Aqua C etc etc... Even if we get, its very
very very costly that we Indians cannot imagine to buy it. Nor we can
buy it directly from a outsource as we have to make payment to the
manufacturers in dollars which is not possible because of various
government regulations.( Dollars can flow into India but cannot flow out
. hahaha )<Definitely a problem.>
Anyway I will consider your advise and act upon it. <Good luck and
please do let us know, MacL>
I will keep u informed.
Thanks Adam, for your immediate reply You guys are really doing a
wonderful
job.
Best Regards,
Rajesh
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DIY Protein Skimmer design 9/23/04
Hello Crew, I just made a protein skimmer. I don't know whether I have made it
right or wrong. So I am sending you the diagram of the same and requesting your
expert advice. Mine is a 40 gallon FISH ONLY tank and the height of the
protein skimmer is 18 Inches.
<Based on your diagram, the basic designs looks Ok, but you don't show an
outlet. Water must be able to move through the skimmer.>
I had ick in my tank and now its empty for almost a month. I have kept the air
pressure for this skimmer at maximum and its producing enough foam. But the only
problem is its only plain water which remains in the collection cup. I am not
getting the tea colour waste matter as discussed in the wetweb forum. Have I
gone any where wrong? Please advise. <It sounds like the water level in your
skimmer is too high. It looks like this unit is designed to hang in the tank,
correct? I am sending back your diagram with an outlet added. I would
construct the outlet of 1" pipe. You can adjust the water level in the skimmer
by raising or lowering the unit in the water. I hope this helps! Best Regards.
AdamC.>
Red Algae, Diy skimmer, and Beautiful black Arowana
Hi,<Hi back, MikeD here> I am some what new to this site but I really enjoy
it so far. Couple questions if you can help. I have a 75 gallon reef tank and
just lately its starting to get over taken by the bad bubbly red algae I think
it is. Any suggestions on how to get rid of it quickly?<IMO "quickly" is always
a red flag trouble word. There are many things that will make it go away
including 1)increased circulation, 2) RO/DI water,3) increased partial water
changes, 4) eliminating "oily" foods and 5) siphoning it off while doing partial
water changes. There ARE products available to kill it as well, but use with
caution as each has a definite disadvantage to be considered.> I have had it
set up about a year. Also I have 2 aggressive salt water fish I am moving to a
smaller tank anything you can suggest or a site I can look at for a diy skimmer
that's cheap since I only have 2 fish in the tank?<sure...check the DIT forum
here or at Reefcentral.com> One last question, in the 125 gallon I am getting a
large black Arowana and a white Oscar not sure what else if anything, (dorado (doratto?
catfish, sting ray) anything you can suggest?<Arowanas grow to almost 3 ft and
are huge PLYS they are acrobatic jumpers. One will fill a 125 by itself and they
commonly kill themselves leaping into the hood/lid....they can jump almost 3'
straight up after insects, small frogs and even small birds. their mouth has
been compared to a landing barge and their genus name, Osteoglossum, means teeth
on the tongue and they consume HUGE amounts of food as they grow.>. These fish
are paternal mouth brooders would the bright red gravel take away from his
beautiful look or what can you suggest for his aquarium to be set up as.<Almost
anything you'd like. The black Arowanas end up silver and almost identical to
the silvers. Tankmates can be tricky do to their large size and gaping maws, so
I'd suggest caution here....I kept my last one with a Tiger shovelnosed catfish
as a tank buddy, that way anything that dodged one was eaten by the other, with
NEITHER up nor down safe.> I would rather not have it plain. Thank you in
advance for your help. Tim and Kim.<Hope this helps. Use caution if you get a
little one and raise it. I lost a small baby by feeding it a live spider. The
head shaking was evident that it had been bit inside the mouth and it gradually
wasted away from the venom over a period of 10 days or so. This IS rare, but it
CAN happen, with most spiders cheerfully just considered more food.>
Skilter retrofit - 5/7/03
Hello again: <Sooooo sorry for the delay. Have not only been trying to
prepare for the close of my marine biology course but my job is really busy at
the moment. Paul at your service (albeit very very delayed)>
Thanx for your reply, <No problem> i thought you had forgotten
about me!!! <Never, a matter of checking my inbox and getting the time to
answer. So sorry for the delays> But i have a nother???(sorry) What did you
mean by retro fitting my Skilter??? <I know people add airstones and do some
other retro fits I cannot name specifically any retrofit or vouch for its use.
Check out the various forums and DIY sites out there and ask about Skilters and
ways to improve performance on them. I personally have never employed the use of
the Skilter system but have seen it's use in some impressive tanks.> I'm
willing!!! i would like to know how, can you help me on this? <I will keep
your email and try to get some help for you, in the meantime, just do a search
in google for "Skilter" or "Skilter DIY". Here is a starter
link for you to look through http://home1.gte.net/rhe1/nanoreef/comingsoon.htm.
Good luck> do you know some one who can!!!
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR TIME!!! <My pleasure. Sorry for the delay>
Re: Air injection
I am trying to build my own protein skimmer and I have all of it pretty figured
out except for one part. The air injection area. From what I can
see, is it a pinched area in a tube were the air is directly injected through a
small air port on the end of the pinched area causing a jet and sucking the air.
Any insight or internet sights giving insight into air injection on a protein
skimmer, whether venturi or down draft would be great thanks.
John
<Hi John, try these links and those at the top of each page. There are
several options available for injecting air, Beckett injectors, etc.
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/diyskimmer.htm
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/DIYskimrfaqs.htm
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/skimmerfaqs.htm
Also search the web for DIY skimmer plans, there are a bunch out there!
Craig>
Troubleshooting a DIY Protein Skimmer
Hi, I have a diy protein skimmer, I designed it to look like the ReefLife
HOT skimmer. It's 24" H and 4" in diameter. I'm using the Rio 1700
pump and a 3/4" Mazzie injector. The problem I'm having is that the skimmer
fills up all the way to the collection cup and for some reason I am not getting
a fog of micro bubbles. The people at Mazzie spec out this 3/4"
injector for the Rio 1700. The pump up to the injector inlet is 3/4" and
from the outlet of the injector down to the bottom of the skimmer is 1/2"
PVC and the outlet is 3/4" with a gate valve can this be a problem? I'm
only get a few large bubbles, I tested it in tap to see a fog of bubbles but
it's not producing much. The pump is more than enough to drive a venturi
injector. Any clues to want I can do to make it work. Thanks
<Either the injector isn't working, or the pump is pushing too much water
through the skimmer and needs a valve on the inlet, not the
outlet. Give it a try. Craig>
diy skimmer
I have just one more question about my diy skimmer. What is a good flow rate
for an air pump for skimmer?
<Hmm, reminds me of questions re how much water it will take to fill up an
aquarium... depends on the size, depth of the device, types of diffusers,
number... practically speaking you want as many 1 mm. or so diameter bubbles as
you can get.>
The tetra Luft pump is a little pricey, but I know someone who has a Schego air
pump (I have read these are good brands), that puts out 200l/h.
<Both good units. I prefer the Luft pumps for greater longevity and quiet>
Would that be big enough for my skimmer, or do I need bigger?
My skimmer dimensions are again 16"tall(reaction tube), and 4"
diameter. Thanks again for help.
<Both would do... for one, two "stones" (likely limewood)... do
keep these clean, rotated out to dry every week or two. Bob Fenner>
Diy skimmer
This is for Steven Pro, who I sent e-mail to earlier about my DIY skimmer.
Just wanted to elaborate more on my situation and give more details of my setup.
You said that the height of my skimmer depends on my tank size, my tank is 55
gallon.
<Ok>
Here is the link for the skimmer that I made the columnar skimmer on bottom) http://www.eparc.com/diy/skimmers/mercado/skimmer.shtml
<Wow! I am kind of surprised anyone could build anything from those
direction. Unless I missed something there was no parts list, dimensions, or
anything other than a stick drawing.>
You said a slow rate is better and that the flow rate and water level depend on
design of skimmer. Looking at the design from the page I sent you, could you
give me your opinion on flow rate and water level?
<Within an inch or two from the top.>
You said that 200-225 was too fast, what would be a good range?
<I would probably leave this alone for now and get a larger air pump. It will
be easier to adjust one variable at a time and I believe your major problem to
be not enough air.>
I would like to know why you prefer wood stones over ceramic,
<They generally make finer bubbles, which is what you need.>
and if ceramic will work or should I toss them and just buy some wooden ones?
Also if you have any input (good or bad), on the skimmer that I built. Judging
from the page I sent, would you add or change anything to design, and will this
design work good enough for my 55 gallon (have few fish, but would like to have
many nice soft corals)? Thanks again for your help.
<There is not too much I can deduce from this drawing. The design looks
workable depending on how you interpret the drawing. DIY air-driven
counter-current skimmer can work very well. They just need to be played with to
maximize production. -Steven Pro>
DIY Protein Skimmer
Hi WWM
Thanks so much for your guidance thus far. I have never thought myself able to
attempt DIY projects before, however I am now determined to make this skimmer a
success.
Anyway your suggested modifications were very helpful, and in relation to them I
was wondering whether using my old SeaClone's collection cup on the DIY design
would be a good idea.
<It seems a little small.>
I intend to source clear acrylic tubes if possible, with white PVC as a last
resort.
<Also, look around for clear PVC as another option.>
Would it be better to construct my own collection cup, or would the
SeaClone be quite OK?
<Cheap enough to build a larger one. I think Anthony used Rubbermaid food
bowl.>
Also, when you describe water level in the skimmer, and it's control via gate
valves, I follow what you say. However I am at a loss as to where the level
should be optimally set to produce foam. Does the water need to be exactly at
the bottom of the collection cup uptake tube? If so, is this so the foam can
coalesce in the neck and collect?
<Once you have the skimmer constructed it will be far easier to see where you
get maximum production. You want to try to minimize the skimmate collecting in
the neck, but you also want to avoid filling you cup with a nearly clear
skimmate, too. Just below the collection cup is good, but you will have to tweak
this regularly. The only drawback to these DIY designs, they are hands on. I do
not wish to convince you not to do it. Just keep in mind that its performance
depends on how much you are willing to work with it.>
Any information would be greatly appreciated.
Have a great day, Andrew
<Thank you, you too. -Steven Pro>
Tiny Little Starfish
Hello all, or rather, whoever !
I had moved my 55 gallon tank a month ago and everything is pretty much broken
down. Various fish are in different tanks all through the house, all inhabitants
are doing great in their little vacation homes. My concern is this: The main
tank which just has a lot of my live rock and live sand in it is infested with
tiny little whitish, bluish starfish. I have had a few of these guys from the
beginning but never so many like now. The tank has about 40lbs of live rock in
it, about 4 inches of live sand, lots of brittle stars, macroalgae, etc., but no
fish. I have read some things on these little guys, and I know they supposedly
eat coral, don't have any of that, so it doesn't really matter (but will in the
future), but I just don't want them in there and refuse to kill them. Is there
some fish or such I can get to eat them? Do you know of any damage they may
cause?
<Without a picture, I can offer you a few good guesses. First, I bet the
starfish are harmless. They allegedly eat coral, but you have none and they
still reproduce and thrive, so I think they are probably eating something else.
Secondly, they are reproducing without fish in the tank. Again, it makes me
think they are eating something that the fish would normally eat and compete
against them/starve then down in population or whatever fish you have may eat
some of the starfish. I would not worry about them at this point, but do try to
make a positive identification. Take a look in Julian Sprung's book "The
Invert Guide" and Dr. Shimek's "Key to Identification" found on
his webpage.>
Also, I made my own protein skimmer (countercurrent flow, airstone driven).
Since the filter system is broken down right now, I was thinking about changing
it to Venturi driven. Is this more trouble than it's worth?
<Generally less maintenance than CC air driven models, but far more difficult
to DIY.>
Do these things really run better than with airstones?
<Very debatable. If you are getting good production now, I would be inclined
to keep the current unit.>
I sure go through a lot of airstones and thought it might even be more cost
efficient over time. Whatcha think?
<Airstones are pretty cheap. It would probably take years to recover and
money saved in airstones versus the pump and Venturi valve to run the new DIY
skimmer. Upon rereading, I am not sure you wish to DIY. If not, I would look
through the FAQ's on skimmer selection for various recommendations for various
size tanks and applications.>
Thanks for all the advice, and have a good weekend, Jana
<You are welcome. -Steven Pro>
DIY skimmer plan
Bob... I just attached the attached skimmer diagram
into a reply for a WWM quiz or.
<Got it! A beauty>
Do post/file this on WWM if you like. A simple counter
current skimmer of the old Nilsen style variety.
<Will do so, thank you. Bob F, who suspects you will feel the "old
cheerleader effect" taking a break from WWM (do ask folks if they're aware
of the site... you will be surprised... maybe not).>
Antoine
DIY Skimmer
Hi Anthony.
So very good to hear from your again. Well, I read the FAQs about skimmers and
the pros and cons of the various kinds. In the spirit of responsible reefmanship
and in the tradition of DIY I built a 4" x 36" countercurrent skimmer
that is supplied by the system pump and is aerated with a WISA 200.
<excellent! nice size and hardware too!>
To my surprise, the thing actually works. I am just not exactly sure how much
air to chase through the thing. Since you have mentioned that you are familiar
with these skimmers, would you be so kind as to tell me how to tune the rascal
now that I have it actually skimming, though a bit wet I think. Cheers, Fred.
<my pleasure... with such air driven skimmers (which I feel produce very good
quality skimmate!) it is best to pick one of your variables and keep it
constant... air or water flow. I prefer constant air flow. Use fresh lime wood
airstones and change them consistently (once monthly is in the ballpark) and aim
for maximum aeration/air flow but do not make adjustments to it. The water flow
is what will change perhaps daily (minor adjustments). You will want/need a gate
valve on the outflow side... no other will do (ball valves are too course for
fine adjustment). Hopefully your DIY skimmer has a clear neck... if not,
consider revisiting and adding a long clear neck to it for visual inspection as
you make the occasional changes to water flow and the subsequent change in
water/foam level in the neck. Keep an eye on the water flow and clean pumps,
intakes, impellers (whatever necessary) to keep things running smooth. It
doesn't have to be super fast. Even 400gph on a unit this size would be fine.
And so... with maximum/unchanging aeration from a wood diffuser, the gate valve
will be opened a little bit when the foam is too wet, and closed a little bit
when it is too dry (raises the foam/water level in the neck). The advantage to
such DIY skimmers is that they can produce more and better skimmate with minor
daily adjustments as necessary that only take a moment or two. The only
disadvantage is that they require this little bit of extra work and the monthly
changing of an airstone compared to venturis. I prefer these countercurrent
skimmers to most all others when time allows for maintenance. Best regards,
Anthony>
DIY Protein skimmer
I located a plan for a DIY skimmer, and wonder if you believe it would be
capable of servicing my 120g tank if I plan on having a medium density bio load
eventually ? The relevant link is : www.aquariacentral.com/diy/skimmer3.gif
Thank you in advance Andrew
<yes, my friend. This is a very simple but effective countercurrent skimmer.
It is very inexpensive, sturdy and can be adjusted to produce excellent quality
skimmate reliably. The disadvantages are that is not as attractive (PVC parts)
and some say that it requires more maintenance than most ventures. However, the
monthly changing of an airstone is really no different than the cleaning that
every Venturi gets... and the sometimes daily tweak of the outflow gate valve
keeps skimmate production maximized and keeps you in tune with your system
rather than a Venturi that gets plugged in and ignored. Some modifications to
this design should include a clear PVC "neck" to serve as a sight
glass for convenient monitoring of water level adjustments. Also, the ball valve
on the outflow is unacceptable... a gate valve will serve you much better (fine
control of water level backing up or releasing volume in body chamber which in
turn crucially affects the foam level in the neck. This diagram also lacks an
air inlet... should be positioned for convenience. And lastly, slip unions on
the neck will allow for quick and convenient of neck and collection cup for
weekly cleaning (open gate valve to drop water level conveniently to do this).
Admittedly there is a learning curve on this style skimmer as hard or harder
than any other skimmer. But it will produce skimmate as much or more than any
$300 model with a minor daily adjustment. It all comes down to how much time you
are willing to spend to save time spent on daily maintenance. Admittedly, it is
a crude and simple design. But that doesn't make it bad... just know that you
have options. The opposite end of this skimmer question would be a Euroreef or
Tunze skimmer... extremely low maintenance, very reliable but top shelf prices.
I have enlisted the help of the WWM crew to help me post the diagram from my
book for a simple inexpensive DIY skimmer... do let us know if it doesn't come
through. Best regards, Anthony>
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